Huge crowds gathered in Galveston for the Lone Star Rally, which happened to fall on Halloween weekend, giving the rally a particularly spooky theme.
Over 100,000 motorcyclists converged on the streets of Galveston, TX recently for the 8th Annual Lone Star Motorcycle Rally. The event helped rejuvenate an area that was pummeled the year before by Hurricane Ike. One day of rain was offset by two gorgeous days as the road to the island was overrun by roaring motorcycles for a full weekend of festivities.
Hundreds of bikers decked out their motorcycles in spooky regalia to participate in the Halloween biker promenade that rolled through the Strand district. The event has been likened to a Mardi Gras parade, with motorcycles taking the place of floats. The rally took place over Halloween weekend, which contributed to the festive mood.
Rock legends Lynyrd Skynyrd lit up the stage on Saturday night, as special guests the Edgar Winter Band and bluesman Leon Russell helped set the party tempo. A ‘Leather and Lace Ball’ at Moody Gardens was also a big hit with attendees.
"The rally was a hit," said Lone Star Rally event promoter, Melissa Penland. "We had so many people come out, the weather was beautiful and we raised a good amount of money for the Texas Asthma Association. There is no better way to celebrate Halloween than with thousands of fun-loving bikers."
Besides concerts, rally-goers participated in a charity
The Headless Horseman rides a chopper! This Ichabod Crane has traded in his horse for something with more horsepower
Texas Hold'em Tournament for charity, hooted and howled at the Miss Lone Star Rally Pageant, perused the wares of hundreds of vendors, and embarked on Jean Lafitte's motorcycle treasure hunt. During the hunt, participants went to various retailers and vendors to pick up free clues. Finalists were brought up on stage Saturday night as one lucky winner rode away with a Jean Lafitte Custom Chopper.
The Lone Star Rally has steadily increased in popularity since its inception eight years ago. Galveston offers beautiful beaches and favorable weather, even in the fall months. The Texas town is one of the oldest and largest ports in the United States. The festival is said to bring ‘a little Bourbon Street madness to the Strand.’
Rick Fairless, custom motorcycle builder and owner of the popular biker hangout Strokers Dallas said "The Lone Star Rally is always a great time for bikers. I had a great time and am looking forward to coming back next year."
Lone Star Rally Winners
2009 Miss Lone Star Rally – Ashley (no last name provided)
2009 Ride-in Bike Show Winner – Philip Harmon & his flame bike
2009 Poker Run Winner – David Grigsby
Halloween Costume Contest Winner – Rick Shinpaugh & his custom trike pulling a casket
For information on next year's rally visit
www.lonestarrally.com
