KENNEDY STYLE

STILL NOT NORMAL

The last several months have been trying for all of us. Many of our favorite rides and rallies have been canceled and/ or postponed. And while riding itself is the ultimate social distancing sport, the community of riders congregating for biker events, whether it be for charity, a rally or a poker run is an integral part of that ride or run. As we all know the 20th anniversary of Ohio Bike Week has been postponed. With the promise that it will be rescheduled, in all probability, it will be difficult to find another week and/or weekend that does not conflict with another rescheduled event. AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days at MidOhio due to be held the weekend of July 9-12 has also been postponed with no rescheduled date in sight. As one of the largest events at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, it appears impossible to follow social distancing guidelines for the vendors, racers and spectators. Social distancing in the vendor area alone, which boasts being the largest Motorcycle Swap Meet in the United States, would be an unimaginable task. At the time of this article, the fate of the 80th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally was still uncertain. Local hospitals have expressed concern about overcrowding situations. In past years the ICU’s have been filled during the rally due to motorcycle accidents. Add to it possible Covid-19 hospitalizations and it could be more than could be handled. A recent study by Sturgis City Council has found that most locals would like the Rally postponed due to the coronavirus. Although things change daily in Ohio, Geneva on the Lake’s Thunder on the Strip is still scheduled for September 10th to the 13th. And if the lack of any open camping spots or hotels in the area are any indication, bikers will be filling the streets and venues to capacity. Motorcycle racing is continuing at this point without fans. And although track days are beginning, social distancing and masks will be required/encouraged for crew and family members. Racers are a family and the socializing is as much a part of the event as the race itself. Not sure about all of you, but I missed the sounds of bikes moving through the streets of Sandusky. I missed live music and hanging out with people that have common interests and hobbies. I missed cheering on my friends trying to run their best time and the opportunity to see superbikes in action.

Hopefully, things will continue to progress as we move through the summer months. Because right now we are still not normal.

by: Denise Kennedy, TRO