Harley Davidson World Record Parade, Bring It Home!
Well, we tried.
September 15, 2018, we ascended on Paris, Texas on a mission; The Harley Davidson world record parade, Bring It Home! This mission was to achieve the world record for the largest number of Harley Davidson motorcycles in a parade. Being part of such a large parade of Harleys was pretty darn exciting. The number to beat, 2,404, currently held by Greece. It is my understanding that we had the numbers, but for several reasons, we didn’t meet the mark.
What Happened
Here in Texas, the sun is hot, but some of the bikes were hotter. A few bikes did not cross the finish line due to breakdowns and overheating issues. We had a few bikes registered that were not Harley Davidsons. I do not have specifics on this or how it happened, but I know that setting in my garage is a ’78 Shovelhead, but because it is a custom, on a Paughco frame, it could not be registered for the parade. Unfortunately, with all that being said, this brought our numbers down to 1,911.
Registration Time
One thing for sure, the registration line was ridiculous. There were bikers trying their best to stay hydrated, and just as important, out of the highway. There was a bunch of us and we covered the span between the front door to Loop 286. Most had preregistered online, but we still had to sign-in and get our bracelets. With so many of us in line, standing in the sun, you could be certain that we were feeling the sweat run down our backs, and anywhere else we may have been sweating. It was not a pretty sight. All those leather vests, you would have thought we were tanning a few hides.
Can’t you just feel the heat? Registration at Bring It Home.
Bikes, Bikes, and more Bikes!
Better yet, Harley Davidsons, Harley Davidsons, and more Harley Davidsons! You have to admit, there were some awesome bikes to look at. It kinda makes up for not shattering the record–kinda. There is just something about ‘ol American Muscle.
Bring It Home brought all rides out of the shadows. They came for at least 25 different states across the U.S.A!
Sisterhood
It was sweet to see the ladies out in force. A woman on a motorcycle screams confidence. She is strong and makes her presence known. Nothing wrong with that! Just as the guys have built a brotherhood, us sisters have built a sisterhood, and we have all become one giant family. The Harley Davidson world record parade gave us all a chance to get together and show support.
Bring It Home 2018
Lady Bikers
Harley Davidson World Record Parade…Putting it All Together
So, some of you may know Adam Sandoval. I had the pleasure of meeting him for the first time at this event. Full of passion, he is. He and all his Harley Davidson loving friends made a valent attempt to shatter this record. I can nearly be certain that we are going to come back, try again, and bring this record home to America where it belongs. Adam, you rocked it! If you do not follow Adam on Youtube, you must subscribe, then go visit him at AdamSandovalRides.com, follow him on Facebook @scootinamerica and on Instagram @adam_sandoval_rides. You will not be disappointed.
Paris Harley Davidson did a great job with hosting the starting line. They were on top of everything. Special thanks for all your hard work and the ice-cold water you were nice enough to pass around while we all were waiting to sign-in and lineup. It was greatly appreciated. Paris Harley Davidson is one of the best in the country. I highly encourage you to visit them, either online, or better yet, in person!
Choctaw Casino & Resort had one heck of an after party. Food, cold beverages, live music, and slot machines kept us busy while we waited on the results from Guinness.
All the Good
Thanks to the organizers of this event, the Harley Davidson World Record Parade, Bring It Home, donated 100% of the money raised through registration to the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association. $32,280 to help their fellow veterans! Even though we did not break the world record, because of all the good that will be done for veterans, this ride was a worth and honorable endeavor. Thank you, Adam, Paris Harley, and Choctaw, for your generosity and support for the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association!
Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association
The Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association is an association of combat veterans from all branches of the United States Armed Forces who ride motorcycles as a hobby. There mission is to support and defend those who have defended our country and our freedoms. They focus on helping veterans, whether through donations, visiting veteran care facilities, providing a warm meal, clothing, shelter, and guidance, or simply to say, “Thank You” and “Welcome Home.”
Frank “Dutch” Prigmore Chapter 23-11 PRO
What I learned.
- Guinness World Record qualifications are held to very high standards and strict policies, it is like they say on their website, “Record-breaking is serious business.” The record must be measurable, breakable, verifiable, based on one variable, and the best in the world.
- The Texas heat is hard on a Harley engine under normal circumstances, but the heat of a Texas summer at 10 miles an hour is torture.
- Registration needs to be limited to licensed/registered, VIN# verified Harley Davidson motorcycles. I know everyone wants to participate, but there has to be a way to eliminate the chances of being disqualified for non-Harley bikes registering for the event from the very start. Being proactive!
Even though we did not break the record, it is without question that Bring It Home was an experience to remember. From camping, live music, good food, great group of bikers, and, of course, the ride itself, I found it a privilege to be a part of this event and will be looking forward to the next time we take on the challenge of breaking the Guinness World Record for the largest Harley Davidson Parade! So, be on the look out for the next Harley Davidson world record parade!
You can learn more about Ros Alainn here and also follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Hope to see you on the road.
