Saturday, July 22, 1995

RAGBRAI means adventure; even before you arive at the starting point. Half way to the start the Superior HAWG converted 1960's vintage school bus decided, "Nope, not this hill." and decided to leave us stranded. Clutch problems. We limped into the town of Moreland, IA to a Small Engine Repair shop. The owner was stunned to see 30 brightly clothed people unload into his parking lot. Fortunately, one of the HAWG bus crew races sports cars, and with a few borrowed tools was able to get us back on the road in an hour. Onawa was unbelievable. 15,000 people scurrying around for food, camping space, toilets, entertainment, bike parts, souvenirs, etc. Resources were scarce, but everyone was cooperative. During the night an ambulance was called to carry off an ill rider. It's amazing how thin tent walls are. Around 4:30 am the early riders were breaking camp and heading out with headlights on. They were the hardy souls. They probably wanted to avoid the KYBO ( Porta-Potti) lines and food lines. We left about 6:30 with the main mob. Riders everywhere.