Two Marion County residents with very different riding backgrounds are among the many local residents who began the 38th annual RAGBRAI yesterday in Sioux City. Brian Kendall of Knoxville is making the over 450-mile trip for the first time ever, which is part of a goal that he set months ago to get in better shape.

On the other side of the spectrum is Casey Flanagan, of Pella. Flanagan has ridden in several RAGBRAI’s, starting when he was young, and grew up with strong cycling influences from his parents. However, both riders share a common goal of enjoying the trip through Iowa’s countryside and the camaraderie of fellow riders.

Today’s RAGBRAI route runs from Storm Lake to Algona on a 79-mile route. RAGBRAI XXXVIII ends on Saturday in Dubuque.

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