A major Iowa biking advocacy group is now backing both statewide rides.
Iowa Bicycle Coalition Executive Director Mark Wyatt said in a statement Wednesday that the group will support the Register's Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa, as well as Iowa's Ride.
The coalition, which advocates for bicycle safety policies and education, had endorsed Iowa's Ride in October, days after the announcement of the new event by former RAGBRAI staffers.
"We believe RAGBRAI is committed to enhance Iowa bicycle advocacy, promote bicycling culture overall, and contribute toward the state of Iowa’s reputation and economic vibrancy," Wyatt said Wednesday.
RAGBRAI Senior Marketing Manager Anne Lawrie said she met and had talked by phone with Wyatt and other Bicycle Coalition members several times since mid-October. Some members also met with new RAGBRAI Ride Director Dieter Drake last week.
"We have had somereally greatconversations, and just had an opportunity to listen to each other andbuilda renewed partnership,"Lawrie said.