12th Annual New England VROC Rally
Laconia Bike week was upon us once again. Against all odds, the weather looked to be great. A group of us arrived on Wednesday to set up the Kaw Pasture (Lazy River Campground--
On Thursday morning, fragmented groups went for rides. Some went into
Friday is our big day. After a big breakfast at the Country Cookin’ Diner, we met at the Kaw Pasture to start our Poker Run. The weather had finally broken, and it was HOT. We had 31 bikes and 41 people playing hands. The poker route, led by Ol'Phart Joe is mostly a nice back roads ride, with the first stop about 40 miles in. It gave a good break for drinks as the temp had climbed. The last stop is about another 40 miles and ends at HK Powersports in
The next part of our day wasn’t until 5:30, the CLAP Raffle. We had many great items donated from the VROC supporters below. Of course ROK came thru with great prizes as well. We had over 70 people there, and all were looking over the loot to see what they would pick if their numbers got called. To keep it on the up & up, Ol’Phart Joe’s granddaughter, Morgan, picked the tickets. It was a fun time, and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. After the last of the prizes were given away, the next part of the evening was about to start.
The Pig Roast. Always a favorite, everyone gorged themselves on pork, chicken, baked beans, Mexican rice, and different salads. There was so much food, we had leftovers for Saturday. After everyone ate, people settled down and talked with others who we only see once a year. Some take off for home, others start a Texas Hold’em game, and many sit around the fire, talking, drinking & eating smores.
On Saturday, another breakfast. And another HOT day. There were a couple different groups that went out. One went up to
Sunday morning. Final breakdown and packing up. A very sad day. The last goodbyes are said, and promises to get together more frequently are made. I hate this part every year. As has happened everywhere else VROC has touched, we aren’t saying goodbye to friends, we are saying see ya later to family. We have met some members this year who are just getting to their first VROC rally, and they now understand why we talk as we do on the newsgroup.
Family. What else can I say, except a BIG thank you to all of our supporters and members who show up and make this rally what it really is. A family get together. Without you, this wouldn’t happen. Hope to see you next year, ride safe, be happy.
I want to thank Chris "U-Turn" for partnering this with me. I wouldn't do it without him. Also my wife, Dee, who kept me sane :). Also thanks to Ol'Phart Joe and his wife Karen for being a source of knowledge for us. And Bobcat thought he retired, but is still involved. Thanks.
Please visit the our supporters below, as they have been there for our rally for many years. Thanks to them, we always have a great rally.
Rally Supporters