Crash Speaks
Well Hello folks. Greetings to one and all.
As I was fortunate enough to
be able to attend the "Rotten Lawton" birthday party and related
festivities, I asked Gary D. if I could comment on the event. He
graciously deferred to my babble and what follows is an overview for
those not fortunate to have been in attendance.
For the early arrivals at Cycle Gear, there was an unexpected bonfire
courtesy of a poor unfortunate young lady who had her car catch fire
right in the parking lot. A few folks, like G-Junky, had to move their
bikes (and clean them) due to the smoke, fire, and fire extinguisher residue.
Fire department finally showed up to squelch the fire and returned to
their war stories and tire kicking. It was about the time the group
decided to start saddling up for the Harley Rock Inn when it was noted
that no one had any 50-50 tickets (where are you when we need you Rob?)
One enterprising member (candy lady Sue) thought to ask the folks at
Cycle gear if they might have any. Well luck was with us and they found
a roll and provided them for a song and a smile. "Thank You Cycle Gear".
'Course when they were finally found in a back room up in a box, the
rest of the group had long since bailed for the ride. That left four
bikes running down the interstate trying to find the rest of the group.
It took a bit of throttle twisting but we managed to catch up with the
back of the pack before they got to the Rock Inn.
We arrived enmasse and proceeded to take all the primo parking spots [think any
Hardley riders showing up might have thought they were at the wrong place.]
The folks at the Rock Inn were gracious and other then some drink order
mix ups (wonder who did end up with that diet coke?) they served some
mighty fine grub. As some folks were not going to be able to continue
for the continuation of the ride, we went ahead and had our 50-50
drawing and a new VRCC couple, Greg & Dawn, came out winners
to the tune 52 smackers. There was also a Valkyrie model and a
set of ear plugs given as consolation prizes to other folks.
Having refreshed ourselves in mind and soul, we took took off and after
skirting the poppy fields, went to Willow Springs Raceway. Harold must
have put in a good word for us, or slipped them something under the
table, as the folks there let us ride all the way up the hill to the
grandstands [best seats in the house] for FREE!! There was a pseudo race
[we think they were just putting lap times for practice] and after
sitting in the hot sun for almost 1/2 hr we decided to go like Don
Quixote and find some windmills to joust. For those of you not able to
attend this well choreographed affair, you really missed some very good
riding trails. Mother Nature cooperated and it turned out to be a great
day to be out on the bikes.
After departing Willow Springs, it was a short jaunt up and over into
Tehachapi and to Harold & Dottie's residence for some more fraternizing
and cake and ice cream. Of course we had to all sing Happy Birthday to
the young Mr. Rotten Lawton. Excellent cake by the way Dottie.
Then to top off the afternoon festivities, Dottie offered to feed those
folks wanting to stick around and share in the friendly gathering.
Our host and hostess really out did themselves and the only regret yours
truly has is that he only has one of these "B-days" a year.
It was almost a shame the day had to end as I feel safe in saying that
everyone had a real fine time.
It was enjoyable in seeing new faces and even and old one or two.
"Was that Marty Rood I just saw?"
I can only say that I was glad to be there and for those that did not
make it, "Wish you could have been there".
Please try to make the next one (Wrightwood), as I'm sure you won't be disappointed.
I know I am going to mark my calendar.
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Well that's it.
Take care, .....
Crash