A couple dozen riders gathered in Perry’s Soumas Court Saturday to enjoy a light breakfast and register for some prizes before taking off on the Raccoon River Valley Trail for the 19th annual Hiawatha Classic.

It was unseasonably chilly and quite windy but that didn’t stop the many riders from taking part in the spring tradition.  In addition to the ride itself there were several entertainment options for both riders and non-riders both before and after the ride including a live DJ in Soumas Court and discounted lunch at the Hotel Pattee.

Perry Parks and Recreation Director John Anderson says the event was great.  “Good speaker, great sponsors, lots of winners with raffle drawings.”  Even though the weather made if feel “most like a second BRR (Bike Ride to Rippey) ride” Anderson says they probably made more money this year than ever before thanks to sponsorships and raffle ticket sales.  Overall he says the committee put on a great event and there was more community buy in than ever before.

All proceeds from the event will go to support in town trails in Perry and specifically the Raccoon River Valley Trail to High Trestle Trail connector project between Perry and Woodward.

Final attendance and fundraising totals are still being tabulated.  We’ll bring you an update as it becomes official.