EXCERPT: “As the ninth annual Mankato River Ramble came to a close Sunday afternoon, it was evident the Greater Mankato Area is on the radar for cyclists not just from Mankato, but also the Twin Cities, greater Minnesota and even neighboring states. Mankato is one of nearly 30 cities in Minnesota classified as “bike friendly” by the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota, and this marked the first time one of the River Ramble routes made its way through the city center. ‘A lot of the riders that are not familiar with Mankato – what they know is Highway 169 – so if we can get them to see what the city is like, it’s good for Mankato,’ said Tom Engstrom, co-director of the event. The three routes began at Land of Memories Park early Sunday morning, and ranged from the 12-mile Minneopa Falls Loop to the 44-mile Lake Crystal Loop. A moderate 26-mile route led riders out to Rapidan Dam and back.” FULL STORY: http://bit.ly/2VkUom8