Harley anniversary promotes freedom

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The rush and freedom of the open road are two reasons the 100th Anniversary of Harley-Davidson Motor Company took place a year earlier at C & S Sports Center.

“It’s exhilarating. I feel free, a stress reliever. There is nothing more fun,” said Vicky Salisbary, a 50-year-old Shepherd resident, about riding her motorcycle.

C & S Sports Center, 4741 E. Pickard Road, hosted the two-day event to help celebrate this freedom and lifestyle.

“I think it brings out a lot of dreams in people and freedom when you ride a motorcycle. They are a very enjoyable motorcycle to ride to begin with,” said Jim Stovak, owner of C & S Sports Center.

The actual 100th anniversary will not take place until next year, but there is no need to wait, Stovak said.

“The reason we are having this is just basically to have a party. It is a kickoff event to start their 100th year anniversary. The actual factory celebration is Aug. 26 to 31 of next year,” he said.

The event featured discounted 100th anniversary merchandise, free demonstration rides of special 100th anniversary bikes, a barbecue and music by the band Blues Ambush.

In 1903, William S. Harley and Arthur Davidson made the first Harley-Davidson motorcycle available to the public. That same year, the first Harley-Davidson dealer opened for business.

Harley-Davidson officially will celebrate the 100th anniversary next year in Milwaukee. Riders, dealers and employees will ride to Milwaukee to help celebrate a century of motorcycling. The 100th Anniversary Ride Home will stop in 26 cities from Aug. 17 to 26, 2003.

The four Ride Home routes are a southwest route from Las Vegas, northwest route from Portland, Ore., a south central route from Baton Rouge, La. and the northeast route from New York.

Harley-Davidson riders want to raise $5 million for the Muscular Dystrophy Association during the 100th anniversary celebration.

“It’s hard to explain; it’s great. Everywhere you go there are people admiring the bikes. People waving at you that normally wouldn’t — it’s a great feeling,” said Tom Swan, vocalist for Blues Ambush and motorcycle rider.