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Ironman Rides into St. Croix Valley

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Ironman logoBicyclists looking to put on some miles after a long winter can do it on the rolling hills and wide highways of the St. Croix River Valley with the Minnesota Ironman Ride on April 28.

Some riders might have spent recent months riding an indoor trainer or on the snow with a fat bike, but for many, the Ironman will be the first test of the season. Ride director Jon Ridge says the event is called the "Ironman" because it comes right on the heels of winter, "The ride started because of the early season challenge. Who among us can ride a century after a long Minnesota winter?"

Moving party

The ride relocated to Washington County this year from Lakeville, where it has been based for the past 13 years. Ridge says when the organizers decided it was time for a change of scenery, "The St. Croix River Valley was an easy choice. Picturesque, friendly, challenging, and new."

Ridge also praised the region's roadways, "Washington County seems to know how to build roads. Many of our routes include wide paved shoulders perfectly suited for cycling. The hills are not huge but they add to the excitement of the ride."

About 4,000 riders are expected to participate in what Ridge stresses is not a race, but a "massive biker party." A month before the ride, they already have 2,700 signups. Most riders are from the Twin Cities area, although 15 states and one Canadian province are already represented.

Something for everyone

The ride will be based out of the Washington County Fairgrounds in Lake Elmo. Routes of varying lengths head north toward Scandia, south to Afton, or west and then north along the Gateway Trail.

Ambitious cyclists can piece together a century by combining multiple loops, with a convenient stop at the fairgrounds between sections to rest.

Ridge says the fairgrounds hub will be a unique benefit for the Ironman, "The Washington County Fairgrounds will serve as the start/finish for our routes of 15, 25, 25 and 50 miles. That way we can provide food, beverage, mechanics, medical support as riders finish or keep adding distances to their riding day."

Part of the ride route in Afton
Part of the Ironman route in Afton

Open for bicyclists

The ride is also a chance for communities along the route to welcome another season of two-wheeled tourists, and towns along the route are throwing their doors open to riders.

The rural city of Scandia is a featured stop for riders on the northern extremity of the 50-mile loop. Tom Triplett is the founder of the Friends of Scandia Parks, and vice president of the Lions Club, which will be staffing the food/beverage operations at the Community Center rest stop. He says the ride is "a fantastic opportunity to impress thousands of riders with our beautiful city and all that we have to offer." They expect 2,000-3,000 bikers to pass through town.

In an effort to encourage riders to visit again, the Friends of Scandia Parks and Trails will have new maps of the city's bike trail system available.

Bicycles and comeradery

Ride director Ridge says the big draw of the Ironman is the sense of community among the riders, "Biking on MInnesota roads is free., but how often can you do it with thousands of other riders?"

Especially for the past few months, the answer has been not at all. But the season of rolling parties is coming back quick, and the Ironman is its first holiday.

Register for the ride at http://ironmanbikeride.org/.

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