Get ready for iGran Fondo on July 20

The 2013 Iowa Gran Fondo is less than two weeks away. The ride starts in Sioux City and pedals about 100 miles south to Council Bluffs on July 20, the day before RAGBRAI begins it’s push across the state.

Last year, more than 150 riders from across the nation participated in this challenge, racing against their personal bests along the gorgeous backdrop of the Loess Hills of western Iowa.

The 2013 ride will feature two courses: a chip-timed ride from Sioux City to Council Bluffs that spans about 100 miles, and a shorter route from Onawa to Council Bluffs that is roughly 67 miles. Shuttles will take riders to Onawa, where they will depart.

This year’s fee of $35 will include a T-shirt, bag transportation, food and drink stops along the route. Jerseys also will be available for an additional $65.

The 2013 iGran Fondo century route is mostly flat to downhill with one large climb at around mile 80. The route will leave Sioux City from the IBP Ice Center, heading south on Highway 75 with a police escort around 7 a.m. The route follows Highway 75 south through Woodbury, Monona, Harrison and Pottawattamie counties, before ending on the riverfront in Council Bluffs, where the 2013 RAGBRAI ride begins the next day.

There will be support stops along the route where water and food will be provided for riders. Additionally, riders will have numerous towns to stop in along the way.

The ride will provide an incredible opportunity to see Iowa’s beauty at its finest.

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