Team Simpson

More Pictures

2011-12-10T00:30:00.000-08:00

More pictures from 2011: https://picasaweb.google.com/whalendw/RAGBRAI11?authuser=0&authkey=Gv1sRgCKfl4KGdvKWbXA&feat=directlink

If you would like a high resolution copy of any of the pictures, just drop me a line... David

Team Pictures

2011-08-03T20:20:00.000-07:00

I think we captured everyone that made it to the Davenport meeting site between these two pictures. And you have to love the raised hands.

I'll post a link as soon as possible with more pictures and higher resolution images of these three pictures.

Thanks Team Simpson for another great ride!

Signs Along the Way

2011-07-30T08:00:00.001-07:00

I have been thinking about the wonderful new Kent Campus Center that we will soon have at Simpson. Part of the reason it has been so much on my mind right now is that demolition began this week on the old Brenton Student Center. Signs like the one above have also kept me thinking about the exciting new project that will be available for Simpson students next fall.

Neighborhood Friends

2011-07-28T14:41:00.001-07:00

Here you see Anne and Tom '75 Shandley, Cathy Shandley Harris '77, and Bob Shandley '85. The Shandley kids grew up just north of the Simpson campus on C Street. We were glad to have them with us on RAGBRAI this year.

Trustees on the Trail

2011-07-28T07:35:00.000-07:00

Team Simpson was joined on the ride by Simpson trustees Rich Willis '74, Rose Kleyweg Mitchell '77, Fred Hubbell, and David Weesner. Pictured above, Rich Willis, Rose Mitchell, and her husband Jerry '76, all Simpson alums, take a break in Bondurant.

Amy Usher Gregston

2011-07-27T14:57:00.000-07:00

Talk about service from our leaders--Bryan woke up with a red and irritated left eye and next thing we know, Chris had scheduled an appt. with a doctor in Indianola. Found out has an eye infection. Good day into Altoona. Had a fabulous pumpkin bar and cinnamon roll in one of the small towns. Drove to Beth King Coffey's house to have a shower and relaxing day in her AC house. Off to Spaghetti Works dinner and then back to the tent in Altoona.

Top 5 List

2011-07-26T19:22:00.000-07:00

Since I only got to do half the ride this year, I will do half a Top Ten List. What follows would be my Top 5 things on the RAGBRAI Ride 2011:

#5 My friend and c0-rider Shawn breaking out his new expo-purchased gloves for the ride on Sunday morning, only to complain about how he did not get a very good deal. Once, however, he figured out the gloves were on the wrong hands and the padding NOT on his palms . . . 30 miles into the ride . . . it seemed a better purdchase.

#4 All the great hospitality of our hosts on the over night stops . . . including the "all you can eat" pasta special at the United Methodist Church in Carroll and the wonderful host families in Glenwood and Atlantic.

#3 The Dedham Bologna-inspired conversation about bologna and SPAM as staples of many of our childhoods, but realizing, that we have never fed it to our children . . . then repeating again that night.

#2 McQueen leading the entire Bloomers patrons . . . willing or unwilling . . . in a rousing rendition of the wave. Whoooooooo!

#1 The awesome job that the Team Simpson group did in making the ride so much fun and making Team Simpson a great RAGBRAI family . . . especially since my own family bailed on me this year.

I am truly thankful to have been a part of RAGBRAI 2011. Have a great rest of the week.

Bob Krapfl

Overnight in Boone

2011-07-26T13:57:00.000-07:00

We are enjoying wonderful hospitality in the Simpson family with Jerry and Joyce Peterson hosting us at their home in Boone. Also pictured with them above is their son, Jordan, a 2010 Simpson grad who will be starting medical school at the University of Iowa this fall, the Carver College of Medicine.

The Peterson's other son, Grant, also graduated from Simpson, in 2006, and attended medical school at the University of Iowa as well.

As you can see from the photo above, the Petersons have a beautiful back yard that is totally shaded at 2 p.m. I know that we are going to enjoy a very comfortable evening here at their home.

From antiques to high tech

2011-07-26T13:48:00.001-07:00

Iowans are proud of their agricultural heritage and as we have ridden across Iowa, we have been able to enjoy farm machinery from antiques to the latest new equipment. Here you will see a 1926 McCormick Deering tractor that was parked in Pilot Mound and a spanking new John Deere planter spied in Paton that we think had 64 rows (we tried to count them!). Many Iowans have their equipment on display for the enjoyment of the RAGBRAI riders.

Entertainment in Manning on Monday

2011-07-26T08:35:00.000-07:00

Every day on the route one town is designated as the meeting town. It is usually about halfway through the day's route and offers a variety of activities for the RAGBRAI riders. During entertainment in the city park in Manning, Monday's meeting town, one of the featured acts was called "Nuns on the Run," a group that lip synced popular songs with lyrics adapted to their "calling." The group was popular with the riders who offered thunderous applause after each of their numbers.

Day 2

2011-07-25T16:03:00.000-07:00

I made it throughout the second day and the hilly course. I thought the route was horrible-I hate all the hills. One hill after another. Ate a delicious cinnamon roll and a great dinner at the UMC in Carroll. I do love Team Simpson and you all should think of doing Ragbrai with us some year.

Day Two

2011-07-25T09:03:00.001-07:00

It wouldn't be possible for us to enjoy RAGBRAI without wonderful overnight hosts. Last night we were able to stay at the home of Bob '59 and Judy Camblin in Atlantic. They had a great camping spot for us across the street from their house. Picture above, Hal '57 and Greta '57 Bryan talk with Bob Camblin '59 about their days at Simpson College.

Day One

2011-07-25T08:51:00.000-07:00

One of the big attractions on day one was the opportunity to have your picture taken with the World's Biggest Bicycle in Lewis, Iowa. This was a project for fifth graders at Griswold Community School to help raise funds for a field trip. The bicycle was created by Duane Weirich and is 32 feet long and 16 feet tall with 12-foot-wide wheels.

I was able to enjoy the spot with my son-in-law, Jeff Crowson, of St. Louis, Missouri.

RAGBRAI 2011 – Team Simpson gets ready to head out

2011-07-25T08:47:00.000-07:00

Team Simpson gathers at the home of Mike '91 and Julie Godbout in Glenwood, Iowa, eager to start the team's third RAGBRAI. A rain shower kept us from immediately unloading our tents and setting up camp, but we were fortunate that Mike and Julie had a great garage for us to put our gear before we got started.

Friends in High Places

2011-07-25T08:32:00.000-07:00

Officer John Westering, parent of current student, Erin Westering '13 cheered Team Simpson on while he worked an intersection outside Lewis. The Westerings reside in Atlantic.

Let the fun begin!

2011-07-21T12:51:00.000-07:00

Jenny Irwin mentioned today she saw 1Million Spokes this week- the documentary about RAGBRAI. She was scouring the movie for Team Simpson jerseys and right at the end of the movie at the dipsite, she walked by the camera sporting hers. Coincidence? I think not.

To get you in the mood, try searching RAGBRAI on YouTube.

Put my tent up last night to air out. Three ten year olds said "Cool! Can we sleep in it tonight?" Because they looked so darn cute, I broke my no-sleepovers-when-I-have-to-work-the-next-day rule just this once. I settled them in playing cards by the lantern's light, sure they would be asleep by 11. At 4 a.m., I investigated a strange noise and found my son in the dark, in the kitchen, arms full of various foods. "Hi mom!" Not sure he learned a lesson... but I did.

See you tomorrow!

Leslie

Simpson Jersey on the Beach

2011-07-21T06:53:00.000-07:00

You never know where a Simpson biking jersey will show up! Jason Luedtke '10 is pictured wearing his 2011 Team Simpson jersey while training for RAGBRAI near Rodanthe, NC in the outer banks area.

2011-06-30T14:45:00.000-07:00

Greetings Team! I've seen rookie rider Beth King Coffey zipping past my house all spring so am confident she will make Team A, although I know many of her classmates prefer a more leisurely pace with targeted stops and they will encourage her to slow down and enjoy the "scenery". Jenny Palmer Irwin sometimes answers her cell phone from remote trails, so I know she is training, as well. Rest assured that Bob and I have been lifting weights in preparation for hoisting your bags up to the Ryder truck. As you pack, remember the cardinal rule- no bags bigger than me. See you soon! -Leslie Midget Held, driver/chauffuer extraordinaire.

Link to Team Simpson

2011-06-19T19:10:00.000-07:00

Like a well-oiled chain the days almost silently tick by, each revolution of our pedals brings us one day closer to RAGBRAI XXXIX. In 34 days (or just under 5 short weeks) we will begin our two-wheel trek across Iowa together. Thanks to the hard work of Chris Goodale, Aaron Page, Leslie Held and Bob Lane – just four of the links in a chain that will make sure your personal efforts will continue to propel you forward – most of the organizing details are done. While we focus on things like gathering the needed snacks and beverages, your pre-RAGBRAI focus should be seat time on the bike and preparing and packing your gear.

This past weekend, my husband and I biked to the Des Moines Farmer’s Market on a training ride. I couldn’t help but marvel at the number of cycling friends we came across quite unexpectedly. After two friends spontaneously joined us for the entire return trip home it dawned on me that other riders might benefit from connecting with other cycling enthusiasts. While we don’t expect to try and coordinate a specific event like a team training ride we will provide this blog as a way to ‘link’ our team virtually before the start of RAGBRAI. Anyone is welcome – encouraged, in fact – to post your training ride, ask a biking question or even just share a funny biking story. Think of a post as a link in a chain – with each virtual link we’ll make the chain that is Team Simpson. Our rider list and their home towns are listed on the Team Simpson web site. As you can see we not only have riders in the numerous communities close to campus but Team Simpson also has riders from many states across the country.

Whether your chain is already slicked down with a state-of-the-art synthetic or slightly rusty from a lack of use I encourage you to check out our packing list to help you prepare. I have found RAGBRAI’s training blog to be helpful and their 15 week training plan to be an informative benchmark by which to judge your own training. RAGBRAI’s main blog always has new information, including daily posts on recent route inspection rides. The BikeIowa web site is a great place to find local rides and cycling news. The Des Moines bike collective publishes a weekly ride list that some Team Simpson members may be able to join and they also publish a comprehensive listing of central Iowa bike trail maps as well.

Since we also have many Team Simpson riders from outside the central Iowa area there is also the cycling blog from Cycling Magazine. My favorite is a GPS mapping blog called All Over the Map. I hope to continue cycling for years and All Over The Map lets me dream of cycling in other states. (Hey, team members from California – the blog entry on May 17th of mapping California could be particularly helpful.)

Do you have a ‘link’ that’s been particularly helpful? Share it. Need more information or concerned about a particular detail? Don’t be afraid to ask. Hopefully we’ll continue to add links to the Team Simpson chain. After all, it’s hard to get anywhere on a bike without a chain. Be safe on your training rides and keep the rubber on the road.

Kelley

This week’s cool cycling resource:

The Des Moines bike collective advocates for safe cycling in Des Moines and bike trail expansion. One of their more creative endeavors is a refurbished bike program. They offer low cost bikes for sale that have been donated to the program and refurbished. This may be the perfect option for a person looking for an inexpensive way to get into cycling.

2010-08-19T06:26:00.002-07:00

Rebecca Rees, Kelli Juhl, and Angie Schultz-Whelan

2010-08-19T06:26:00.001-07:00

Steve Ellis

2010-08-19T06:23:00.001-07:00

Ryan Goodrich, Matt Olson, and John Mathias

2010-08-19T06:23:00.000-07:00

Shari and Joseph Van Luchen

More 2010 Photos

2010-08-19T06:20:00.001-07:00

Theresa and Rex Hale

Late, but we always finish!

2010-08-16T20:06:00.000-07:00

A few of us were late arriving in Dubuque. After stopping for a team photo, we made it to the river!

I have a few snapshots available at: http://picasaweb.google.com/whalendw/RAGBRAI10?authkey=Gv1sRgCKrayMmB84axUg&feat=directlink

And 2009 photos at: http://picasaweb.google.com/whalendw/RAGBRAI09?authkey=Gv1sRgCJqCwp2O5ZS2hwE&feat=directlink

Thank you Team Simpson for another great RAGBRAI ride!

It Would Not Have Been Possible Without...

2010-08-03T13:07:00.001-07:00

July 31 - Mile 505

As we prepared for our trip back to Indianola and to our normal routines, I sensed that everyone felt a real debt of gratitude to all of those who made this year's RAGBRAI most enjoyable for everyone on Team Simpson. Special thanks go to Co-Captains Kelley Bradder and Chris Goodale who took care of the many details necessary for a smooth week of riding. It takes a lot of planning and a lot of follow up with team members to assure that the week goes as planned. Thanks as well to Bob Lane, vice president for advancement, who drove our truck and provided transportation all week. Loading and unloading all of our gear every day after traveling between the overnight towns is not a job without significant challenges. As always he did it with a positive attitude and with enthusiasm. Leslie Held, director of alumni relations, was with us for the first part of the week and also helped out greatly with our planning and in helping to arrange our overnight hosts. Finally, special appreciation goes to Jeff Wagner, director of campus services, for giving up two weekend days to drive a truck with our bicycles - first to the starting point to drop them off and again on the final day to bring our gear back to Indianola. Without all of their efforts, it just would not have been possible to have such a great week.
John Byrd

Team Simpson in Dubuque

2010-08-03T12:55:00.000-07:00

July 31 - Mile 501

Team Simpson riders paused at Clarke College for a photo after challenging Potter Hill and before proceeding on to the riverfront in Dubuque. Everyone agreed that Potter Hill was steeper and longer than any they had attempted before. A number of Team Simpson riders were able to join the 30% or so of all riders who made it all the way up the hill without walking. The final three miles from Clarke College are all downhill and will be a welcome respite from the hills leading into Dubuque. Then it's on to the waterfront to dip our front tires in the Mississippi River to ceremonially complete thisi year's RAGBRAI.

John Byrd

On the Way to Dubuque

2010-08-03T12:44:00.001-07:00

July 31 - Mile 446.7

Beverly O'Regan Thiele (left) and David and Stacy Whipple (right) prepare for the final day's ride of RAGBRAI 2010. Beverly has proven on this ride that she is more than a great singer (she completed the lead role in the Des Moines Metro Opera's production of "Susanna" just prior to RAGBRAI)! She proved that she is also a great cyclist. Stacy Whipple returned for her second year on Team Simpson and was joined by her husband, David, who has also proven to be a very strong cyclist. The prior day's rain has disappeared and we are looking forward to a partly cloudy ride to Dubuque with sunny skies returning later in the day.

Rain, Rain Go Away

2010-07-30T18:43:00.000-07:00

July 30 - Mile 446.7

Team Simpson left Waterloo behind this morning, but not the water. On what turned out to be one of the most difficult rides of the week, we were treated to riding through four hours of rain and scattered thunderstorms. With typical Iowa hospitality, there were numerous opportunities along the way to seek shelter - in garages, farm sheds, and vendor tents - but in the end we were forced to complete the 70 miles to Manchester in the rain. As might be expected, more riders chose to use the sag wagons, probably out of a desire not to ride on a most miserable day. One consequence of riding in the rain seems to be a higher incidence of flat tires and we saw many of them on the route today. As another consequence, I caught a piece of road grit in one of my eyes and eventually southt teatment at the University of Iowa emergency trailer. It turned out to be very minor but with all of the water being thrown up from bikes up front, it could be expected that some of it would find its way into your eyes. Fortunately the skies cleared once we arrived in Manchester and we have been treated to an absolutely delightful evening. This is our last night on RAGBRAI and we are very fortunate to be hosted by the Manchester United Methodist Church. Pastor Roger Henry has provided indoor accommodations so we will not have to pitch our tents on this last overnight. Everyone is looking forward to tomorrow's 47.5 mile ride into Dubuque and to taking on what is now the famous Potter Hill with a mile-long climb at a 6% grade. I heard that some are estimating that as many as half of the riders will need to walk their bikes up that long and very steep hill.

John Byrd

We Have Reached Our Waterloo

2010-07-30T06:09:00.000-07:00

July 29 - Waterloo - Mile 387

Several members of Team Simpson seemed to be a bit tired today as we made the 90 mile trip from Charles City to Waterloo. Along the way I had the opportunity to meet the parents of Cory Dawson, class of 2010, who reported that Cory is happily working as an underwriter at Wells Fargo. I also ran into Trevor Sharp '08 who has just started new responsibilities at Target Distribution Center in Cedar Falls. Today we started with breakfast at Hy-Vee in Charles City and had lunch at Tender Tom's along the way. They have a great turkey tenderloin sandwich. Unfortunately we were very close to a bad accident which appeared to involve multiple cyclists and the route was closed for a period of time as they called a Life Flight helicopter which took off with at least one of the injured riders. I know that everyone on Team Simpson hopes that the injured riders make a quick recovery. We are camped at the home of Paul Pechacek '85 (pictured with his daughters). We were warmly welcomed by Paul and his daughters, Shelley Pechacek (in the white shirt) and Kim Higgins. Kim attended Simpson in the late 80s before moving on to complete a nursing degree. We are treated to a huge back yard and as usual our hosts have gone out of their way to make us feel very, very welcome. With only two more riding days in front of us I think we are all feeling a bit sad that this year's adventure on RAGBRAI is almost over, but we certainly look forward to two more days and to our overnight in Manchester tomorrow evening.

John Byrd

Pictures from Michelle

2010-07-29T13:46:00.001-07:00

Click here to view these pictures larger

RIDER UP!

2010-07-29T13:18:00.000-07:00

I am a big believer in biking karma. What goes around, comes around. This belief was confirmed while riding in this year's RAGBRAI. As anyone who has ridden RAGBRAI knows, there are always riders that are going against the traffic - RIDER UP! is the accompanying cry. I always wondered why these people did it.

I finally was voicing my frustration at having to move over to the side for another RIDER UP! and wondering aloud to another rider why these people have to keep going backwards. Do they just like being the center of attention? Do they really need to add to the ride mileage totals? What smug satisfaction could they possibly get out of this?

A few miles later, I had a spoke break on my back tire. I had never had this happen before and did not realize how drastically it effected your tire. I was five miles from the previous town and 15 miles from the next town. I got the bike moving again with the help of a teammate and, yep, you guessed it, took off against the traffic to the mechanics in Varina. Five miles on a wobbly tire against the traffic was a bit disconcerting to say the least. RIDER UP!!

So I learned a lesson. There are lots of reason to have to go against the traffic. Not everyone is seeking attention. After this experience, I looked at the riders thinking maybe they had mechanical problems or needed to go back to help a spouse/friend/teammate. I was more humble and more understanding. In my book, a valuable karmic lesson.

A lesson that many of the riders who had less friendly things to say than RIDER UP! will hopefully learn some day. And for the guy who ran me and my wobbly tire off the road on to the gravel because he refused to slow down or look up, I shudder at the lesson he might learn . . . or more likely he does not believe in karma.

Thank you so much to all of the folks who made Team Simpson so much fun to ride with. My brothers and I had a great ride and an even greater time being with such a wonderful team. I look forward to wearing my Team Simpson colors again next year!

Bob Krapfl

From Charles City

2010-07-29T11:41:00.000-07:00

July 28

Team Simpson Co-Captain Kelley Bradder visits with one of our Charles City hosts, Roger Ramthum.

Charge 'Em Up!

2010-07-29T11:39:00.000-07:00

July 28

Team Simpson Co-Captain Chris Goodale mans a table of electronic devices. Outlets are at a premium at every overnight stop as team members are looking for places to charge their cell phones and Blackberries for the next day!

Enjoying Chuck Town

2010-07-29T11:35:00.000-07:00

July 28 - Mile 297.5

Team Simpson enjoyed a 57-mile ride to Charles City today. We saw a number of interesting sights along the way, including an elephant ride and a trapeze set up above a pool. We learned later that State Troopers shut down the trapeze in the pool due to some unsavory activity! Once again we were warmly welcomed by our hosts. Roger and Sue Ramthun and their son, Matt '02, were on hand to extend warm hospitality to everyone in our group. We enjoyed the park-like setting of their back yard and all of the special touches they added to make our stay most welcoming and comfortable. Pictured here is our host Roger Ramthun with Charlie Fiedler, Scott McQueen, and Jeff McQueen.

John Byrd

Lunch on the Road

2010-07-29T11:28:00.000-07:00

July 28 - Mile 275

Fred Hubbell, Chair of the Simpson College Board of Trustees, and his brother Mike enjoy food from one of the terrific vendors that are on the route every day. Pastafari serves great pasta in a number of varieties. This particular morning we ate a couple of slices of French toast and sausage for breakfast, followed 45 minutes later by lunch of penne pasta with marinara sauce.

John Byrd

More Fun in Clear Lake

2010-07-29T11:24:00.000-07:00

July 27

Team Simpson riders Bryan '87 and Amy '87 Gregston of Arvada, Colorado enjoyed circulating at the ice cream social at the home of Tony and Angie '89 Sly in Clear Lake.

Alumni Reception

2010-07-29T11:19:00.000-07:00

July 27

Team Simpson was joined by a number of alums at the home of Tony and Angie '89 Sly in Clear Lake, pictured here. Everyone enjoyed the ice cream social and the beautiful lakeside scenery at our hosts' cabin. Some of the riders took a dip in Clear Lake before dinner. Several of us had the unexpected pleasure of sleeping in air-conditioned comfort inside the Sly home. It was even more appreciated when a strong band of thunderstorms rumbled through around 2 a.m. Those who slept outside dealt with wet tents and wet gear in the morning. Many thanks to Tony and Angie and their daughters for a wonderful evening in Clear Lake.

John Byrd

I Missed It!

2010-07-29T11:15:00.000-07:00

July 27

I learned after leaving Britt today that Jon and Judy Swenson, their daughter Molly who is a junior at Simpson, and their son Tyler who will graduate from Simpson in August, had prepared a wonderful sign welcoming Team Simpson to town. Thanks to the Swensons for the warm welcome. Sorry I missed you and the sign!

John Byrd

Flying the team colors

2010-07-28T08:04:00.000-07:00

Team Simpson pulled on red and gold jerseys for Tuesday's 60-mile ride from Algona to Clear Lake. State troopers saluted the college as team members rolled through intersections. Students and alumni greeted team riders in pass-through towns. (One enthusiastic lady noticed the maple leaves on the sleeves and welcomed all the Canadians to town.) And Des Moines Register photographer Andrea Melendez captured team members Fred Hubbell, John Byrd and Dave Enzler on the ride. The original shot is here.
-- Mike Krapfl

An Alum in Britt

2010-07-27T08:44:00.000-07:00

July 27 - Britt, Iowa

I ran into Jeff Nielsen, pictured here, on my stop in Britt this morning. Jeff graduated from Britt High School and later from Simpson College in 1984. Jeff told me that he holds the high school record for the 100 meter dash in Class 2A (10.84). Jeff didn't tell me, but I have learned that he also holds the state record of 21.78 for the 200 meter dash in Class 2A - and both of those records still stand! I also learned that among his other accomplishments, Jeff set Simpson school records in the 100 meter dash and in the 4 x 400 meter relay. It is such fun to encounter Simpson alums along the route. Hopefully I will meet a lot more before this day is over. We are all wearing our Simpson jerseys, the visibility of which helps us to make these fun connections. Looking forward to the alumni gathering late this afternoon in Clear Lake.

John Byrd

Fueled by Iowa Hospitality

2010-07-27T07:46:00.000-07:00

July 27 - Mile 176.5

We often think of homemade pies, Iowa chops, bratwurst, and all manner of other great food as the fuel that keeps riders going across Iowa. It is actually the Iowa hospitality, though, that makes all of this work. I met a man yesterday in Pocahontas and when I asked him how many years he had participated in RAGBRAI, he told me, "Sixteen." When I asked him what kept him coming back year after year, he told me it was Iowa hospitality. We certainly experienced some of that hospitality last night as we camped at the home of Dan and Darla Vonnahme (pictured here). The Vonnahmes set up extra showers for us in their back yard to accommodate our large group and warmly welcomed us into their home. True hospitality is best expressed when freely and sincerely given, as is particularly the case with the Vonnahmes. They are not directly connected to Simpson. Co-captain Chris Goodale describes them as "friends of Simpson who are connected by a dotted line." Dan and Darla's connection to the college is that their grown daughter is a friend of a Simpson alumna. Yet they opened their home to 50+ people traipsing in and out for showers and a change of clothes and made all of them feel right at home. This is a story that is replicated over and over again in every one of the overnight towns. So to all of the overnight hosts who gladly give up their homes, we say thank you for helping to make RAGBRAI the special event that keeps more than 10,000 riders from all over the country and all over the world coming back year after year.

John Byrd

In the Clover in Plover

2010-07-26T11:31:00.000-07:00

July 26 - 12:30 p.m.

Just arrived in Plover for the second time today as part of the 100-mile loop and came through this very nice park. On the first time through I had a chance to meet up with Werner Kolln, Professor of Chemistry and Physics at Simpson. Werner joined the ride today and will be with us again tomorrow. It is great to have him on Team Simpson.

John Byrd

Flat Tire

2010-07-26T11:26:00.000-07:00

July 26 - Mile 115.46

Inevitably riders run into problems on the ride across Iowa. Dave Enzler stops to fix a flat tire outside of Pocahontas, Iowa. These roadside repairs are common and he was on his way in just a few minutes.

Century Ride Ahead

2010-07-26T08:16:00.000-07:00

July 26 - Mile 75.5

Team Simpson is ready to take off for the ride from Storm Lake to Algona. For those looking for a little something extra, today is the day for the Karras Loop, which provides the opportunity to ride 100+ miles in one day. Some of the Simpson riders are planning to make the effort to go the extra miles. Special thanks go to Stan and Stephanie Quick, both from the Simpson Class of 1956 (pictured here with me) for being absolutely wonderful overnight hosts to Team Simpson. They have a beautiful home with a large yard overlooking Storm Lake. It was very close to all of the venues and provided an absolutely perfect setting for our overnight in Storm Lake.

John Byrd

Early Showers

2010-07-26T08:11:00.001-07:00

July 25 - 2 a.m.

Team Simpson showered early when the sprinkler system on the athletic field at Morningside came on at 2:00 this morning. Those fortunate enough to have rain flies on their tents had protection from the "heavy rain." For those less fortunate, their gear got a little damp, to say the least. But this is RAGBRAI, so everyone takes these little setbacks in stride. We all got up the next morning, got our gear in shape, and were happily on our way on the first leg of this year's ride.
John Byrd

Ready to Start

2010-07-26T07:59:00.000-07:00

July 24 - Mile 0.0

Team Simpson arrived on the campus of Morningside College about 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 24. We were met by Gene Ambroson, Alumni Director at Morningside (pictured at left with Kelley Bradder and Bob Lane of Simpson).

Gene provided directions to our camping site, furnished everyone with a map of the area showing locations of all of the shopping and RAGBRAI activities, and even provided the team with three bags of popcorn. Special thanks go out to President John Reynders along with everyone at Morningside who has been so accommodating to this large crowd of RAGBRAI riders.

In short order we were able to get our tents up and most of us made it into the downtown area for the food boths and entertainment. We look forward to getting started tomorrow on what we hope will be a great ride across Iowa.

John Byrd

What does it take to get us to Sioux City?

2010-07-23T08:19:00.000-07:00

A charter bus, a van and 2 moving trucks to be exact. Just a little over 24 hours to go and we are just about ready on this end. Looking forward to my first RAGBRAI, seeing old friends and meeting new. Kudos to Bob, Kelley & Chris on the countless hours of organizing this small army! Gatorade, water, first aid kit, directions, maps, countless lists, koozies, tents and chairs. Oh yeah- and the bikes.

Limits on baggage

2010-07-22T11:52:00.000-07:00

A few Team Simpson riders have asked if there are any limit on the number of items or bags they can bring. Team Simpson does not have a limit on the number of bags we will transport. We have ample space to accommodate everyone's gear. Exercise reasonability as you are packing, for your own convenience, as bags seem to get heavier after a full day of biking.

We prefer gear to be packed in soft sided duffels or bags, as we use our bags to secure and stabilize our bikes during transportation.

Happy packing, and we will see you on Saturday!

Welcome to Team Simpson's Blog

2010-07-19T12:54:00.000-07:00

Each of you is invited to join President Byrd in blogging about your experience on RAGBRAI by using our Team Simpson blog. We will also be tweeting, so you can follow along @SimpsonRagbrai

While there are just a few days left before the start of RAGBRAI, here are a few last minute considerations...

Daily Routine and Logistics:

Each rider is responsible for packing their tent, bags, chair and gear and delivering them to 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. If you leave early, please leave your gear near the truck to be loaded.

There will be snacks and beverages available for you in the morning and when you arrive at our overnight hosts. Each overnight hosts have different accommodations for us. After arriving at our overnight host, check in with our drivers, and they will be able to direct you to the shower and bathroom facilities, and where the appropriate areas are to pitch your tent.

Make sure to pack a camp chair. Team Simpson riders gather and share adventures of the day and Simpson experiences from the past.

We will be traveling with a passenger van that we will use as a shuttle to town when needed. If our overnight hosts are more than walking distance from the official RAGBRAI activities, we will shuttle riders back and forth as needed. We expect bikers to bike in inclement weather and not use the van as a sag vehicle, so be sure to bring rain gear.

If you are from central Iowa, many of your training rides may have been spent dodging rain drops. It may be hard to avoid the rain on RAGBRAI, so be sure to pack a small zip lock bag to protect your electronics (cell phone, camera) on and off the bike.

Lastly, be sure to check over your bike before you leave. How many miles are on your tires? Tires should be replaced on a regular schedule. When is the last time your chain was oiled?

We are excited to begin our adventure together, and add memories to our Simpson experiences.

Epilogue

2009-07-27T09:41:00.000-07:00

All of us on Team Simpson owe a huge thank you to Kelley Bradder, Bob Lane, (both pictured) and Chris Goodale for their roles in organizing and supporting our week-long ride. They were up every morning preparing the camp for our departure, and then Kelley and Bob packed up all of our belongings and moved on to the next site to set up for our arrival. In many ways, all of us who were riding RAGBRAI had the easier job every day. Many thanks to Kelley, Bob, and Chris for organizing and making the ride much more memorable and enjoyable than it would have been without their hard work, support, and encouragement.

John Byrd

Mile 491

2009-07-27T09:20:00.000-07:00

Jason '97 and Jacki Harrison Askelson'97 joined the rest of Team Simpson in dipping their front tires in the Mississippi River. The RAGBRAI tradition is to dip your back tire in the Missouri River at the beginning of the ride and your front tire in the Mississippi at the end.

After dipping our tires, we were hosted by Robert and Elizabeth Whalen, parents of Team Simpson member David Whalen. As has been our experience all across the state, the Whalen's were generous with their hospitality and provided the team with great refreshments before we headed home. The ride back to Indianola was quiet as we recovered from the week-long ride, reflected on our many experiences, and contemplated the opportunity for another RAGBRAI in 2010.

John Byrd

Mile 488

2009-07-26T16:31:00.000-07:00

Team Simpson gathers for one last group photo before heading into Burlington. It has been an absolutely fantastic week to ride, and as we finish, it provides for a most bittersweet moment. There is a great sense of accomplishment among everyone who has ridden this week, but at the same time it is hard to see RAGBRAI come to an end for 2009. We have made so many great friends and experienced the warm hospitality of so many Iowans as we crossed the state. It has been exciting, challenging, and rewarding - all in all, an adventure that we will all long remember.

John Byrd

Mile 446

2009-07-26T16:27:00.000-07:00

The Chair of Simpson's Board of Trustees, Fred Hubbell, and his brother, Mike, prepare to lead the way on the final day's ride into Burlington. It has been great having Fred and Mike as members of Team Simpson for the entire week.

Once again, we were spoiled by our overnight hosts. In Mount Pleasant, Barb Gibson Kennedy '75 and her husband, Doug, extended a warm welcome to Team Simpson at their beautiful, historic home just two blocks from the town square. We camped under the canopy of the large trees in their yard and enjoyed the fresh-baked treats that Barb prepared for the team. The lemon bars really tasted great after a hard day's ride.

Today's ride promises to be an easy one with sunshine and a westerly wind on our ride east, all the ingredients for a great day of riding.

John Byrd

Mile 373

2009-07-24T08:12:00.000-07:00

Cinnamon rolls at last! Simpson hosts Mary Datisman Frisbie '64 and Morris Frisbie '65 (pictured, right) provided one of the highlights of our trip when they prepared homemade cinnamon rolls as part of a hearty breakfast this morning. We also enjoyed sausage, eggs, muffins, and fresh fruit - a wonderful way to start the day.

Mary and Morris were joined in welcoming Team Simpson to Ottumwa by their neighbors, Bill and Mary Lee Hansen and Jack and Sue Kirk. Altogether they provided a wonderful campsite and great fellowship during the evening. Many thanks to all of them for a most enjoyable visit to Ottumwa.

It was a great day to ride on Thursday. When we arrived in Ottumwa, most of us had taken the Karras Loop around Lake Rathbun which made for a day's ride of 107 miles. Our only disappointment of the day was when John Bolen's recumbent bicycle broke down, preventing him from being able to finish the ride.

We are looking forward to Friday's ride, our last long day before a short ride into our final destination of Burlington on Saturday.

John Byrd

Mile 360

2009-07-23T13:36:00.001-07:00

A typical scene, this one in Blakesburg, of hundreds of bicycles lined up as riders take a break to rest and seek refreshment.

Mile 330

2009-07-23T11:42:00.000-07:00

I had a chance to meet up with Chris Goodale (he and I pictured here) around noon to enjoy a bite to eat before continuing today's ride. We are in Moravia, Iowa, which has been very important to Simpson College over the years. It is the home of Simpson trustee Mary Rose Main '53, honorary life trustee Dick Smith '53 and his sister, Maxine Weinman '49, and Laurie Dowd Gowdy '89, who was an all-American softball player at Simpson.

It has been a beautiful day. We have finished the Karras Loop which will allow us to get 100 miles in today. Right now we're at just about mile 70 for the day. The sun is out, it's heating up, and as I post this, I see Professor Steve Rose walking up to join us. Everything is going great and we look forward to getting to Ottumwa later today.

John Byrd

Mile 262

2009-07-23T06:59:00.001-07:00

Team Simpson prepares for another day on the road as Bob Lane loads the equipment truck.

We have been fortunate to have Kelley Bradder and Bob serve as our very capable support team. Every day as we break camp they load the gear, drive to our next overnight destination, unload, and have everything ready for us when we arrive. Thunderstorms rolled in overnight, but we woke to a beautiful blue sky and it looks like it will be a perfect day to ride to Ottumwa. Several members of the team have indicated they will probably ride the 100 mile loop today.

John Byrd

The evening of Day 4

2009-07-23T06:28:00.000-07:00

As usual we had a lovely back yard in which to pitch our tents. We spent a wonderful evening sitting around and sharing stories of the day's ride. It has been a great week. Many of us are already beginning to regret that there are only three days left.

We were grateful to be hosted on our overnight in Chariton by Darrin Gregory '07 and Andy Hansen '08. They welcomed Team Simpson warmly and the cookies and brownies were especially appreciated!

John Byrd

Day 4

2009-07-23T06:24:00.000-07:00

Dave Enzler takes a mid-day break on the ride to Chariton, Iowa.

There were many opportunities to stop and take advantage of all of the attractions in the pass-through towns today. There was a lot of energy in Milo and Lacona especially. Everyone on RAGBRAI seemed to be grateful to have more time to spend on an especially beautiful day on a shorter route.

John Byrd

Mile 215

2009-07-22T11:27:00.000-07:00

Team Simpson riders endured a cold, windy, wet, and hilly day yesterday riding 77 miles into Indianola. Just as the first Simpson riders were arriving, the sun broke out in Indianola and provided for a glorious evening of activities all over the Simpson campus, around the square, and all over town. I know that all of us felt a great deal of pride with the way Indianola and Simpson College handled the RAGBRAI riders. We received many positive comments about the beauty of the Simpson campus and about the hospitality of everyone in Indianola. Many thanks to everyone who made the evening in Indianola what will no doubt be the best reception on this year's ride. We are riding to Chariton today. We have a beautiful, sunny day and look forward to a much more pleasant ride.

John Byrd

Mile 139

2009-07-21T05:23:00.000-07:00

Ryan Rehmeier breaks down his tent in preparation for the third day of riding in RAGBRAI.

Two myths were broken yesterday - Iowa is not flat and it is not always hot in July! It was a cool, damp day, but everyone had a very good ride with many small towns to go through. We all experienced the warm Iowa hospitality. We were hosted last night by the Bax family. They were very gracious hosts and we enjoyed spending time with them. Courtney Bax will be a senior student in biochemistry at Simpson this fall. Everyone has their Simpson jerseys on today and we look forward to the 77-mile ride and the opportunity to visit with our friends in Indianola.

John Byrd

Mile 76.5

2009-07-20T06:45:00.000-07:00

Dave Enzler, Burton Kirkwood, (pictured) and I stopped for breakfast in Stanton, Iowa at Evangelical Covenant Church, one of many places to eat along the way. Unfortunately they are out of cinnamon rolls, though, so we're moving ahead!

John Byrd

Mile 63

2009-07-20T05:55:00.000-07:00

Simpson Registrar John Bolen enjoys a quick breakfast before heading out for Day Two. Team Simpson was hosted overnight by Simpson alum Deanna Viner Archer '62, whose hospitality was just fantastic. We enjoyed camping at her hilltop house out in the Iowa countryside. Campers were a little slower getting out of their tents this morning before taking on today's 71-mile ride. Everyone is doing well and we look forward to completing today's hilly route.

John Byrd

Mile Zero

2009-07-20T05:47:00.000-07:00

Ben Fisher and Team Simpson get ready to depart from Council Bluffs to begin RAGBRAI 2009. Excitement has been building since we left Indianola yesterday, and as we break camp I know everyone is anxious to get started.

Thanks to Charlie Schilling '89 and Kim McMartin Schilling '90 for hosting Team Simpson last night at the Mid-America Center. The accommodations were superb and we enjoyed their warm hospitality. We have a great day, perfect weather, and it looks to offer absolutely perfect riding conditions. It's been great to see so many alums come back for the event with over 50 riders participating on Team Simpson. We look forward to connecting with old friends and making new ones.

John Byrd

Flaunting the Red and Gold into Burlington!

2009-07-15T06:49:00.001-07:00

Saturday, July 25, will be the conclusion of our adventure together and the end of RAGBRAI XXXVII. Team Simpson will gather in West Burlington at 11:30 a.m. on the corner of South Broadway Street and Division Street. Together, wearing our Simpson College jerseys, we will ride the last 3.2 miles through Burlington to the tire dipping site. There you are free to dip your tire, take victory pictures, get souvenirs and complete other activities as you wish.

The location where we will pack the bike truck and depart is the home of Robert and Elizabeth Whalen, who are the parents of Simpson Team member Dave Whalen ’85. They live 1.5 miles from the dip site at:

527 S. Gunnison Street
Burlington, IA.

Your daily map for Day 7 will have directions to both the dip site and then to the Whalen’s. Please have your bikes at the Whalen’s by 1 p.m. It will take us some time to pack the bikes but we will depart as soon as we can. We anticipate being back to Indianola between 5 – 7 p.m.

The last minute details are being arranged, and Saturday is just around the corner. We can’t wait to begin!

Gathering supplies for Team Simpson's 500 miles trek across Iowa

Visiting Simpson College and Indianola

2009-07-15T06:25:00.000-07:00

Some of our riders will be staying in their own homes and not in Simpson College facilities on Tuesday night. Because of the dorm setting, we will not set up the canopy and chairs, as we would in other overnight locations. Instead, we hope you will participate in the activities we have planned on campus.

The gear truck will be parked in the Simpson College Campus Service and Goodwill parking lot on the corner of Clinton and Howard Streets (the old Hy-Vee parking lot). The gear truck will be unlocked for easy access. As riders arrive in Indianola and get their gear, we ask that you close the back door when you depart.

Riders who are staying on campus, will be staying in the Station Square Apartments, on the corner of Detroit and Howard Streets, directly across the street from where the gear truck will be parked. Check-in and check-out procedures will be in your rider packet that you will get on Saturday (or when you join the ride).

Like other days, gear will need to be in the gear truck by 9:00 am on Wednesday morning.

Below are the Tuesday events that have been planned to welcome RAGBRAI to Simpson College.

STOP BY the Simpson Welcome Center on C Street in front of Cowles Athletic Center anytime Tuesday from 8 a.m.–5 p.m. We’ll have the latest info on campus events, showers and all things Simpson. Be sure to discover our rich 150 year history through a self-guided tour or let one of our students show you around! Meet Simpson College President John Byrd from 3–5 p.m. (if you miss him, just look for him on the ride as a member of TEAM SIMPSON.) Stop by for free ice water, tours and a Simpson reflective Spokestix.

GRAB A CUP O’ JOE WHILE YOU SURF at our Internet Café. Open Tuesday 8 a.m.–8 p.m. & Wednesday 8 a.m.–noon in Dirlam Lounge, Smith Chapel. Starting at 5a.m. Wednesday, watch for our golf cart roaming the campgrounds for coffee, newspapers & other necessities to kick-start your day.

TWITTER AWAY in our computer labs with free web access. Labs are located in Carver Science Hall & will be open Tuesday from 8 a.m.–8 p.m.

CATCH UP with the world at Dunn Library – find TVs, web access, newspapers & magazines. Enjoy extended hours Tuesday from 8 a.m.–midnight. Wednesday open at 8 a.m. A TV can also be found in Brenton Student Center and Dirlam Lounge.

GET A BITE at one of our three concessions stands open from 9:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m. on Tuesday and 5 a.m.–noon on Wednesday. Locations include Bill Buxton Football Stadium, McBride Baseball Field and the Simpson Softball Field. Items include baked potato bar, walking tacos, smoothies and assorted beverages. Morning fare will boast muffins, fruit and coffee.

LOOK SMART in a t-shirt from the Simpson College Bookstore. Open 9 a.m.-7 p.m. on Tuesday. Be sure to pick up a 10% off coupon at the Simpson Welcome Center.

GOT ART? We do! The building is cool but the art is even cooler. The Paintpushers, a group of 13 talented local artists, will have their works on display in Farnham Galleries located in Mary Berry Hall on Tuesday from 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

CATCH A FREE FLICK. Catch the 2007 film, The Final Season- filmed in Iowa. Multiple showings at 1, 4 & 7 p.m. in Camp Lounge of the Brenton Student Center. Refreshments will be available for purchase.

CALLING ALL SIMPSON ALUMNI! Join us under the red and gold tent in front of College Hall between 5–7 p.m. on Tuesday for a Red & Gold Reception, RAGBRAI-style! We promise it’ll be a dilly of a time! All are welcome, so invite your friends. (If weather is inclement, event will be in Hubbell Atrium of Carver Hall.)

KARAOKE . . . Need we say more?! Be a rock star at Club Storm in Great Hall located above Pfeiffer Dining Hall. Tuesday 5–9 p.m. Refreshments will be available for purchase.

EAT ALL YOU CAN for dinner & breakfast in Pfeiffer Dining Hall located next to Buxton Park’s main campground. Tuesday 5–6:30 p.m. $9.95 per person – Menu includes pasta bar, carved roast beef, baked potato bar, pizza, salad bar and dessert. Wednesday 6–8 a.m. breakfast $6.95 per person – includes fresh fruit, ham, sausage, bacon, scrambled eggs, egg sandwich with croissants, blueberry pancakes, waffle bar and yogurt bar with assorted pastries. Beverages and snacks will also be available through Pfeiffer Express on Tuesday from 1–5 p.m.

OOOO AND AHHH at the beauty of a Nite-Glo. Three tethered hot air balloons will light up the night at McBride baseball field on E Street. Come and see one of the gorgeous sights that make Indianola known around the world. We’ll start just after sunset, weather permitting. Concessions will be available.

Our next pre-ride blog, will cover the departure details from Burlington to Indianola on Saturday, July 25.

Indianola departure details...

2009-07-13T14:21:00.000-07:00

Remember we would love to have your bike and gear on Friday, July 17, at 2 pm. The bike truck and gear truck will be in the southwest corner of the Hillman parking lot on the corner of Clinton and C streets. Please remove your bike pedals before we load your bike. We will have pedal wrenches on site if you do not have one. We will ask you to be responsible for your own pedals; we don’t want to mix them up! Please contact me if you have a non-traditional bike, such as a recumbent, tricycle or tandem. It will help our packing efforts.

Otherwise, we will see you at 10 am on Saturday, July 18. We expect the loading and packing process may take between two and three hours, so please plan to be patient as we want to make sure to handle everyone’s bike and gear with care. Departure from the Hillman Hall parking lot around 1 pm. A pizza lunch will be provided by the Simpson Alumni Office prior to departure. We will be distributing rider packets that will contain your daily maps and other information. Those of you, who are joining the team after Saturday, please check with Bob Lane or Kelley Bradder to get your rider packet.

We need to know if you will be leaving a car at Simpson while you are gone to make sure you have an appropriate parking pass for your car.

You may want to bring a book or reading material with you for the 2 -2 ½ hour trip to Council Bluffs.

So please take a minute and drop me an email at Kelley.bradder@simpson.edu. Let me know your parking needs and if you have a non-traditional bike. Your help will make our Saturday departure process go smoothly.

We will have two more blog posts before we depart: Indianola overnight details and Burlington departure information.

Happy packing!

Overnight Hosts for Team Simpson RAGBRAI 2009

2009-07-09T11:46:00.000-07:00

Below is the list of our gracious overnight hosts for RAGBRAI XXXVII. Remember, we are providing you with compact laminated daily maps with the bike route on one side and directions to our overnight hosts on the other side. So no need to create maps yourself! The maps will also have our drivers' cell phone numbers, in case of emergencies.

Council Bluffs
Mid-America Center
One Arena Way
Council Bluffs, Iowa 51501
www.midamericacenter.com
Hosts: Kim McMartin Schilling ’90 and Charlie Schilling ’89
(Charlie is the General Manager of Mid-American Center)
We will be camping on the Mid-America Center grounds very close to the Bass Pro Shop. Advance tickets to the Ribfest and Bare Naked Ladies concert are still available, contact chris.goodale@simpson.edu by 9 am Monday, July 13.

Red Oak
Deanna Viner Archer ‘62
1497 210th Street
Red Oak, Iowa 51566
(Remember that this host lives 1.5 miles off the route on gravel.) Deanna hopes to have indoor storage for our bikes.

Greenfield
Brad and Kaye Bax
2171 Hwy 92
Greenfield, Iowa 50849
(Their daughter Courtney is a current Simpson student.)

Indianola – staying on campus or at home

Chariton
Darrin Gregory ‘07
1518 Linden Ave
Chariton, Iowa 50049

Ottumwa
Mary Datisman Frisbie ‘64
Morris Frisbie ‘65
2878 Oak Meadow Drive
Ottumwa, IA 52501
(They have two neighbors who are helping them host – a total of 6 bathrooms available!)

Mt. Pleasant
Barb Gibson Kennedy ‘75
402 East Monroe
Mt. Pleasant, Iowa 52641

Our hosts are excited to meet and host Team Simpson riders. What a great way to connect the Simpson Community.

Upcoming blogs will feature Indianola events on Tuesday and our final details.

2009-07-08T09:57:00.000-07:00

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!

Team riding around Indianola

2009-06-24T08:38:00.000-07:00

I want to start some Team Simpson rides near Indianola. Best times for me to ride are early Saturday/Sunday mornings (7-12noon) or weekday mornings (8-12noon), but I could try to make other arrangements.
Good routes:
A. Meet at 165th and Kennedy Street (south of Marywood Farms) and ride south to Milo/Lacona/Chariton. This is a low traffic route, with rolling hills.
B. Meet at Imes Bridge in St. Charles and ride a loop out to Winterset/E. Peru/Truro. This is a low traffic route, with some bigger hills thrown in along the way. Extra mileage can be added with a trek through St. Mary's if needed.

Both of these routes work best with more than one rider, for safety.

Let me know if you want to join me. Come prepared: plenty of water/Gatorade, sunscreen, snacks, safety equipment, spare tubes/patch kit and a pump, etc. (I have been witness to too many flat tires in the past week!) There are no bike shops and few food stops nearby!

Ready, Set, Tent!

2009-06-24T06:26:00.000-07:00

We have arranged overnight hosts in each of the overnight RAGBRAI towns for Team Simpson. Each host was asked to provide us with:

A yard for our riders to pitch their tents from afternoon until the following morning.
Showers for the riders on the day the group arrives, and access to the bathroom(s).
A few electrical outlets for the group to plug in cell phones, I-pods and the likes.
Access to water for water bottle fill-up prior to leaving in the morning.

In addition, Team Simpson’s gear truck will be traveling with:

a quick set up canopy, for instant shade
several power strips,
several coolers full of beverages,
post-ride snacks and pre-ride granola bars,
first aid kit,
several bicycle tire pumps,
and an abundance of trash bags.

So BYOTT (which translates to bring your own tent and towel), along with your camping and sleeping gear. You may want to consider bringing along a collapsible chair, as we expect riders will come and go from our overnight hosts’ homes as they explore the town. Often, the group will sit outside and visit with each other into the evening. We will welcome our hosts to pull up a chair too, join the group, and continue their “Simpson Experience”.

The next Team Simpson blog post will include information on arrival and departure times of the gear truck, daily maps, and signage for our daily ride.

Until then- keep riding for the red and gold!

2009-06-23T06:33:00.000-07:00

Meet Team Simpson!

Welcome to the Team Simpson blog! Here, we’ll count down the days until RAGBRAI XXXVII and get to know each other a bit before the ride. We’ll also use this blog to finalize our plans and answer questions.

The inaugural team will be made up of 51 cyclists and 2 drivers. We have 29 week long riders and 22 riders who will ride a portion of the week. The most popular segment of the ride appears to be Sunday through Tuesday for the much anticipated cruise into Indianola.
Forty-two teammates are traveling from Indianola to the start of the ride in Council Bluffs on Saturday, July 18 and 30 teammates are returning with the team from Burlington to Indianola on Saturday, July 25. We come from 15 different states and vary widely in our RAGBRAI experience. We have RAGBRAI veterans and riders who will be experiencing RAGBRAI for the first time.

Here is a list of team members’ first names and their home towns.

Chris – Indianola, IA
Denise – Boca Rotan, FL
Lu Ann – Urbandale, IA
Bob – Indianola, IA
Ben – Boseman, MT
Ryan – Indianola, IA
Kelley – West Des Moines, IA
Joshua – Treynor, IA
Nicole – Kansas City, MO
Jason – West Des Moines, IA
Judy – Indianola, IA
Angie – Ankeny, IA
Brian – Omaha, NB
Jennifer – Johnston, IA
Craig – Des Moines, IA
Jacki – Johnston, IA
Michael – Norwalk, IA
Kimberly – Des Moines, IA
Jason –Johnston, IA
Burton – Newburgh, IN
Kevin – Kilmarnock, VA
Patrick – Johnston, IA
Werner – Indianola, IA
Sheila – Kilmarnock, VA
John – Runnells, IA
Daniel – West Des Moines, IA
Carolyn – Kansas City, MO
Jacque – Johnston, IA
John – Edina, MN
Joseph – Westwood, KS
Jeff – Johnston, IA
Denise –Fort Cambell, KY
Shari – Westwood, KS
Martha – Indianola, IA
Dave – Pompano Beach, FL
Eric – Minneapolis, MN
Jackie – Indianola, IA
John – Sacramento, CA
Marv – Indianola, IA
John – Indianola, IA
Ron – Walnut Creek, CA
David – Saginaw, MI
Kevin – Johnston, IA
Scott –Bartlesville, OK
Paul – Indianola, IA
Ben – Altoona, IA
Brian – Iowa City, IA
Stacey – Indianola, IA
David – Evansville, IN
James – Sultan, WA
Alex – Fisher, IN
Jay – Indianola, IA
Kelli – Hot Springs, SD

We invite you to become a regular on the Team Simpson blog. Feel free to ask or answer questions and contribute as you choose. This is simply a way to have a free flowing conversation, allowing everyone to contribute as much or as little as they feel comfortable. In upcoming posts we will talk more about our overnight locations and hosts, packing lists, travel logistics, and other details.

July 18 marks the beginning of a new adventure linked together by two interests, Simpson College and a passion for cycling.

We can’t wait!