Looking for a serious motorcycle event that doesn’t take itself too seriously? Riding Into History is for you. Held every May on the perfectly manicured grounds of the World Golf Village in St. Augustine, Fla., Riding Into History has all the advantages of a world class Concours d’Elegance, and none of the downside in cost or hassle.
Now in its 11th year, the goal is to put on a great show, have fun and make some money for charity in the process. When you arrive at the gate on Saturday morning, you’re greeted by the very professional staff of the BMW Motorcycle Owners of Northeast Florida, who quickly and efficiently process attendees and entrants. The most you can pay is $10 to get in. If you are taking the time and trouble to bring a bike and you made the effort to pre-enter, it’s all free — and you get a goodie bag, to boot. The venue is perfect for a motorcycle show, with winding sidewalks around a mile-long lake that makes an ideal display space. Approximately 350 motorcycles, scooters and antique bicycles came out this year, and the shady trees and a cool May breeze coming off the lake were a bonus to all who attended.
It takes almost 100 volunteers to run the event, including a staff of well-picked judges who sort out the 32 classes that range from Honda 50s to the beautiful 1938 Brough Superior sidecar rig that took home overall honors. By 3 p.m. the judges are giving out the trophies, leaving plenty of time to pick up one of Don Bradley’s superb event posters, shake the hand of Clement Salvadori, who in 2010 joined an illustrious list of RIH Grand Marshalls, and get ready for the evening’s Biker’s Ball.
In 2010 Riding Into History raised $25,000 for the Wounded Warrior Project, adding to it’s total of more than $200,000 it has raised over the past decade for Saint Augustine, Fla., community charities. Want to attend? Riding Into History 2011 will be held on May 20th and 21st and will feature European Motorcycles. On the web at www.ridingintohistory.orgMC