Harley riders hog all the way to Mbombela
If the events that I covered over the past weekend proved anything, it is that humans crave that sense and feeling of belonging.
The Harley Owners Group (HOG) Big Five chapter had its annual rally here in the Lowveld.
Riders from as far as Bloemfontein, Limpopo and Gauteng joined the event.
I caught up with them at Diggers Inn Retreat in Barberton.
Such was the status of this event, that even Old Joe (out on the N4) decided to get into his Hog outfit to be ready for all the selfies that were to follow.
Saturday’s entertainment at Diggers was provided by Anton Botha and of course all the riders participated in a Poker Run which started early morning at Greenway Woods. This took riders to various pubs and tourists attractions throughout the Lowveld on their way to Diggers Retreat and it proved an absolute winner.
“Our intention was to support local business and Pilgrim’s Rest, Casterbridge, Jock of the Bushveld, Diggers Inn Retreat, the Plaaskombuis and Belhaven Museum, with Werner Engelbrecht (a master storyteller) who was an absolute hit with everyone, proved to be highlights for the out of town riders,” said road captain, Gerrie Aggenbag.
“We also added some old time boeresport activities with, of course, many prizes to be won.”
Saturday afternoon saw many riders exploring the Geo Trail and the traditional closing function was held at the Greenway Woods Saturday evening.
A local SPCA will also benefit from the proceeds of this weekend.
The Lowveld offers tremendous opportunities for tourism and we should do everything we can to preserve and develop our infrastructure and roads (potholes need to be repaired asap) to accommodate and encourage tourism.
“For us Harley riders, it is all about community – of belonging and with the division and separation caused by the pandemic and all its rules, this weekend was an important event to just, once again – touch base,” concluded Gerrie.
