The 60th Vätternrundan
Heart rates rose, the start show kicked off, and the clock approached 7:30 PM. From the loudspeakers came a familiar greeting:
“Vätternrundan welcomes you to this jubilee ride. We know you will do everything to make it around and return to the finish sometime tomorrow. All the residents of Motala and the Vätternrundan organizing committee warmly welcome you back. Now you may start.”
This was a recorded greeting from Lennart Brask from 1975.
Suddenly, everyone’s eyes turned skyward, where two Gripen fighter jets flew over the start area. Shortly after, the first cyclists rolled off, led by a parade including a police Amazon, a police motorcycle, and a Saab 96 support car – period-typical elements that recalled the early years of Vätternrundan. In the first start group were, among others, Peter Liljedahl and Jan Rydell with start numbers 1 and 2, both sons of the founders Sten-Otto Liljedahl and Ewert Rydell.
The 315 km challenge through a clear summer night brought together participants from over 70 nationalities around Vättern, and the number of German participants had increased by nearly 30 percent compared with the previous year’s record figures. Moreover, over half of all cyclists were first-timers, with the largest growth in the 18–25 age group.
Numbers aside, the experience and personal stories mattered most. Throughout Saturday, tired but happy cyclists streamed across the finish line. The first to receive a medal was Andreas Rydebring: “An amazing experience. There was so much crowd support that it gave you energy.” Volunteers were also celebrated when TV personality Per Skoglund finished: “Everyone helping out at the aid stations – you are incredible… wow to you!”
Among the participants were those who had experienced 30, 40, and 50 rides, but only one completing it for the 60th time – pioneer Stig Johansson, who, almost like a celebrity, drew all eyes, applause, and camera flashes as he crossed the finish line. For the 60th time. To be continued!
… and we must not forget Team Serneke – Allebike Fueled by Umara, who, after several years of focused training, executed perfectly. With a time of 6:47:59, they became the fastest since the course was redesigned – with a full 17-minute margin.
The Challenge Around Lake Vättern – Followed by a Community Celebration
The golden rays of the sun shone on the excited cyclists in the starting area. Ahead of them, a spectacular opening show kicked off with mountain bikers flipping 5 meters in the air, while the DJ played high-energy music to the cheers of the crowd. Beyond the starting line awaited a 315 km challenge that attracted over 16,000 registered cyclists.
By nightfall, the first cyclists were approaching Jönköping. For elite amateur Filip Thunberg, the journey so far meant “being impressed by the recreational cyclists he passed along the way.” One of the many people Filip cheered on around Lake Vättern was Stig Johansson, Vätternrundan’s only remaining pioneer, completing his 59th race.
Standing out among the cyclists were more young participants, more first-timers, and more women. As usual, the event had a high international turnout, with every tenth cyclist traveling all the way from Germany.
Filip, who was riding Vätternrundan into the early hours for the first time, was the first to cross the finish line. Throughout Saturday, proud cyclists continued to arrive in Motala to warm applause from the crowd. The 2024 cycling week, which had already kicked off the weekend before with Tjejvättern, Halvvättern, the 100 km Vätternrundan, MTB-Vättern, and Minivättern, was now complete. It could only be summed up as a true community celebration!
Sorry, this entry is only available in Svenska
Sorry, this entry is only available in Svenska
High international participation in this year’s race
After two years of the pandemic, Vätternrundan was back where it belongs – with the start and finish in Motala on the weekend before Midsummer. However, the 57th edition of the race was marked by difficult conditions, with rain and strong winds. Some seasoned veterans even claim it was the toughest since the “snow ride” in 1981 – especially those who started on Friday evening.
On Saturday, the skies cleared and of the 10,867 riders who reached the finish line, the vast majority had big smiles on their faces after completing an enormous achievement. One of them was the pioneer Stig Johansson, 76, who once again finished the race – just as he has done every single time since the event began in 1966. He is the only person to have done so.
Another notable feature of this year’s ride was the high level of international participation. Cyclists from 63 countries took part, and among the long-distance visitors were riders from Japan, New Zealand, Venezuela, Mexico and Uganda.
Premiere of the new course route
This year’s edition of Vätternrundan became historic – for several reasons. For the first time ever, the race was held in the autumn, and it also marked the premiere of the new course, which made the ride 18 kilometres longer than ever before.
These two changes significantly altered the conditions for the participants, who experienced one of the toughest editions ever. Not least because the dark night was both much longer and colder than it usually is during a normal Cycling Week in June. Despite the demanding circumstances, all 604 participants completed the home edition “Min Vätternrunda”, and 6,459 of the 6,956 starters reached the finish line in Motala – with almost everyone feeling very happy and proud. One of them was 18-year-old Edvin Adolfsson from Katrineholm.
“I’ve always dreamed of cycling around Lake Vättern, and now I’ve finally done it,” he said in the finishing chute.
Along the new course, he also experienced cheers, songs and festivities at Dalbyporten, where Systrarna K had organized an appreciated show for the cyclists.
After 54 consecutive years, 2020 became a year to remember
After 54 consecutive years, 2020 became a year to remember. Due to the pandemic, Vätternrundan was forced to cancel Cycling Week – at least the physical event in Motala. Instead, the organizers came up with a new solution, allowing cyclists to take on the race from home. Min Vätternrundan was a huge success, with 5,455 cyclists from 26 countries completing the various rides. One of them was the pioneer Stig Johansson, who thus maintained his streak as the only person to have cycled every Vätternrundan. True to tradition, he rode his old Husqvarna bike from 1937 around Lake Vättern, but this time with start and finish in his hometown of Fagersanna.
The total distance cycled by all participants (1,375,825 meters) is equivalent to 34 laps around the Earth.
CEO Gunilla Brynell-Johansson was pleased with the high level of engagement from participants: “It exceeded expectations and shows how strong the interest in cycling is. It’s about being creative and finding ways to adapt, something our participants have shown they are very good at. A positive aspect is that around a quarter of those who registered their rides hadn’t originally signed up,” she said.
“Unbeatable” cyclists
Just like the year before, the 54th edition of Vätternrundan 300 km became a true fairytail. The conditions were on top for all the 19,000 who made their way around the lake. The sky was blue, downwind to Jönköping and comfortable temperature. Like it was made for cycling.
In the startling list there were participants from approximately 70 countries, including Princess Tessy of Luxembourg who cycled the race for the first time. “It was fantastic, an incredible experience” was her rating after her debut. An opinion she shared with the majority.
During Friday night we also heard Jonas Thander and Stefan Nykvist perform the new official song of Vätternrundan “Oslagbara” (“Unbeatable”) live next to the starting area.
Brilliant cycling in brilliant weather
The sun shone on the roads around the large lake in 2018. For the 53rd consecutive year, it was time for a cycling celebration in Motala, and by the time the finish line tape was pulled in Stadsparken late on Saturday, 19,002 of the 19,709 cyclists who started had completed the 300-kilometre ride.
Summing up his race debut at the finish, former skiing star Robin Bryntesson said it was “one of the finest sporting events I’ve ever attended.”
Alongside the race, entertainment included the band Summer Kid, performing the song Bike, the official Vätternrundan anthem for the year.
More girls and fundraising successes
Ahead of the 52nd Vätternrundan, it became clear that interest in cycling was growing strongly among women. While participation in Tjejvättern declined, the number of women taking on the full 300-kilometre ride increased. A total of 4,474 women registered – almost double the number from ten years ago. Interest in fundraising through cycling also grew that summer. Notably, Team Mustasch managed to raise nearly 200,000 SEK for their prostate cancer campaign.
Of the 19,487 participants who set out around the lake, 18,856 cyclists reached the finish line.
New service depot in Jönköping
Some riders managed to avoid the rain showers while others ended up underneath them on this 51st Vätternrundan. There’s now only two persons who have completed all 51 rides, the pioneers Stig “Lappen” Johansson and Lars-Åke Åkerman. The third pioneer Nils Dåverhög unfortunately had to cancel after about 50 miles.
The classic meal of meatballs and mashed potatoes was served on the new service depot Kinnarps Arena in Jönköping, and it all worked very well.
Eurovision winner Måns Zelmerlöw, the radio voice of the Rix FM Fredrik Birging and the artist Markoolio were some of the celebrities who, very happy but tired crossed the finish line on Saturday night.
The 50th Vätternrundan was the best ever!
The 50th Vätternrundan can only be seen as a huge success. The effect of the perfect weather resulted in a record in the number of starts, 20002. And with a new record in starts and realtivly few who didn’t finish, 650, there’s a record in number of completions. A total of 19 352 crossed the finish line.
Vätternrundan is a recreational bike ride and no competition, but a new time record was set by Team Tre Berg who did it in 6 hours and 33 minutes.
Among the participants we noticed the Danish Crown prince Frederik who finished his first Vätternrunda.
A new record ride
Vätternrundan 2014 was an amazing bike weekend. Almost perfect bike weather, a part from being slightly windy during the Saturday. With 43% riding for the first time, Vätternrundan consolidates its position at the forefront of public health.
When we sum up Vätternrundan 2014 we can see that this year’s ride broke a number of records from last year; the number of started and finished to name a few. Five hours and 20 minutes after the start, the first rider crossed the finish line after the 300km long trip around lake Vättern.
Yet another record ride
Vätternrundan 2013 was, according to our self, the best organized ride since the start in 1966. Once again a record ride with 19 406 started where many was worried that this year’s ride would be as rainy as the year before. Luckily the rain never came apart from a few sprinkles. However, the wind was a bit heavy but that didn’t stop the 18 475 that followed through and broke the record.
– To sum up; a windy yet sunny ride with loads of fabulous performances, said the CEO of Vätternrundan, Eva-Lena Frick.
A memorable 47th ride
Record numbers of registrations, record numbers of nations, record-fast times, and nearly a record number of dropouts (2,350 in 1985). Vätternrundan 2012 truly lived up to the title of “record ride” and will be remembered. However, no new records were set for the number of starters or finishers.
Still, this year’s ride will be remembered as one of the most remarkable in modern times: 23,307 registered participants, 46 represented nations, the 500,000th starter, and a time of 6:38 set by the Ride of Hope team – all new records. Furthermore, the number of cyclists forced to abandon had not been so high since 1985. About five hours of persistent rain caused roughly 2,250 cyclists to withdraw.
A great ride!
This year the Eurosport Vättern GP was a part of the Swedish Cup and drew a lot of visitors. During the Friday the weather was unsteady but cleared up closer to start. The Swedish artist Martin Stenmarck sang and one of the founders of Vätternrundan, Sten-Otto Liljedahl, had a statue unveiled just before the first start.
37 nations was represented among the participants and most of the bikers witness of a great ride.
Manifestation for cycling
Vätternrundan hosted a panel discussion about the bikes place in traffic. That was the start of the weekends nearly euphoric feeling that started with the Swedish championship for police and firefighters. Eurosport Invitational and Eurosport Vättern GP came next and was followed by a record breaking Vätternrundan. Never before has so many registered, started or finished in Vätternrundan. And never has so few been injured.
A great race and Motala showed it’s best side with great weather. Both the arrangers and participants gave Vätternrundan 2010 a very high grade. This was the year when Sub9 was separated from the other bikers for the first time.
The harbor is the new start
On Saturday night the final riders crossed the finish line in Vätternrundan for the 44th time. This year’s event was partially covered in rain but the weather cleared up and turned out better than expected.
The big news this year was that the start was moved to the harbor in central Motala. The response from the participants was positive. The interest for Vätternrundan 2009 was huge and was fully booked in January. None saw it coming so an exclusive group of 250 that was aiming to make A Swedish Classic had to ride a separate ride before the event.
More popular than ever
The increased demand for starting spots in Vätternrundan was clearly visible on Friday afternoon. The queues for name changes – a result of secondary sales – stretched across Motala town square.
More participants than ever arrived at the start – 15,945 – and a record number, 15,205, crossed the finish line 300 km later. After a brief shower on Friday evening, the weather overnight had been favorable, and Saturday in Motala brought brilliant sunshine. The sight of a summer-green city park filled with satisfied but tired cyclists warms the heart.
It was also pleasing that no serious accidents occurred; a total of 740 riders had to withdraw. It was a cycling festival like no other, with approximately 25,000 participants and at least as many cheering supporters along the course!
Registered: 17,929 (15,438 men / 2,491 women).
The international meeting spot
The cycling festival in Motala, this year’s gathering point for cycling enthusiasts from all over Sweden and much of the world – what an experience! A total of 34 nations participated, and international interest has never been greater.
Together with partners and skilled volunteers, the organizers were once again able to offer cyclists a pleasant weekend in Motala and excellent service along the course. The expanded expo at the town square was very well received, and it was clear that this central location in Motala is where one should be.
Timing also played a role: this year’s Vätternrunda was largely enjoyable, avoiding both Friday’s strong winds and Sunday’s rain. A record was set for the number of starters: 15,673 (the previous best year was 2003 with 15,442). More cyclists than ever completed the ride: 14,954 (the previous best year was 2006 with 14,832).
It is also worth noting that the 400,000th Vätternrundan cyclist crossed the finish line on Saturday evening.
The best ride for many
The superlatives knew no bounds when Vätternrundan’s CEO Eva-Lena Frick summed up the 41st Vätternrundan on Saturday evening. After two rainy and demanding editions, her third as CEO finally offered fine weather – just as she had boldly promised beforehand. The entire event was carried out in brilliant sunshine and with very little wind. There was speculation about whether Vätternrundan had ever experienced such perfect weather, although one pioneer believed it might have happened once before.
Dedicated volunteers and medal-wearing cyclists shone as brightly as the sun. Only 427 cyclists withdrew for various reasons, and the hospital visits that were reported involved only minor injuries, partly related to the heat. The shopkeepers in central Motala were also smiling. The relocation of the race number distribution into the town centre worked well, including the redirection of traffic and the addition of extra parking areas. Vätternrundan contributed to a public celebration and an atmosphere in the town square rarely seen before. In Vätternrundan, all kinds of cyclists take part – and everyone is a winner.
There were also reports of less car traffic than usual around Lake Vättern. The measures that had been taken, including information directed to truck drivers, had clearly produced results. The Vätternrundan organisation was also grateful that many participants respected the recommendation to rest after finishing, and that their request for good weather seemed to have been heard.
On Thursday, 15 June, Vättern GP was held in central Motala and was won by Lucas Persson of Team Mälarenergi.
The anniversary ride brought rain, sun, and a festival atmosphere
The finish on Saturday in Motala offered wonderful weather, and the beautiful Stadsparken looked its best. Many lingered on the grass, enjoying food while the talented students from the Music School entertained in the afternoon. It was summer, sunshine, and a cheerful festival atmosphere. By midnight, when the Vätternrundan leadership met the last cyclists at the finish, the jubilee celebration and this year’s ride were summed up as very successful. Eleven pioneers started and completed the 40th edition of the ride.
The festivities had begun the day before with an extensive world-class music program in the town square, concluding with a well-attended opening ceremony where everyone who had contributed to Vätternrundan’s development over the years was honoured. They were awarded by the organising association, Motala AIF, with an exclusive miniature of the artwork Vätternrundan. Motala celebrated its jubilee in grand style. Just as County Governor Björn Eriksson declared the ride officially open, the sky opened and the rain began to fall. Surely, many thought, “not again…” The rain continued throughout Friday evening, and cyclists who started in the first hours faced a very wet ride.
Around 900 cyclists withdrew, many likely due to the weather. Some were taken to hospital with minor injuries, but no serious incidents occurred. From this perspective, the jubilee ride can still be considered a success, thanks in large part to the efforts of the dedicated volunteers and the support from the police.
Outside the official race, Team SK Rye set an official record on Vätternrundan’s current course: 6:41:45. Team captain Björn Hamre said after crossing the finish line on Friday morning that it had gone fantastically well, despite a minor fall.
The 39th Vätternrundan – one of the wetter editions
15,080 cyclists started from a gray and rainy Motala. The rain accompanied them throughout the approximately 300-kilometre ride around Lake Vättern, and 13,450 brave participants arrived at the finish in Motala, tired, wet, and cold. This year, the final stretch into Motala took cyclists via Lemunda due to the new 2+1 road—a beautiful route in good weather.
Despite the challenging conditions, many reported being satisfied, especially with the support from the volunteers. No serious incidents were reported, and overall the event ran smoothly, even though the weather created extra demands. Twice as many sweep buses had to be deployed. After last year’s accident, the police concentrated their efforts this year, which produced good results, and the cooperation between Vätternrundan, the police, and the Swedish Transport Administration worked very well.
Violation of the six-hour rule caused a serious and tragic accident
A total of 15,424 cyclists started, setting a new participation record. Of these, 2,314 were women, also a new record. In percentage terms, this represents a 14% increase compared to 2002 and more than 25% compared to 2001.
The first cyclists reached the finish in Motala at 5:45 a.m. on Saturday morning, and just before midnight the last riders crossed the eagerly awaited finish line. In total, 14,598 participants finished, slightly fewer than the previous year.
The weather was generally good for the cyclists throughout most of the ride. A headwind to Jönköping made the first part a little tougher than usual, but Saturday’s conditions were nearly ideal. Some riders encountered light rain, and around lunchtime a severe thunderstorm passed through the northern part of the Västgöta side.
Unfortunately, a tragic and entirely unnecessary accident occurred near the end of the ride. A motorist crossed to the wrong side of the road at Stora Forsa, about 30 kilometres north of Motala, and collided with a group of cyclists. One participant from Germany was killed, and four from Denmark were injured, two seriously. The driver responsible for the accident had previously ridden Vätternrundan and was on the way home.
All cyclists in Vätternrundan agree to follow the race rules, which include resting for at least six hours before getting behind the wheel.
Calm, third environmental certification, and Bylin back at the altar
A new participation record was set as 15,314 of 17,781 registered cyclists started Vätternrundan – the highest number in the 37-year history. A total of 14,647 riders completed the 300-kilometre course, also a new record. “We are very pleased; this year’s ride has been one of the calmest ever,” said Secretary General Jan Svensson. Only 667 cyclists withdrew, and no serious injuries occurred. Twenty-eight riders required hospital care for issues including concussions, fractures, and heart problems.
The weather was generally favourable, around 10°C with light winds. Heavy rain on Saturday evening affected only the last cyclists on the course. Unfortunately, two participants died in a car accident just south of Vadstena shortly after finishing. “It is extremely tragic,” said Svensson, urging everyone to respect the six-hour rule after the ride.
For the third consecutive year, Vätternrundan received environmental certification. Participants were given bags to reduce litter, and the organisers work with suppliers to protect wildlife and nature.
The anniversary edition also featured a wedding – the Bylins are back! Daughter Ann-Sofie Bylin married Eric Pontius during the ride, starting in a special group at 19:00 from Stora Torget in Motala, with the ceremony held at Gyllen Uttern using the same lace bridal crown as her parents’ 1969 wedding. After the ceremony, the couple continued cycling, and the celebration took place the next day at the family home in Grankulla, Motala.
Nearly 15,000 start. Chip timing introduced.
The 36th Vätternrundan concluded just before midnight as the last cyclists crossed the finish line in Motala. Of 17,701 registered, 14,949 started, and 14,274 completed the ride under nearly ideal conditions. “We are very pleased,” said Secretary General Jan Svensson, praising the 2,700 volunteers who support cyclists throughout the 29-hour event.
A total of 675 riders withdrew, which is normal. Around 40 participants required hospital care, mostly for scrapes and injuries from falls in group riding. Two suffered femur or pelvic fractures, and one injured spinal vertebrae, but no lasting injuries are expected. One cyclist left the road after violating the six-hour rest rule, though fortunately without serious consequences.
For the first time, chip timing was used to record start and finish times, with intermediate splits in Hjo and Medevi. Chips, attached to the leg, were registered via antenna mats, providing real-time information at info terminals and online. Fourteen pioneers – riders who have completed every edition – also reached the finish.
19 nations and 15,000 starters
Never before have so many started Vätternrundan as in the 35th edition – over 15,000. The race went well, except for the early starters who faced heavy rain, cold, and headwinds. A total of 997 participants withdrew, but transport and support worked very well, thanks to Vätternrundan’s volunteers.
Unfortunately, one man in his 60s suffered cardiac arrest a few miles from the finish in Motala and passed away. Among the pioneers from the first edition in 1966, 17 participated for the 35th time.
The start day featured extra festivities with the Postgirot stage start from the town square in Motala, attracting a record crowd. In total, 19 nations were represented this jubilee year. Altogether, over 300,000 rides have now been completed – equivalent to nine million miles, 2,246 laps around the Earth, or 188 round trips to the Moon.
Best possible conditions
The 34th Vätternrundan set new records, with 14,841 participants starting and 14,295 finishing. The cyclists came from 25 countries, most of them from Sweden, and 2,000 were women—the highest number ever.
Weather conditions were excellent, with sunshine, light southwesterly winds, and daytime temperatures around 20°C. During the night, the temperature dropped to about 11°C.
An accident near the end of the race, in which four cyclists were struck by a car, was the only negative incident in an otherwise very successful event. Despite this, the number of injuries was lower than usual, indicating that safety efforts have been effective.
A total of 17 cyclists have completed every Vätternrundan to date, and during this year’s race they surpassed 10,000 kilometers ridden around Lake Vättern. The first cyclist finished at 5:07 a.m., and the last at 11:50 p.m.
Records for the Vätternrundan were broken once again
No fewer than 14,622 cyclists from 22 countries took part in the 33rd Vätternrundan, which was naturally a new record—both for registered participants and finishers. Overall, the ride was excellent, but for those who started later at night, the headwind on the stretch toward Jönköping made it challenging, and the temperatures were rather low. The final four miles to the finish in Motala were also tough, and 875 cyclists chose to abandon the race, more than usual.
The event also featured several well-known participants. Dance band king Thorleif Thorstensson and swimming champion Anders Holmertz took part, but the greatest attention went to slalom legend Ingemar Stenmark, who, together with his brother Jan, crossed the finish line after about eleven and a half hours—having completed 130 training miles beforehand.
The 18 Vätternrundan pioneers completed the race for the 33rd time. The cycling community in Motala also hosted its fourth event this year. MTB-Vättern had its debut with start and finish in Borensberg on a tough course mainly running through the Kvarn/Prästtomta military area.
The ride on the mild June night
This, the world’s largest recreational cycling event, has offered participants varying conditions since its inception in 1966. Some editions have been quite challenging, but most have enjoyed fine weather. The 32nd edition came to be known as “The Ride of the Mild Night.” The brief showers on Saturday were felt by most as nothing more than refreshing. Only just over 500 of the 14,140 starters chose to abandon the race.
This was also the year when the 250,000th participant crossed the finish line in Motala—Gudmund Toijer from Saltsjöbaden, who had just completed his 13th ride.
Two former star cyclists were also present this year. Bernt Johansson rode solo to the finish as early as 5:30 a.m. on Saturday morning, while Tommy Prim took it considerably more leisurely on a tandem with his wife Eivor.
The remaining 18 Vätternrundan pioneers completed their 32nd ride. Ahead of this year’s event, the magazine Cykla was launched—a publication for recreational cyclists, issued by Vätternrundan—and it became Sweden’s largest cycling magazine with a circulation of 50,000 from its very first issue.
Yet another great cycling celebration
The 31st Vätternrundan was held under favorable weather conditions, despite an unusually poor early summer. Interest was as high as ever, and a new registration record was nearly set. For the second year in a row, over 13,000 cyclists reached the finish.
At the opening ceremony in the town square, Östergötland’s newly appointed governor, Björn Eriksson, gave a speech to a large audience. Vätternrundan 1996 also made sports history: for the first time, a Swedish sporting event was online, allowing virtually the whole world to follow the race. During the Vätternrundan days, over 10,000 online connections were made.
Nearly 14,000 starters in the 30th Vätternrundan
The jubilee ride turned out to be exactly the success the organizers had expected. The weather was fairly good, and most participants completed the 30 mils (300 km) without getting many raindrops on them. Some, however, were unlucky and rode through rain mile after mile along the Västgöta side.
For the first time, there was an official opening at Stora torget, with a speech by Governor Rolf Wirtén and fanfares as the Vätternrundan flag was raised. Just in time for the jubilee, Motala Tidning published a content-rich commemorative book. A new feature for participants was the passage over the new Hammarsundsbron bridge.
Gunnar Sjöberg from Saltsjö-Duvnäs won first prize in the jubilee lottery: an Eddy Merckx racing bike worth 22,000 SEK. The first cyclist crossed the finish line at 5:31 a.m., and the last passed the finish area at two minutes to midnight.
Cold, sunny, and trouble-free
Vätternrundan was a cold, sunny, and trouble-free ride. Over 12,800 cyclists from 17 countries started, once again cementing Vätternrundan’s position as the world’s largest recreational cycling event. Just over 500 cyclists abandoned the race, mostly due to the cold during the night. In some places, temperatures dropped below zero—at Medevi, the juice in a hose even froze overnight!
“The best-trained cyclists always cope best when it’s a bit chilly,” said the race doctor, Jörgen Larsson. After all, rain is worse. The reputation of the event spreads worldwide, and this year a new nation participated: Estonia.
Gunvor Mildenberger from Gagnef in Dalarna, 63 years old, became the oldest female debutant to date. He now has only Vätternrundan left to complete his “klassiker.” Ivar Hammartun, 81 years old, participated in his 21st ride. Initiator Ewert Rydell had to sit this year out, but despite a coronary artery operation a few weeks earlier, he was present to see the 23 pioneers start.
At the town square, Uffe Holmertz hosted a live TV4 show.
Female cyclist from Örebro becomes 200,000th to finish
“Best rainy ride so far.” That was the verdict from many of Vätternrundan’s cyclists after the 28th edition—a rating that can still be seen as positive. This year’s ride ranks among the four toughest in the event’s history, although 1981, 1985, and 1991 were even harder.
Encouragingly, the number of registered participants has risen again, now over 15,600. Only 559 cyclists abandoned the race, a very low percentage. One death due to illness was a tragic event in an otherwise grand cycling celebration.
At the finish on Vätterpromenaden, the 200,000th participant since the start in 1966 was welcomed. It was Ylva Björnör from Örebro, who received a gift and flowers.
This was also the year when Monark’s test cyclist Bobbi Thorén, after completing the 30-mil ride, went out for an additional lap around Lake Vättern—but no longer as an official participant. Ewert Rydell had to skip the ride for the first time due to a troublesome sciatic nerve, yet he remains the only person to have completed 29 rounds, including the trial rides in 1964 and 1965.
Gunbrith makes history
For the second time in the 27-year history of Vätternrundan, the number of registrations decreased, by about 800 participants. Was it the newly launched Tjej-Vättern that drew cyclists away from the main Vätternrundan? No, that’s unlikely. The generally poor economy and last year’s terrible weather are more probable explanations.
As soon as the Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI) promised good weather, interest returned, and cyclists arrived at the start in large numbers. It turned into another great cycling celebration. Only once before, in 1990, had more participants reached the finish in Motala after completing the 30-mil ride than this year.
One of the standout achievers was Gunbrith Skoog from Mjölby, who made history by becoming the first woman to complete her 25th Vätternrundan. She missed the first ride in 1966 and had to abandon in 1974, but otherwise has cycled the route every year.
This was also the year that a team of professional masseurs from SMRF was present at six rest stops as a complement to the Red Cross staff. At the finish, light beer was served in mugs instead of bottles.
Olympic protection
The Olympic Flag is Raised in Motala! This year, Vätternrundan was selected as one of only eight mass-participation events worldwide to receive the Olympic Committee’s “Sport for All” award. Ceremonies were held at Stora Torget and the start area in Motala, as well as at the rest stops in Jönköping and Hjo. Stig “Stickan” Pettersson, member of the Swedish Olympic Committee, was present to honor this world’s largest recreational cycling event in true Olympic fashion.
The honor was followed by the IOC’s honorary medal, awarded to dedicated individuals and companies involved with Vätternrundan, as well as to Motala Municipality, Motala AIF, Motala Tidning, and the Swedish Cycling Federation.
Otherwise, the ride was rainy and very windy. Many found the 30-mil ride exhausting and opted to take a bus back to Motala. To manage this, 60 buses and 60 trucks were deployed, costing the organizers approximately 400,000 SEK extra. Many of those who continued riding kept the masseurs at the rest stops busy. Still, nearly 12,000 cyclists completed the race!
Vätternrundan doctors pleased with the event
Vätternrundan Just Keeps Growing, this year, over 13,000 cyclists took part. It’s fantastic that so many can ride so disciplined. Jörgen Larsson, Vätternrundan’s doctor for the past 22 editions, described the 25th ride as one of the very best in terms of injury safety. He has personally played a large role in the safety efforts. Throughout the years, he has consistently emphasized the importance of taking it easy, being friendly on the road, and wearing a helmet.
Police Commissioner Lars-Olof Ulterman praised the organizers for their focus on safety. Thirty-two participants completed their 25th ride. At the same time, on the initiative of Bengt Ljungman from Stockholm, the Vätternrundan Veterans Club was established, allowing anyone who has completed 25 rides to join.
Ahead of this jubilee ride, Chairman Ingemar Gustafson presented Vätternrundan’s jubilee donation of 35,000 SEK to the Sten-Otto Liljedahl Memorial Fund. The gift was received by his son Peter Liljedahl and Dr. Jörgen Larsson.
In the large jubilee lottery, Sune Karlsson from Rimbo won a car with his starting number.
Personalities in the ride
Notable Figures in the Ride, a governor, a motor racing legend, and a national cross-country ski athlete – there were three very different personalities in the 24th Vätternrundan. Governor Rolf Wirtén caught the cycling bug after a successful ride last year. From England and Felixtown came Varg-Olle Nygren, recently turned 60 and with 1,350 training kilometers under his belt. And then there was ski athlete Marie Johansson, now Mrs. Gunde Svan, aiming to become En Svensk Klassiker.
The ride went much like most others: brilliant weather, a great atmosphere, and good spirits. Of the pioneers from 1966, 32 remain.
A remarkable debut came from retired captain Magni Gunvén from Stockholm, who at 79 years old rode for the first time. Meanwhile, the couple Leif and Anna-Karin Bylin celebrated the 20th anniversary of their unusual wedding during a Vätternrundan.
The food stop in Hjo stocked 75,000 meatballs, 3 tons of potatoes, 3,600 liters of milk, 800 liters of sauce, 350 kg of pickled cucumbers, and 700 kg of lingonberry jam. Four cyclists had to withdraw from the start after their bicycles were stolen on Friday evening.
The Governor’s Second Ride
The Governor of Östergötland, Rolf Wirtén, became the most talked-about name when the 23rd Vätternrundan was completed in favorable weather, setting a new participant record.
“This will be my third ride,” explained the “governor,” who as a young man cycled around Lake Vättern and later completed the Vätternrundan for real in the early 1970s.
Cyclists have rarely had better weather: a mild Friday evening, light winds throughout, a comfortably cool night, and a not-too-warm Saturday.
Despite the good conditions—perhaps even a bit too good, causing some to ride too fast—there were a few incidents that resulted in hospital visits.
“The helmet requirement doesn’t protect against everything, but we of course follow up on all injuries and continue to work on safety in the event,” said Vätternrundan doctor Jörgen Larsson.
Cold and windy ride
This was the year when Vätternrundan got a new chairman and a new Liljedahl took bib number 1. When Carl-Uno Johansson had moved from Motala, the role was passed on to Ingemar Gustafson, who, with his extensive experience from previous rides, took over as chairman. At the same time, Peter Liljedahl took bib number 1 and also completed a delayed wedding ride together with his wife Maud.
The ride turned out to be a cold and windy affair—a continuation of a chilly spring that had caused many to refrain from their training rides. Despite this, cyclists from 15 countries came to the start. New countries in the event’s statistics were Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia, and Luxembourg. Of the so-called “iron group,” who had participated in every ride, 38 cyclists still remained.
Over 12,000 cyclists finished.
As early as March, the organizers were forced to stop further registrations—the limit for the year had been reached. The event manager, Jan Svensson, was pleased with new record figures, as well as the increasing number of women participating in Vätternrundan. The number of international cyclists also continued to grow.
The 21st Vätternrundan was held in good weather, free from serious accidents and without rain or strong winds. It was also the year when computers made their debut. The traditional notice board disappeared and was replaced by computers in a small red kiosk near the finish area.
The number of volunteers had now grown to 2,500 to manage the event. At the age of 75, Roland Dackert completed his first ride. The oldest participant, however, was 79-year-old Albert Nylén from Nossebro. Anna G. Ringqvist was the oldest female participant, just over 70 years old, and took part in her 17th ride.
Rain, rain, and more rain.
The Jubilee Ride, the 20th Vätternrundan since its start in 1966, became the toughest, hardest, and wettest in the event’s history. In pouring rain and strong winds, nearly 13,000 cyclists completed the ride, but the dropout rate was high, with 2,476 forced to abandon. Thus, two records were set: most starters – most dropouts.
Of the 334 who completed the first ride, 40 were now registered for their 20th 30-mil ride in Vätternrundan. The oldest in the group was Sten Törnqvist from Linköping, aged 75. Sten-Otto Liljedahl’s memory was honored with a donation to his memorial fund for research and rehabilitation of traffic accident victims. In the Jubilee Ride, Sten-Otto’s daughter Eva rode with bib number 1, and Ewert Rydell (nr 2) participated together with his daughter Annica and granddaughter Gunilla. The Governor of Östergötland, Göte Svensson, honored the jubilee by riding as a lead master ahead of the first start group, along the stretch from the start to Vadstenavägen.
Mora-Nisse and the mandatory helmets.
Safety first – hence the helmet requirement. This was the message to the 13,941 cyclists registered for Vätternrundan in 1984. A record, of course! “We have received very few protests,” noted the new chairman of the Vätternrundan organization, Carl-Uno Johansson, who took over from Hans Hadenius, who had led the event for seven years.
Few accidents, excellent cycling weather, and a record number of finishers marked the outcome of this year’s ride. The helmet requirement was also considered a reason why serious head injuries were avoided.
A popular guest in Motala during this ride was 67-year-old “Mora-Nisse” Karlsson, representing the veteran colleagues from Vasaloppet. Strangely, the event’s sponsor, the Monark Crescent Group, reported a sharply reduced profit despite the growing interest in cycling – including 41,000 fewer bicycles sold! Forty-three pioneers, i.e., riders who had completed all the rides held so far, were still active in Vätternrundan.
Bib number 1 is missing
The 18th Vätternrundan was marked by the absence of its founder and prominent figure, Sten-Otto Liljedahl, who had passed away in the autumn of 1982 following another heart attack. At the start on Friday evening, Thore Pettersson, chairman of the municipal council, paid tribute to Sten-Otto’s importance in the creation and development of Vätternrundan. From this year onward, bib number 1 would only be used by close relatives of Sten-Otto Liljedahl.
This year’s ride, a new record event with over 10,000 participants for the first time, was completed under perfect conditions – the best ride so far. It was not too cold at night and pleasantly warm during the day. Bengt Malm from Linköping took part in his 12th ride and was celebrated as the 100,000th registered participant in the event’s history.
Of those who took part in the inaugural 1966 ride, 43 pioneers were still active, completing their 18th Vätternrundan. It was also the year when participants learned to keep an eye on their bikes – the police received reports of six stolen bicycles over the weekend.
Eleven nations represented.
What do a year of planning, 1,400 volunteers, and 102,000 buns have in common? Vätternrundan, of course. The event manager, Jan Svensson, now has three full-time employees at his office to handle all the preparations.
Would last year’s “horror ride” scare away the crowds from the 17th Vätternrundan? No, on the contrary – interest was greater than ever. It was also the year when the founder, Professor Sten-Otto Liljedahl, had to sit out. A mild heart attack just over a week before the ride prevented him from taking bib number 1.
From the sidelines, the legendary “Steel Grandpa” Gustav Håkansson, now 96 years old, watched the ride. This year, 601 riders from eleven nations were registered. Martti Knuutila cycled to and from Sundsvall, 122 mil, to be able to participate in Vätternrundan. Gösta Fåglum also took part this year, together with a test quartet from the MCB Group.
A real horror ride
Then came the horror ride that everyone remembers—and loves to talk about. The 16th Vätternrundan became a true ordeal, both for cyclists and volunteers. Friday evening and the night turned out exactly as the weather forecast had warned: strong winds approaching storm force, biting cold, pouring rain, and snow showers.
The dropout rate was high. Nearly 2,500 cyclists did not even start. Of those who braved the elements in the start groups before midnight, many chose to abandon the race after just 43 km, at Hästholmen. In total, 1,255 participants were forced to quit.
And what a challenge for the organizers! SMHI had promised better weather on Friday evening, but the change did not come until the early hours. Those who started after 3 a.m. experienced normal conditions. Remarkably, over 6,500 still completed the ride!
“I am impressed by the way the cyclists endured these hardships,” said Jörgen Larsson, Vätternrundan’s doctor.
The fifteenth ride
Ahead of the 15th edition of the world’s largest recreational cycling event, the organizers painted a “portrait” of the average participant in this exclusive recreational sport: a male former athlete who had trained 1,250 km this year on a ten-speed, Swedish-made bicycle!
The survey was conducted among the 55 cyclists who had participated in all previous Vätternrundan rides. It turned out to be a jubilee ride of the highest standard, with brilliant weather, great atmosphere, and as usual, record participation. Over 9,300 cyclists had registered, and the quality of the ride was evident as only 206 participants abandoned.
This year also marked the beginning of cooperation with the Skandinavialoppet. The Danes had now truly “discovered” Vätternrundan – 429 were registered this year. Schools, gymnasiums, and campsites were overcrowded.
“The Vätternrundan cyclists are well-behaved, calm, and friendly,” noted Folke Johansson, head of Z-parken. The growing event required more and more volunteers – this year over 1,200 stepped up. In the town square and around the center, everything was as usual: the Bicycle Market in the shops, and Bengt Bedrup was responsible for entertainment on the stage at Stora torget.
Over 9,000 registered!
A new record ride. For the first time, event manager Jan Svensson counted 9,009 registered participants. It was a fairly trouble-free ride with good cycling weather. Only 200 riders had to abandon, which is unusually low considering the large number of starters.
About a hundred police officers were on duty during the Vätternrundan, especially monitoring the northern “final section” of the course, where bottlenecks tend to occur, according to County Police Chief Lennart Palmér. The cyclists handled themselves admirably.
The pioneers in this 14th ride numbered 58. It was a special commemorative ride for Anna-Karin and Leif Byhlin, celebrating their ten-year wedding anniversary, although their children Ann-Sofie (9) and Anders (4) stayed home this time. In the special group from the town square, Fritz Andersson from Motala was the senior at 78 years old.
“I’ve cycled about 1,000 km, and that should be enough,” said the health-conscious Fritz, who has his own recipe for staying in shape and completing Vätternrundan.
“Avoid alcohol, cigarettes, and marriage, and you’ll do fine!”
The first group jumped the start
In true Vasaloppet style, there was a false start in the 13th edition of Vätternrundan. An eager cyclist in the first group set off three minutes ahead of schedule, taking the entire pack with him. But what did it matter!
This was also the year the organization got a new chairman. Hans Hadenius succeeded Lennart Brask, who had held top responsibility for the first 12 years.
Weather was a major concern for this year’s race, and indeed it turned out to be a day many remember with horror. Frosty enough for ice to form in the water bottles during the night, along with a biting wind on the way back to the finish in Motala. A cyclist heading home after completing the ride collided head-on just north of Medevi with two cyclists on their way to the finish. One of them, a 35-year-old man from Uppsala, died on the way to the hospital.
Alice Hedhin, 67 years old, completed her 13th ride and is one of the 56 cyclists who have participated in every Vätternrundan since the beginning. Östergötland had the most registered cyclists with 1,610, followed by Stockholm with 1,186, Skaraborg with 600, and Jönköping County with 648.
Italian cycling superstars in the ride
The performance of three Italian professional cyclists is perhaps the most memorable aspect of the 12th Vätternrundan. It was also a new record ride, both because the number of participants increased unexpectedly and because it became the fastest ride ever around Vättern.
One of the world’s top cyclists, Francesco Moser, together with his support riders Renato Marcetto and Claudio Betolotto, aimed to break Gösta Fåglum’s record of 6 hours and 42 minutes. The trio started as early as 7 p.m. from the town square. After an impressive chase, drafting, and high pace, Francesco reached Motala in an incredible 6 hours and 23 minutes.
This year also saw the introduction of the “En Svensk Klassiker” diploma, which likely contributed to the increased interest. In addition, nearly 100 foreign cyclists participated. The volunteer staff had now grown to 900 people. About 60 percent of the bikes were racing bikes, and doctor Jörgen Larsson was considering whether mandatory helmets should be introduced.
A calm and pleasant “ride”
For the first time since its start in 1966, the trend of constantly breaking registration records in Vätternrundan was interrupted. Had the ride now reached its limit? The number of participants who actually started was exactly the same as the previous year.
According to most observers, this year’s ride was a calm and pleasant journey around Vättern. “Clearly the best ride so far, it was neither too hot nor too cold,” said pioneer K-G Bergvall from Motala. On the injury front, it was better than in several years, although there was one fatality. A 64-year-old man from Skaraborg was found dead at the roadside in the Fagerhult area, likely due to a heart attack.
The oldest in the special group that started from the town square was 76-year-old Nils Rommel from Jönköping. Ruben Lundberg from the county traffic group followed Vätternrundan in a police helicopter and gave the event very high marks.
The tenth Vätternrundan
Friday, June 13, 1975. Would the jubilee ride turn out to be unlucky, or…? It became a ride with both joy and sorrow. Joy over a new organizational success and a new participation record, and sorrow over Vätternrundan’s first fatality. A participant was hit from behind by a private car on a straight stretch between Karlsborg and Olshammar, strangely enough while he was alone on the road at the time.
The ride that year was cold and windy, and many described it as tough. Remarkably, 97 riders from the very first ride in 1966 were still participating, including two women: Alice Hedhin from Uddevalla and Ewa Eriksson from Stockholm. Among those who completed the jubilee ride was Gösta “Fåglum” Pettersson, who rode a tandem with a friend.
This was also the year when the police inspected cyclists’ lighting particularly carefully.
Then Vätternrundan turned around
The ninth ride goes down in history as the year the route was reversed. Riding clockwise may seem natural, but before the race, there were many opinions against this change. The reversal, requested in part by the police authority, turned out to be a success. No crossing left turns and several new and improved aid station solutions made the course smoother. The exit from the start via Vätternpromenaden through the city park and the entrance to the finish on Vätternpromenaden became real highlights.
It was a beautiful and sunny ride, although somewhat windy. The wind, however, defeated radio entertainers Fredrik Burman and Bengt Nordlund, who abandoned in Hjo. Statistics show participants from seven other countries, in addition to the Nordic neighbors, including Switzerland, Germany, the Netherlands, and England.
The oldest participant that year was Karl “Kalle-Viktor” Andersson from Motala, 81 years old. Vätternrundan’s doctor, Jörgen Larsson, noted after the ride that cyclists are getting better trained and gradually learning to ride correctly in mass-participation events like this.
The Gunder Hägg Ride
The legendary running star Gunder Hägg, now 55 years old, became the main figure of the eighth Vätternrundan when he took on the challenge of cycling the 300 km for the first time. Bib number 5, Gunder Hägg, was accompanied by another celebrity, Eric “Still-in-Bed” Sandström.
Among the spectators was another notable person: 85-year-old journalist Torsten Tegnér, founder of Idrottsbladet and son of Alice Tegnér.
It goes without saying that 1973 set a new participation record – every ride seems to become a record ride these days. This year saw a thousand more starters than the previous year. Vätternrundan is also becoming increasingly international, and the reputation of this enjoyable ride around Vättern has spread far down into Europe.
The oldest participant this year was 82-year-old Ivan Stendahl from Katrineholm, who had cycled 1,500 km in training before the start.
Over 3,000 finished
Interest in Vätternrundan continues to grow, and this year marked the start of the En Svensk Klassiker collaboration. Another record was set: 3,353 registered participants, despite a chilly spring that limited training opportunities. It was a fine ride, and the cyclists were praised for their conduct on the roads – the weather was once again on the sunny side.
Motorists on the roads around Vättern also received positive remarks. However, ahead of the ride, there had been a debate in the media about whether recreational races should be banned, due to several fatal accidents and serious incidents earlier in the spring, both in skiing and smaller cycling events. “Show more consideration on the roads,” urged Sten-Otto Liljedahl – and he meant all road users.
Of the starters, 82 were forced to abandon the ride for one reason or another in this seventh edition.
Headwind and chilly
Never before had Vätternrundan run so smoothly, summarized Lennart Brask, chairman of the organizing committee, after this year’s ride. Another registration record was set, and only 67 participants were forced to abandon.
It should be noted that the last 120 km from Jönköping to the finish faced strong headwinds, chilly weather, and occasional rain. Despite this, the official results – as timing was recorded back then – show no fewer than 36 riders completing the ride in under nine hours.
The cycling doctor himself, Sten-Otto Liljedahl, rode together with six medical colleagues from the regional hospital in Linköping. Party Secretary Sten Andersson completed the challenge with difficulty.
Before the start, Bengt Bedrup provided popular entertainment at Stora torget. Gösta Ollén from Expressen nearly exhausted the organizers by taking 44 hours and 10 minutes to complete the ride around Vättern.
The first rain-soaked ride
The first jubilee ride, the fifth Vätternrundan, was without a doubt the toughest so far. It was windy, rainy, and stormy. Despite this, interest was very high – so high that the organizers could not accommodate everyone who wanted to participate.
Unfortunately, many cyclists were overly competitive, riding side by side and in large groups. 63 riders were forced to abandon, and seven of these ended up in the hospital with injuries including broken collarbones and rib fractures.
Among the well-known participants were football brothers Knut and Bertil Nordahl, both with professional and national team experience. “Tougher than playing football,” said Bertil, admitting he was probably undertrained.
Last year’s newlyweds, Anna-Karin and Leif Byhlin, celebrated their first wedding anniversary by riding Vätternrundan again. Despite the weather, the feedback on this fifth edition was very positive.
The Wedding Ride
This year’s ride, the fourth edition, broke all records. Nowhere in the world had a larger recreational cycling event been organized, with nearly 2,000 registered participants. “We had to set a limit here,” said Lennart Brask, chairman of the organizing committee, fully aware of the importance of a well-run event.
This year saw five brothers from Switzerland and two Norwegians testing the adventure. But the biggest surprise was arranged by PR manager Lars Lidberg – he organized a wedding in the middle of the ride. The couple most likely to remember the 1969 ride is Leif and Anna-Karin Byhlin: engaged at the start, married at the finish in Motala 15 hours later. The simple “cycling wedding” took place without fuss at Gyllene Uttern in Gränna.
On the celebrity list this year were legendary Tre Kronor ice hockey goalie Leif “Honken” Holmqvist and a certain number 317, Wilhelm Malmberg, better known as singer and actor Jan Malmsjö. Once again, the ride benefited from wonderful weather, though the night was slightly chilly. This was also the year that, for the first time, a group of older cyclists was sent off from Stora torget three and a half hours before the first official start.
Debut on the right side
The third edition of Vätternrundan was held Friday and Saturday, June 14–15, 1968. Another participation record was set. After the switch to right-hand traffic in the autumn of 1967, cyclists now rode on the right side, but still counterclockwise around Vättern, heading north after the start.
Several aid stations were moved to more suitable locations. Another novelty was that, for the first time, participants could send letters or postcards from Motala and have them stamped with a special Vätternrundan postmark.
It was a true test of endurance, as Saturday brought summer weather with high temperatures and heavy fluid loss. “Cyclists sweat away between six and eight liters,” the ride doctor told the press.
Among the participants were once again Oskar “Stålmorfar” Olsson, now 82, Expressen’s recreational cycling phantom Gösta Ollén, and a group of Social Democratic parliamentarians led by Minister Sven Moberg. Roads were becoming crowded with cyclists, and the police estimated that as many as 100,000 people were out along the roads around the lake.
Over 1,000 registered
The success of the inaugural year set a perfect benchmark. Word of the excellent organization spread, and when invitations for the second Vätternrundan were sent out in late winter, many were eager to participate. A total of 1,052 registrations came in before the start, tripling the number from 1966.
The volunteer staff was expanded to handle all services from start to finish, now numbering around 400. The inaugural year’s ban on “derailleur gears” – that is, racing bikes – had been lifted. No fewer than 37 women were registered.
Particular attention was drawn to the start of 81-year-old Oskar “Stålmorfar” Olsson. The spry and determined man from Hässleholm completed the challenge, but it took him 24 hours and 6 minutes to return to the finish on Sjögatan above the city park. About ten members of parliament also participated, following Sten-Otto Liljedahl’s invitation.
The weather was generally favorable – a bit chilly at night and with headwinds on the Västgötasidan down to Jönköping – but Saturday brought sunshine and fine conditions. Friday evening’s Hjulmarknad in Motala attracted over 5,000 people, thanks in part to radio and TV personality Lennart Hyland providing entertainment at Stora torget.
The inaugural ride
The year was 1966, and it was Friday, June 17. It was time for the premiere of Vätternrundan – a 300 km one-stage recreational cycling event, with start and finish in Motala, organized by Motala AIF. Recreational ride or madness? Disaster or success? The questions were as many as the opinions ahead of the inaugural ride.
But the initiators – professor, sports doctor, and Motala native Sten-Otto Liljedahl, along with bike shop owner Ewert Rydell – could assure that there was no real danger. “As long as you treat the ride as a recreational tour and have 400–500 km of training in your legs,” they said.
Was there interest in this test of endurance? Absolutely – it was a success from the very start. The weather was glorious, and at 9:43 PM on Saturday, the last cyclist crossed the finish line.
