3 pictures of participants during RAGBRAI 2022. (From left to right.) An amputee rider pedals past the camera in her recumbant bike. A large group picture of the team. A blind rider on a tandem bike with a guide.

Adaptive Sports Iowa Cycling Team Presented By Iowa Farm Bureau

Register’s Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI®)

Adaptive Sports Iowa (ASI) recognized that cyclists with disabilities face many barriers that limit the accessibility of  RAGBRAI. ASI organized this team to reduce the impact of these barriers and make RAGBRAI accessible and enjoyable to cyclists with disabilities. The team was first organized in 2011 and consisted of 24 riders, 11 of which had physical or visual disabilities. Today, our team regularly reaches up to 80 riders with 30 or more riders with disabilities. Since our first ride, we have looked to increase our numbers and provide a great experience for those that love cycling. Thanks to our generous sponsors and volunteers, RAGBRAI has become a strong tradition for the Adaptive Sports Iowa Cycling Team.

Eligibility

*Please note: our team for RAGBRAI 2024 is full.

In order to participate in RAGBRAI as a member of the Adaptive Sports Iowa Cycling Team Presented by Iowa Farm Bureau, we require all cyclists to be able to self-propel or physically assist in the population of a cycle. We approach RAGBRAI as a major endurance event and our cyclists need to be prepared accordingly.

Registration

2023 RAGBRAI team registration is full. Participants should reach out to info@adaptivesportsiowa.org early for next year’s team. Team registration for 2024 will open around November 2023.

Amenities

All Adaptive Sports Iowa Cycling Team Presented by Iowa Farm Bureau members with physical and visual disabilities are provided the following amenities:

  • Team cycling jersey
  • Accessible transportation from Des Moines to the starting location, and from the ending location back to Des Moines
  • SAG Crew to help transport overnight essentials between overnight stay locations
  • Support crew and vehicles to transfer wheelchairs and other essential equipment
  • Accommodations for overnights that are indoors and accessible

Overnight Locations

2023 RAGBRAI® ROUTE

Date Town Mileage Climb Special Note
7/21 Glenwood to Red Oak 44 mi 2,955 ft
7/22 Red Oak to Atlantic 40 mi 1,699 ft
7/23 Atlantic to Winterset 79 mi 4,384 ft
7/24 Winterset to Knoxville 74 mi 3,039 ft
7/25 Knoxville to Ottumwa 60 mi 2,441 ft
7/26 Ottumwa to Mt. Pleasant 82 mi 3,124 ft
7/27 Mt. Pleasant to Burlington 45 mi 1,099 ft

Training Program

Click Here to view the RAGBRAI Training Program 

Packing List

You can download the packing list here: CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD

DAILY NEEDS:

Water Bottle, All-in-one Tool, Bike Lock, Camera, Electrical Tape, Road ID, Helmet, Patch Kit, Spare Tube, Tire Lever, Pump or air cartridge, Cycling Gloves, Appropriate footwear, Portable electronic device, Charger, Plastic waterproof case, Ziploc case, Zip Ties, Cash/Credit Card, Health Insurance Card & ID, Sunscreen/Lip Balm, Toilet Paper, Air Mattress, Catheter Supplies

CLOTHING:

Hat, Cycling/Riding shorts (2-3 pair), Sunglasses, Swim Suit, T-Shirts (2-3), Underwear (3-5), Shorts (1-2 pair), Pants (1), Rain Jacket, Biking Shoes, Biking Socks, Cycling Gloves, Sandals/Casual Shoes

TOILETRIES:

Prepackaged Wipes, Disposable Razor, Eye-Drops, Q-Tips, Shampoo, Anti-Chaffing lotion, Soap, Deodorant, Soap to wash clothes, Toilet Paper, Tooth Brush & Toothpaste, Prescriptions, Band-Aids

MISC:

Bug Spray, Ear Plugs, Gum, Ziploc Bags, Sleeping Bag or Sheets, Small Pillow, Towel

DO NOT PACK:

Cooler, More than one bike, more than one overnight bag/tote, Camping Gear

POSSIBLE THERAPEUTIC OUTCOMES:

  • Increased joint mobility, muscle movement, and circulation
  • Improved core control, coordination, and balance
  • Increased sense of independence
  • Increased social connections through in-person events and Facebook group
  • Maintain healthy weight
  • Improved cardiovascular endurance and overall health
  • Reduced stress and anxiety through increased endorphins
  • Improved sleep quality
  • Improved alertness, concentration, and overall cognitive function
  • More effective communication skills

Interested in joining our team?

Interested in joining as a volunteer or cyclist with a disability, email info@adaptivesportsiowa.org to get connected.

*Please note: our 2024 RAGBRAI team is currently full.

Presenting Sponsor

Iowa Farm Bureau LogoTogether we are FARM STRONG®

The Iowa Farm Bureau is proud to celebrate farmers and all Iowans who summon the strength to do more, be more.  Those individuals who don’t have an ounce of quit in them.  Those who are Farm Strong®.

Interested in sponsoring our team?

Email karlie.hunter@iowasportsfoundation.org to learn more.

Empty chairs of RAGBRAI participants

OUR SPONSORS

Hy-Vee Logo
MidAmerican Energy
University Of Iowa Heath Care Logo
Bankers Trust Logo
A colorful tree inside a circle on top of the words GreenState Credit Union.
EMC Logo
Fareway Logo
Grinnell Mutual Logo
Iowa Farm Bureau Logo
Iowa Wild Logo
Absolute Group