Thank you for riding with us on the 43rd Annual Minnesota Ironman Bicycle Ride (MIBR). Let’s hope by now that your socks have dried out and you have gotten back on your bike. This April 26th tour will go down in the books as one of the wettest and toughest events we have ever put on. Many riders who have been a part of the MIBR for decades, said that the 2009 event was the hardest they could remember. Not that we need to remind you, but we had a cold, pouring rain hit our riders around 9:30 am.  At that time there were nearly 3500 riders on the roads.  Some pedaled for the nearest rest stop or shelter and called it a day. Others zipped up their jackets and pedaled on. All of you earned the right to be called a true Ironman or Ironwoman.

We have received many harrowing survival stories from the road.  The rest stops were slammed with cold, shivering riders.  The parking lots were littered with bikes. We went through 800 gallons of Peace coffee while just a fraction of the usual Gatorade was consumed.  The sag buses hauled hundreds of soggy cyclists back to Lakeville. Our medics told us we had several cases of hypothermia but thankfully no serious injuries. And yet, despite the weather, we had hundreds of riders complete their chosen routes. Whether you did the 30 mile, the 65 mile or the 100 mile century (you animals!) you should be very proud. Rejoice in the fact that you will have good bike ride karma for the rest of the summer.

The Minnesota Ironman Bicycle Ride is a storied event with a great history. It was started in 1967 by a group of hardcore cyclists who wanted a challenging season opener event. We are proud to maintain this tradition. The ride continues to be a success due to our dedicated volunteers and cyclists. The 2009 MIBR was, despite the challenges, another great success.

We work hard for nearly six months to make sure that this is the best, most organized bike event any of you will ride for the rest of the year. (All the same, we are probably due for some nicer weather next year, eh?) We will continue to strive to produce a top quality ride and prepare for any conditions that may arise.  We are honored to have you ride with us and we appreciate your support. Thank you!

Our non-profit organization, Hostelling International USA, has managed the MIBR since its inception. We are celebrating our national 75th anniversary this year.  To celebrate, we are hosting a new bike ride at our hostel in Itasca State Park, which we are calling the Tour De Pines. It will be a small, intimate bike tour on August 22nd with an emphasis on having a good time. If your summer schedule permits, please join us.  Have a great cycling season. See you down the road.

Pedals Up,

Jon Ridge
Director, Minnesota Ironman Bicycle Ride