Bicycle ride will again wind its way through Bootheel

SIKESTON -- The Cotton Ramble is back for a third year this fall -- and organizers have announced more additions.

"We've had really good response so far," said Jackie Cowan, one of the organizers of the Oct. 8 event. Last year, there were more than 200 riders from seven states.

"In fact, a lot of the riders are visitors to our city," she said. "They say that enjoy the gin tours, riding by the cotton, and the flat terrain."

The ride also aims to have something for everyone. iggs Moore, another committee member, said there are four routes -- 2, 13, 26 and 65 miles.

"New this year is the 2-mile Family Fun Ride," he said. "All of these routes start and end at the Depot."

Moore said that last year, the longest route was advertised at 53 miles but, thanks to a bridge closure, had to be changed to 65 miles. However, the cyclists all complimented the route, so it will remain for this year.

Historic Downtown Sikeston is a sponsor of the Cotton Ramble and benefits from the proceeds.

Again this year, there will be a Cotton Festival with food, crafts, entertainment and more at the Legion Square following the ride. Also, there will be a pasta lunch, prepared by Altrusa and House of Refuge staff and volunteers. The House of Refuge will also benefit from all proceeds.

Registration fee for the 13, 26 and 65 mile rides are $15 by Sept. 8 and $20 after. For those 14 and under, the cost is $7 and $10, but they must ride with a registered parent. The Family Fun Ride is $15 for the entire family by Sept. 8, or $20 after that cutoff date. T-shirts will be sold for $15 each, other than adult 2Xlarge, which are $17 each. Special jerseys are in the works as well.

Organizer Ed Cowan said there are several ways to get involved, besides riding. He said people enjoy watching and cheering at the 9 a.m. send off.

"But our No. 1 need is volunteers," Cowan said. "We need people to man intersections, rest stops and be on call in case of emergencies."

In all, 50 to 75 helpers are needed and can be individuals, civic groups or anyone interested. Contributions for the packets provided to riders like coupons or small souvenirs, and door prizes are also being accepted.

This year, the committee is working to promote the event more in the days before it begins. They are asking for old bicycles -- even those that no longer work -- to be donated. Cowan said they will be used as artwork and put up around town just before the ride to advertise the event.

Moore said volunteers and the community are a big part of the success of the Ramble, which organizers hope attracts more than 300 this year.

For more information, go to www.cottonramble.com or call Moore at 475-3725.