Ten days and counting! Below are additional logistics as we prepare for our adventure.

Each rider is responsible for loading their tent, bags, chair and gear into the gear truck by 9 a.m. every morning. Our gear truck and van will depart for the next overnight town by 9:30 a.m. each morning. Riders who are joining the team along the route need to have their gear loaded by 9 a.m., as well. This will give our drivers time to stock up on supplies, allow drive time to the next overnight town and accommodate riders who leave early. We do not expect the team to ride together as one group due to various skill levels and interests. Depending on the route for the day, riders may start arriving as early as noon and may continue to arrive throughout the afternoon and early evening.

Those who choose to leave early, consider tenting close to the truck and be conscientious of those who choose to leave later in the morning and may be sleeping.

We will be traveling with a 15 passenger van that we will use as a shuttle to town when needed. We expect bikers to bike in inclement weather and not use the van as a sag vehicle for this reason, so be sure to bring rain gear.

Below is a checklist to use while packing to make sure that you have everything you'll need. Local riders may consider packing two bags, one for the first part of the ride (to Indianola). On Tuesday, leave bag #1 at home, and bring bag #2 for the second half of the week.

helmet
cycling gloves
towels and wash cloth
handlebar or seat bag
tent and ground cloth
collapsible camping chair
frame-mounted bicycle pump/air canister set
lightweight sleeping bag and sheet
spare tube, tire tools, patch kit
air mattress or sleeping pad
2 large water bottles
flashlight with fresh batteries
bike lock and cable
clothespins
cycling shorts
medication / Advil
walking shorts
first-aid kit
off-bike shirts
insect, gnat, and tick repellent
cycling shirts
identification
bandannas/buff/ hat
medical insurance card
underwear
camera and batteries
socks
sunscreen & lip balm
off-bike shoes or sandals
zip-lock bags to keep clothes dry
swimwear
rain gear / jacket
foam ear plugs for sleeping
toilet paper
riding shoes
Kleenex packs
money ($25-$40 per day)
rear view mirror
pillow
credit card
toiletries/soap
duffel bag, distinctively labeled or painted
sunglasses
plastic bag or shower cap (to cover your bike seat for overnights)
.... and a bicycle, of course

Check out the Register's packing list too at http://ragbrai.com/index.php/2009/07/08/what-should-i-pack-for-ragbrai/

Tomorrow’s blog will include information and addresses of our overnight hosts. Until then, keep riding for the red and gold!