Victory Wheelers - 5th Hayling Island Reunion
The middle May saw the Victory Wheelers 5th Hayling Island Reunion. Last year this fell on the same day as American Car World's "Lazy Sunday", and I remember being on route to Lazy Sunday and seeing some wonderful looking machines going the other way. As I got closer to my destination on that day I thought to myself - "I've picked the wrong event!"
So this year it was going to be Hayling Island no matter what the weather.
A number of Boneshakers were going and their route was to rumble along the A27. They were happy for anyone wanting to join their group to pick a layby on route and join on the end of the procession as they went passed.
They were leaving Shoreham a little after nine, and as it was more on route to join near Worthing than Shoreham I reckoned they would be going through sometime between 9.30 - 9.45 depending on who was leading!
This plan was common amongst several others so we stood by our rides in the layby having a chat waiting for the convoy to approach. Then in the distance the lead car was spotted - it was like someone had just shouted "Scramble" in the lay by as everyone went back to their ride, fired up the engine and blasted up to the exit of the layby ready to launch themselves back onto the A27.
The run down was enjoyable and made for a comfortable cruz, but as we approached Hayling the bright sun gradualy turned to cloud, then very overcast with the odd spot off rain, but I'm pleased to say that the rain never materialised.
Before long we were rumbling over the bridge onto the island and were almost there. As we went into the car park by the Inn on the Beach, it was clear this was going to be a well attended event as there were loads of rides already parked up. we parked up ourselves a went for a cuppa and a wonder around.
Whilst doing so there was a constant stream of rides arriving and filling up the area set aside for the event. Then the band started playing and a good time ws had by all. It was windy at times, the sky remained overcast, evry now and then the sun tried its best to break through, but the clouds won that battle. It stayed dry, and everyone that I spoke to during and after the day were amazed that we didn't have any rain.
Well we were by the sea!
A well known Victory Wheeler "Big Al" unfortunately passed away recently - may be he had something to do with that day staying dry when everyone else had rain - Who knows?
But I'm sure he would have been pleased with the day and the turnout.
To view the pictures of the Victory Wheelers 5th Hayling Island Reunion “click here” to visit the gallery.