The Free Press, Mankato, MN

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June 11, 2009

Finish line changed for bike race

Nature Valley Gran Prix finish line moves to Hickory, Second

MANKATO — Seasoned spectators know the best viewing spots for the Nature Valley Grand Prix bicycle race Saturday will be atop Main Street hill and at the finish line.

But this year, the finish line for the Mankato leg of the race will be at the intersection of Hickory and Second streets, said Liz Sharp, Greater Mankato Growth business events and sales manager. Moving the line was a safety measure made necessary by downtown road construction.

The men’s race starts at 1:15 p.m. Saturday and should finish about 4:35 p.m.; the women’s race starts at 1:50 p.m. and should finish about 5:40 p.m. The Minnesota Iron and Metal Amateur racing starts at 2 p.m. and Shimano/Holgaard Tour de Kids Fun Race starts at 4:45 p.m.

Mankato Road Race is Day Four of the Nature Valley Grand Prix. Fans may watch riders along the 88-mile route in Blue Earth County. Intermediate points are Madison Lake, Eagle Lake, St. Clair, Good Thunder, Lake Crystal and Rapidan.

Greater Mankato Growth’s Minnesota Bicycle Festival’s Expo opens noon Saturday in a city lot near HickoryTech and Wells Fargo bank. The Expo closes about 6 p.m.

More information can be found at www.minnbikefestival.com.

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