TBO.com - TBO is Tampa Bay Online

Suncoast Pasco News

Bike Fest This Weekend in New Port Richey

Courtesy of Doug Tobin

Approximately 800 motorcyclists took part in the 2006 Sheriff's Charity Bike Ride. This weekend, bikers will begin a trek through Pasco County starting at Gulf Coast Harley-Davidson and ending at the Cotee River Bike Fest. Proceeds will benefit the West Pasco Boys and Girls Club.

ADVERTISEMENT

By Jessica  Bair | The Suncoast News

Published: October 11, 2007

Updated: 10/13/2007 09:50 am

NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. - NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. -
Hundreds upon hundreds of bikers are set to descend on downtown New Port Richey this weekend for the Cotee River Bike Fest sponsored by Harley-Davidson of Tampa, Brandon, and New Port Richey.

The third annual event, presented by the West Pasco Chamber of Commerce, will kick off Saturday, with the Adam Holbrook Fere Thrill Show. He will perform motorcycle stunts using ramps and a motorcycle trailer, says Dan Sullivan, event coordinator.

Jerry "Motorman" Palladino, a former Pasco County Sheriff motorcycle officer, will demonstrate rider skills fused with entertainment in the Motorman's Rider Skill Show throughout the weekend.

There will be live entertainment on two stages featuring a Saturday night concert with the Marshall Tucker Band playing a blend of country, blues and Southern rock.

Other bands set to rock the stage that night are Rebel Pride, Wiley Fox, Caribbean Chillers, Wooden Nickel Band, Back Alley Blues Band, VooDoo Child, and M 80.

In addition, bikers can watch a live bike build by Eric Warren Designs, custom builder's bike show, with the public voting on the best bikes, Full Throttle Ride-In Bike Show, and a tattoo contest hosted by Atomic Tattoos.

There will be a special guest appearance by Athena Ransom, "The Vagabond Chick," of Vagabond Chopper Company, as well as, the arrival of the Polka Dot Tour, a female group of motorcycle riders who have been on a week-long journey across the state for breast cancer awareness. The group is raising money for the Faces of Courage organization.

"After the success of last two years, we are very excited for our area to be hosting this event again this year," said Joe Alpine, president of the West Pasco Chamber of Commerce.

"It's a good time to enjoy the day, the sunshine, music, and festivities," Alpine says of the large professional and family-oriented event.

On Sunday, hog and chopper fans can take part in the worship and praise service at the Sims Park presented by First Baptist Church of New Port Richey.

Shortly thereafter, Sheriff Bob White's charity bike ride will roll into the downtown area at 1 p.m. The Travis Redfish Band and Box for Pee Wee will perform with the winners of Custom Builder's Bike show announced immediately following the bands.

Bike owners and riders are encouraged to come downtown and enjoy the festivities that include special bike parking on the streets and around Orange Lake, Alpine suggests.

"When that many motorcycles roll into town, it's nice to see how well they all get along and how friendly everyone is. It's a really great event," Alpine notes.

Motorists, however, are advised that there will be many streets blocked off in the historic downtown district during the weekend activities, as well as heavy traffic, according to the Sheriff's Office.

Motorcycle vendors will also be on-site selling the latest in apparel and accessories for motorcycles, and food vendors will be located throughout downtown to satisfy hungry appetites.

Share this:

Loading Comments...

Email Print

ADVERTISEMENT