Day 4 to Knoxville

Though short on miles - only 50 - today's hump day ride to Knoxville offered the second most climb at 2,920 feet. I didn't feel like the hills were as rewarding as prior days, but who am I to judge?

Highlights of the route were passing the State Capitol building and through the state fairgrounds in Des Moines and crossing the 1-mile bridge at Lake Red Rock. I didn't get a swim for the first time all week, but the shower at the home of Kevin and Jennifer Bassett Wadle '95 was nearly as refreshing.

Jennifer was Coe roommates with CoeBRAI veteran Amy Wiezorek Schork '95, who should be rolling into camp any time now.

Tomorrow's ride to Oskaloosa offers similar distance and climb to today. Along the way, we'll pass through Pella - home of Iowa Conference rival Central College - before spending the night on the campus of William Penn University.

Day 3 to Des Moines

With cloudy skies, cool temperatures and only 1,308 feet of climb, Tuesday's 50-mile ride to Des Moines couldn't have been easier. Ok, there was some wind to contend with, but that's splitting hairs.

Highlights of the day, for me, were lunch at Chubby's outside of Van Meter and a stop at historic Valley Junction in West Des Moines. I'd like to return to the latter some day when I'm not on my bike.

After a swim, I made my way to the home of Bridget and Steve Van Every '75, our hosts in the capitol city. Everclear, Live, Filter and Sponge are on tap tonight as this year's big RAGBRAI concert, but I'm pretty comfortable right here.

Day 2 to Perry

For me, at least, the 83-mile ride to Perry ranks among my all-time top 5 RAGBRAI days. Those who opted for the century loop might disagree, but I loved the long, fast descents that rewarded most of the tough but manageable climbs. A 10-mile stretch from Kimbleton to Hamblin was particularly breathtaking.

A storm curtailed our evening activity, but no harm done as the rest of the week offers 50-ish mile rides and cool temperatures.

Thanks to the Finneseths for hosting in Perry. Tomorrow we dry out in Des Moines with Steve Van Every.