Yesterday the annual mob of bicyclists that take part of the Register’s Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa made their way through Greenfield.

Ernest Jackson of the Dubuque Bike Club says that they attend RAGBRAI every year, and that this year they wanted to be able to support Greenfield along the way. He tells Raccoon Valley Radio about being able to see the destruction from the devastating May 21st tornado in person.

“You know, we all see natural disasters on TV, but when you get up close and see the impact on people and the destruction that is done at a property, I could really see it and feel it. So our thoughts are still with this community. We’ve had a lot of our members donate, and we just want to really be here and see it and support them.”

RAGBRAI doesn’t just have an Iowa following though, and bicyclists from across the US could be seen resting in and around the town square. Eric Pompe of Charlotte, North Carolina says that his brother from Cedar Rapids invited him to join his group for his first time making the trip, and mentions that he thought it was a great idea that the route took bicyclists through the damaged parts of town. He shares what he’s enjoyed about the trek so far.

“I personally love the Iowa topography. Those rolling hills where you get momentum on the downslope, it’s not too steep on the upslope. It’s spectacularly visual and green, and the cornfields are mesmerizing. I couldn’t have asked for a better planned race. And I’m so glad for these towns that welcome us into the town. And so, we feel very welcome in Greenfield, and we’re here and happy to try and help out.”

Bicyclists from Minnesota, California, Louisiana and many other states could also be seen in the square. Today the riders take off from Winterset as they continue their trip to the eastern side of the state.