BISON CLASSIC MOTORCYCLE RALLY 2012
Friday June 29 dawned bright and sunny with a gentle breeze to cool things down. Absolute perfect rally weather. Early members of the organizing committee began arriving at the arena from 10am and the urgent business of getting ready began. Rally signs had been put up at road intersections on the way. Banners and bunting was erected, tables and chairs put out in the dining area, and paraphernalia for the motorcycle games was brought in. Those in charge of catering started preparing their multiple tasks to provide the four meals included in the $45 rally cost.
Soon the motorhomes, camper trailers and tenters on their motorcycles started to drift in, and the Registration table was hard-pressed to cope. The day got hotter but this didn’t stop the participants from enjoying a chili supper and a two-guitar hoot -n -nanny around the bonfire. A banjo joined later and festivities continued on till late.
Saturday 30th was the main day with a Parade through town beginning at 9.30am and culminating with a Show & Shine in the Credit Union parking lot. Over 130 classic and vintage motorcycles registered for the show and the many spectators were not disappointed. There were many more spectators than last year thanks to more local advertising of the event. Motorcycles lined both sides of the main street from bikers who had ridden in just to view the classics on display. The weather played it’s part again and although very hot there was no rain or wind. A local church group did a roaring trade selling bottled water & pop plus delicious farmer sausage buns. The games went off very well and about 130 hungry bikers ended up in the arena for a scrumptious steak or chicken dinner, live music and Trophy awards. The bonfire was again popular till late.
Sunday morning saw two groups ; a slow shorter run for the older classic machines, and a faster, longer ride for the more modern bikes, on a “River Run” and Poker Derby. No less than 42 motorcycles took part with all back at 11am to partake of a delicious sausage, egg and potato Brunch. Packing and cleaning up commenced, final farewells said, and the bikers roared off shouting that they would be back next year!
Another highly successful Bison Classic Rally under the belt with the Rally Committee geared for a “de-briefing” meeting soon and then plans begin right away for the 13th Annual Bison Rally in 2013.
