Harleys thunder into Aviemore for biggest UK gathering

"We’re all ready to rock an’ roll!" confirmed organisers as the biggest ever Thunder in the Glens Rally gets underway.

Mr George McGuire, Dunedin Chapter director and rally co-ordinator, said the event was expecting to welcome some 3,000 Harley fans to the strath for the 17th event of its kind.

With pre-registrations exceeding 1,600 and many more were coming in, Mr McGuire, known as Mad Dog, told the "Strathy", the number of entries was "fantastic in the current economic climate.

He said: "This weekend promises to deliver the atmosphere and excitement that is unique to TITG and we have strived hard to develop year on year.

"But what’s particularly exciting is the way Harley Davidson themselves are so impressed by the event. They’re really involved, and it’s great to have them showing the same kind of enthusiasm that we all have."

He and his organisation have put together a huge variety of events and entertainment, with all tastes catered for.

Admission to the ‘rally village’ is free and open to every-one.

The Saturday mass ride-out at 12 noon will stop over in Grantown to take in the ‘Taste of Scotland’ event being hosted by the Business Association of Grantown, and riders can park up and enjoy the hospitality before returning to Aviemore for the Custom Bike Show sponsored for the sixth year running by Auto Proud.

The ride-out will take around an hour and cover some 47 miles.

The weekend will include a special memorial service, said George: "We’ll be holding it in front of the Aviemore Inn, to mark the tragic deaths last year of Inverness couple Robert and Valerie MacDonald.

"Everyone will be welcome to attend and pay their respects."

He paid a special thanks to "all the volunteers who have helped to put this event together" adding: "We are also grateful to our sponsors without whose support this event would not be possible."

And the Mad Dog had a special request – good behaviour from his fellow "beasts".

He said: "I would ask that whilst visiting the Highlands that they ride safely, with consideration and respect for others. We value very much the relationship we have with the people who live and work in Spey Valley.

"They welcome us back each year with open arms and respect."

For the first time this year there is also an official ride out to CairnGorm Mountain on Sunday.

Resort spokesman Colin Kirkwood said: "We will be welcoming the Harleys with a dedicated parking area at the top of the car park where visitors can admire the bikes, plus music outside and a special Harleys barbce which will be offering special V-Twins (venison burgers) and Milwaukee Whoppers while in the Cas Bar riders and visitors will be able to sample the delights of the special Harleys menu which includes the Hog Roll amongst other things."

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