MASON CITY – In the Southbridge Mall food court, officials presented the Mason City RAGBRAI route, logo and the headlining entertainment for the event as it passes through town on July 23.
A few dozen folks were on hand for the announcement; some enjoyed free cookies from Hy-Vee.
Riders will be coming in to town on 12th Street, turning south on Pierce Avenue, then East on 1st Street NW to Washington, south to State Street then east to East Park where the majority will be camping for the evening.
The logo for the Mason City stop was revealed; it was designed by artist Jim Zach of Mason City. “Best hump day ever” is the slogan.
The headlining entertainment will be former Poison front man Bret Michaels along with 80s hair band Warrant.
Mason City was chosen as one of the eight Iowa communities to serve as a “host” community for the Register’s Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI) 2014.
This will the the 42nd year for the annual seven-day bicylce ride across the state. It is the oldest, largest and longest bicycle touring event of it’s kind and draws around 10,000 cyclists from all 50 states and around the world to participate.
The last time Mason City served as an overnight host for RAGBRAI was July 1985.
Riders will roll into town on July 23rd, just 36 miles from their previous night’s stay in neighboring Forest City. According to Visit Mason City, riders will be welcomed by a big party in the heart of Downtown Mason City, as well as many unique sightseeing opportunities and attractions throughout the community.
