UMCI Has Annual "Blessing of the Bikes"

Early Sunday morning started with rain and strong winds putting a bit of a damper on what is commonly known as the start of the Untied Motorcycle Club International’s riding season in Medicine Hat. Though the ride had to be canceled, over twenty people gathered for breakfast and watched as the clouds started to clear and the mood improved, looking forward to the Annual Blessing of the Bikes that was to be held that afternoon.

Each year the U.M.C.I. runs this annual event where they invite all motorcyclists from other organized groups as well as any individuals who would like to attend to join them in a ride and service memorializing any riders who are no longer with us as well as blessing the bikes and riders for a safe riding season. Over the years the event has been held at various venues and now is graciously hosted by the Reverend and parishioners at the Gordon Memorial Church in Redcliff. Even with the weather putting a bit of damper on the event, thirty bikes and over forty people attended.

May is commonly referred to as Motorcycle Awareness Month. This event, as well as demo days, safe riding events and charity rides ramp up as the weather continues to improve and more and more bikes hit the road. Medicine Hat has a large and strong riding community and supports many worthwhile charities like the Santa Claus Fund, CORE Association and many others. Some upcoming events include a ride for HALO put on by the Harley Owners Group on June 3rd and Ride for CORE put on by the U.M.C.I. to be held on June 16th. Also

next year, Medicine Hat will be hosing two rallies; the Harley Owners Group Alberta Rally as well as the U.M.C.I. International Rally, both to be held next July.

Please remember that most of the riders out there are people enjoying a pastime and a passion like anyone else and are contributing members of the community that have chosen to make Medicine Hat their home where they work and raise their families and give back in the same ways as everyone else.

As we encourage our riders to ride safe and respect the rules of the road we would also like to remind motorists to share the road with the bikes, being especially careful when making turns and at intersections.

We look forward to seeing you on the road and whether it be on two, three or four wheels, we encourage all drivers/riders to stay safe and enjoy the road and all it has

to offer.

Daniel Magee

U.M.C.I. Area Six Rep

Medicine Hat, Alberta

www.umcimh.ca

The Original Article Appeared in the 20th Edition of the Busted Knuckle Chronicles 2012