By S.Sydney & Stix Douglas
During the early part of the summer I was enjoying myself out on the open road travelling on the “North Eastern Tour”. Collecting points for each of the New England states for the ABC’s of Touring, I had already stopped at the Connecticut State Rally on my way up into Canada.
There were many surprises upon arriving in Quebec. Having already been told that French was the primary language spoken there, I had not experienced the language barrier in any of the other provinces previously visited. To find the Rally I resorted to “International communication” when talking with a gas station attendant. I asked “Harley Davidson Dealer?” and he pointed me in the right direction.
Fortunately it was close and easily found along the main highway. Pulling into the Dealership that morning the owner greeted me. He showed Quebec hospitality by taking his Harley and personally escorting me to where the HOG Rally was taking place.
Having ridden for nearly 2,000 miles I was more than willing to just sit and watch others enjoy the activities. While talking with so many people I was fortunate that they took the time to translate so those that did not speak very much English could understand me.
Returning to the Dealership I took pictures and participated in some of the functions that where happening there; including a bike wash and a barbecue where I enjoyed a hotdog.
In the early evening I returned to the Rally joining with the others for an evening ride, to a place that had a spectacular view to watch the sun set. It was magnificent.
Along the way I had to hit the fuel reserve switch. To assure I would have enough fuel to make it back and not be left behind, the Road Captain of the local HOG chapter escorted me up through the ranks to ride with him at the front of the group on the return trip. When the time came a few of them pulled off to escort me to the gas station. I felt I was protected and well cared for in true biker fashion.
Later that night there was live entertainment with a band and dancing. Everyone thoroughly seemed to enjoy themselves whole heartedly. The memories of the Quebec Provincial Rally were some of the most enjoyable I can remember for this year. I had the opportunity to meet a lot of friendly and very interesting people.
Even though I didn’t want it to end, as there was so much more that was to happen at the Rally, I knew I had to leave. My next stop was the Ride for Sight in Ontario the following day; but that is another story….
