SIOUX CITY (KTIV) – The Register’s Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa, RAGBRAI, is known for its festive atmosphere, small-town hospitality, and an abundance of beer gardens along the route.
But one first time rider is on a mission to raise awareness for a sober lifestyle.
Birdie Murphy is riding, not just for the challenge, but to raise awareness for ‘The Phoenix’, a national nonprofit that builds sober communities through fitness and connection. She’s trading the party for purpose… and hopes others might join her.
“I think there are more people out there that need a different opportunity on RAGBRAI, and a different reason to ride,” explained Murphy.
The Phoenix offers free fitness programming to anyone with 48 hours of sobriety, fostering a sense of community and support for people in recovery. Birdie’s presence at RAGBRAI, proudly wearing The Phoenix logo, is turning heads and opening conversations.
“Some folks I talk to are almost ashamed like, ‘oh I still drink.’ I’m not telling anyone how to live their life,” Murphy explained. “My goal is to share other opportunities for them.”
That open-mindedness is key to Birdie’s approach.
“I’ve heard amazing stories of somebody’s child, or sibling, or co-worker struggling with addiction and recovery. And, finding that being sober and being in recovery is better for them, and sharing my information with them,” said Murphy.
As Birdie pedals past Iowa’s cornfields, and small towns, she’s planting seeds of hope. And she’s not stopping there.
“I want to get more people to join me. I hope to have team Phoenix ride RAGBRAI next year,” Murphy explained.
You can learn more about The Phoenix here.
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