SSOM April 2011

Sunshine State of Mind

April 2011 "If you don't start it, you'll never get there" Author: Me Comanche Site of the 2011 T.M.R.A. State Rally -- April 8-10 For most of us, this is not our first rodeo. Have you stopped to think what it takes to make this the 38th State Rally? There are some that have been to every, or purt'near every one of them. Whoever you are, would you seek me out at the rally? I want to shake your hand, take your picture and hear a few of your stories. I'll be the one wearing black leather and jeans. You can't miss me. But seriously, I would love to hear any tale y'all might like to share. There is a bushel of colorful history associated with the state Rally. 38 years is a long time to keep anything going, it didn't happen by accident.		What do ya'll think? Does the old chief and Gary Dupriest look a lot alike or what? T.M.R.A. is going to hold the state rally in Comanche this year. In fact, it will be held in Comanche for the 39th and 40th annuals. This will make it easier for our more advanced members to remember how to get there. I know I appreciate any help I can get. There are many reasons to like Comanche as a rally site. It is easy to get to, plenty of excellent roads to ride and ample space to camp. There are motels very close to the park, for those who consider roughing it as a motel without room service. If you are like most of us you'll have to try the camping thing out at least once. As you can see in the picture, it can be fun to setup a campsite. A word of advice, bring someone that knows how to erect a tent. If you cannot figure it out then I am sure that someone will come along that is willing to give you a hand. After they stop clapping, and laughing, they may even help you put up the tent (Look for the folks with the walkie-talkie).
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I love all the trees in the Comanche City Park. You'll find plenty of shade. Bring a towel with you. Sometimes the pollen is fairly heavy and you'll want to wipe your seat off before riding.

Big favorites at the rally are the Bike Games. The Board always comes up with good ideas for the games.

In this picture you can see that the passenger is poised to catch UFO's falling out of the sky. Whatever the game is, I know you'll have a blast participating in the games. There are no losers; some are slightly more successful at multi-tasking, everyone has a great time.

Another favorite is the Off-Bike Games. Once again, the Board finds ways to create friendly competition that is fun for the participants as well as the onlookers.

"Potato in the Hay" is one of my favorites. You won't be able to help yourself, you just have to stop and watch.

The kids always seem to have a great time as well. There are a lot of rallies where kids are not so welcome. At the T.M.R.A. rally, the family is very important. The city park has a large playground where the tykes can wear off some of that energy we'd all like to bottle and take with us on a long ride.

The Silent Auction is another big hit. The excitement builds as time runs out. Will you get the item you bid on? You'll have to come out and try it to see what I mean, it is a hoot.

Mostly, the T.M.R.A. State Rally is about people. Happy People

It is about seeing friends you have not seen for a while. It is about making new friends.

Everyone is welcome. There will be plenty of opportunity to meet like-minded riders. There are many clubs represented at the rally. You can get to know them and see if it is a fit for you.

Well Buckaroos, it is time to get Amana loaded up for the Rally. For registration information, go to www.tmra.org. I sincerely hope I see you there!