FAYETTE, IOWA (July 13, 2023) — Upper Iowa University (UIU) is excited to announce the return of Team Peacock for RAGBRAI L, one of the largest and longest-running bicycle tours in the world. With a renewed commitment to supporting education and empowering students, Team Peacock aims to raise funds for scholarships while participating in the iconic event.
Team Peacock will, again, join the approximately 20,000 plus anticipated other riders in making the 500-mile trek across Iowa in 2023. Team Peacock is scheduled to depart in support vehicles from Victory Gate at Fayette Campus Saturday, July 22. The RAGBRAI journey begins in Sioux City Sunday, July 23. Additional overnight stops will take place in Storm Lake, Carroll, Ames, Des Moines, Tama-Toledo, and Coralville. As is tradition, bicycle tires will be dipped in the Mississippi River this year in Davenport Saturday, July 29.
RAGBRAI (Register's Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa) is celebrating its fiftieth anniversary this year and Team Peacock, similarly, is making big plans. Comprised of 33 riders and nine support crew members, this is the largest team in University history. Not only will Team Peacock proudly represent Upper Iowa across the state, but they've also set a fundraising goal of $30,000. Contributions will support UIU students and emerging needs for the University.
"RAGBRAI is not only an incredible adventure but also a fantastic opportunity for us to come together as a community and make a difference in the lives of students," said UIU President Emeritus William R Duffy II. "Through the efforts of our amazing and dedicated group of riders, sponsors, and other supporters, we are able to provide funding to ensure that current and future UIU students have the support they need to succeed."
UIU has a long-standing commitment to making higher education accessible and affordable. Scholarships play a crucial role in this mission by providing financial support to deserving students who may face financial barriers. Since 2005, Team Peacock has assisted these efforts by raising more than $1 million to help expand scholarship opportunities and help more students realize their full potential.
To support Team Peacock's efforts, individuals and organizations may give online at uiu.edu/SupportTeamPeacock. Every donation, big or small, greatly benefits current and future UIU students.
For more information about Team Peacock, contact the UIU Alumni Office at 563-425-5388 or alumni@uiu.edu.
