PHOTOS: Minnesota Ironman Bike Ride

Despite the threat of rain, most riders agreed: Conditions were ideal for this year's 46th Annual Minnesota Ironman Bicycle Ride and Minnesota Gran Fondo.

More than 3,000 participants took off from  on Sunday morning for the annual ride.

Jon Ridge, the executive director of Hostelling International, which organizes the ride, said the mood among this year's riders was excellent.

"It's shaping out to be a great event," he said.

Part race, part bike adventure, the Minnesota Ironman explores Lakeville and some of its southern neighbors by way of five different courses, including 17-, 30-, 50-, 68- and 100-mile routes.

"It's for racers and it's for the family," Ridge said.

The event attracts riders from around the state.

Marsha Hicks, 33, rode the 50-mile course. Coming from Misourri, Hicks said she and her husband have been to Minnesota four times, all for the Ironman.

"We have a group of friends who love to ride and we all come up for it each year," she said. "It's a beautiful ride."

To see this year's results, they'll be available 24 hours after the ride.

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