S&S Makes The Scene In Newton Iowa

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S&S attended the Iowa Grand Rally at the Iowa Speedway near Newton, Iowa July 24 – 28.  This is the first year for this new rally and we didn’t know what to expect, but when we got there we were impressed by what a great facility the Iowa Raceway is. This modern racing, concert and event facility is a great venue to present everything from NASCAR races to motorcycle rallies to rock concerts. We were also impressed at how hot the weather was. During set-up on Tuesday July 24, and the first day of the show on Wednesday, the temperatures were well above 100° – that’s pretty hot! Wednesday night a line of thunderstorms came through with heavy rain and high winds. We were lucky because the S&S trailer came through the storm with no damage. Others were less fortunate.

The Wall Of Death, which was right next door, had its top awning blown off and badly damaged. In spite of the set-back the show had to go on. Take a look at the short video and the photos of Patch McGillicuttey defying death and gravity as he rides his motorcycle around the cylindrical track of the Wall of Death. He was riding with no hands, snatching dollar bills from the hands of spectators, and even making change if you didn’t have any small bills. The wall will be in Sturgis, and you should check it out if you get a chance.

As it is at every rally, our Morgan 3 Wheeler was a real hit. Some people have no idea what it is. Kind of like Marty McFly’s Delorean after he crashed into the barn in the movie Back To The Future. Some people had heard of it but have never seen one in person. Lot’s of people thought it must be something we fabbed up in the R&D department. Those guys are always surprised that it’s a production vehicle made by a company that’s been in business since 1910. A couple of with it individuals knew what it was and had some experience with the original Morgan 3. Everybody thought it was super cool, and wanted one.

Also on Thursday was the opening ceremony at the Rolling Thunder traveling wall and the S&S circle of honor. Event organizer Jay Allen lead the proceedings through the ceremony and the S&S Circle of Honor, a five bike simultaneous burn out in front of the wall. The mission of the Rolling Thunder organization is to honor and recognize the men and women who gave their lives in the service of our country.

The weather really didn’t cut us any breaks during the rally. Tuesday through Thursday were brutally hot. Friday was the only nice day. Saturday started out fairly nice, and attendance was looking pretty good. However, by mid afternoon, right after the closing ceremony for the traveling wall, the rain started and put a damper on the proceedings. A lot of folks called it quits and left and it’s a safe bet that a lot of the local people who would have attended, decided not to show up because of the weather.

In spite of the weather, we had a great time. We’re looking forward to the next Iowa Grand Rally. We think it has a lot of potential because of the great facility, a full complement of attractions like numerous rides to local destinations – lead by celebrity road captain and “Minister of Fun” Don Wood, activities, attractions, and big name entertainment. A great time in a great facility at a great price.