Each year we look forward to SpyderFest. It is such a great feeling seeing the gathering grow each year. But it’s the interaction with the people of the Spyder community that really makes the event special. For those not familiar with its origin, this event started as a simple group ride, and BBQ. We anticipated about twenty riders, cruising the back roads and Ozark “twisties” around Cuba. Once our “group ryde” was posted to SlyderLovers, it gained momentum, to the point we had over 100 Ryders join in. Thanks to the SpyderLovers web forum, and a bunch of great people, SpyderFest was born.
Each successive year, attendance has at least doubled. It’s great to see so many folks having a good time. This is not due to anything we do in preparation, but to you all, spreading the word, and coming together to make it all happen.
Who to thank for the success of SpyderFest?
But before that and first of all, I’d like to thank all of you who have expressed thanks to the MOGANG. Your sentiments are very much appreciated.
Lamont: the photo analogy of the USMC drill team really hit home. We’re not worthy, but thanks. It is a very moving statement.
Beyond that statement I try not to mention names, as my memory doesn’t allow. Pardon the generalities, but know that you are all appreciated.
You may not have seen each MOGANG member running around like they were on fire, but I can assure that things were being prepared all over town to bring this all together.
Thanks go to the Cowtown Staff. They have been so supportive of this fledging event. Just try to run a business in the middle of an event like this. If you didn’t get the opportunity to meet and speak with the owners, you missed a great experience. They are real down-to-earth friendly folks. The mechanics and parts staff was unbelievable. We owe them a great deal of gratitude.
Thanks to the city of Cuba and Viva Cuba for being so accommodating. What a great town. And the historic society has been a big part of this event since the beginning.
Thanks to the vendors who came out. You all are a major draw for attendance. And most of you have become friends to all of us. Those of you which were return vendors; we thank you for your confidence in this event. Last year was marginal, at best, for our vendors. Hopefully your confidence was justified this year.
The greatest thanks go to the Spyder community in its entirety: you all, for attending. Some travel great distances and at no little personal expense to be here. This event would be nothing without you. We have made many friends during the past three events. This is one of the best opportunities to reacquaint, and catch up with friends from all over the country.
I’m confident that I can express the heartfelt thanks, and appreciation for your kind words, and recommendations, for the entire MOGANG.
BumbleBee and I (BumbleBee’s husband) look forward to seeing you on the road, and again next year at SpyderFest (*) 2013. :doorag:
Ryde Safe
G-Man