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The Latin American Motorcycle Association (LAMA) was founded in 1977 by Mario Nieves as an organization of motorcycle riders of mainly Spanish speaking origins. The organization has approximately 5,000 members; presently 63 chapters in 10 countries throughout the world: USA (29), Venezuela (5), Puerto Rico (6), Mexico (16), Cuba (3), Argentina (4), Uruguay (1), Spain (1), Australia (1) and Germany (1). LAMA is in the process of opening additional chapters in Colombia, Peru, and the West Coast of the United States. At this moment they are the largest national and international organization of motorcyclists representing persons of mainly Latin origin.

In February, Born To Ride joined the LAMA Tampa Chapter for a BTR television taping and photo shoot to celebrate their 2 nd anniversary. Attorney Fran Haasch, Brandon Harley-Davidson, Bikers Bay and WaMu Bank were there to sponsor the worthy cause. BYAKO Inc supplied the music, while tattoo artists, vendors, 50/50 drawings, games and dancing kept the party going all-day. “The Teamsters and Chauffeur’s Local Union No. 79 opened the doors for this event; and at least 1,800- 2,000 bikes came to enjoy the festivities,” said BTR Publisher, Ron Galletti. “The LAMAs are a class act and the know how to throw a family party. If you missed it this year, don’t miss their party next year. Stay connected with Born To Ride to find out what the LAMA Tampa Chapter is planning,” he added.

The next time you see members of the Latin American Motorcycle Association (L.A.M.A. Tampa) riding down the road

“I’m most proud of our members, and the type of people that they are. They are beautiful people — passionate about LAMA and passionate about riding.” - Johnny

in formation, notice the leader of the pack. He’s Johnny Urrutia, founder of LAMA Tampa chapter and president of the chapter since its inception three years ago. When asked about what makes him most proud of starting LAMA Tampa, Johnny doesn’t hesitate: “I’m most proud of our members, and the type of people that they are. They are beautiful people—passionate about LAMA and passionate about riding.”

Johnny’s cousin Eduardo now president of the Florida City chapter introduced him to LAMA founder Mario Nieves in 2005, at the annual party thrown by the LAMA Orlando chapter held every March in tandem with Daytona Bike Week. Inspired by what Mario had created and motivated by the great people he met that day, Johnny didn’t waste any time in forming the Tampa chapter. LAMA Tampa today includes 48 members and continues to grow.

LAMA Tampa members hail from several Latin American countries, including Venezuela, Puerto Rico, Cuba, Colombia, as well as the U.S. While membership is open to everyone regardless of race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion, gender, age, social class, or motorcycle brand—you don’t even need to be of Latin origin or speak Spanish to join—LAMA Tampa is not for everyone. “It takes commitment to be a member in LAMA,” Johnny explains. “This is not just a riding club. We get involved with helping out charities, and all of our members are expected to help and participate. We hold monthly meetings that members are expected to attend, and members are also