Vroooom! There are not many things louder and more disruptive than multiple motorcycles passing me as I innocently drive down 441/27 on my way to Leesburg, Fl. I’m in Leesburg heading to work at Leesburg Regional Medical Center on a Friday late in April, but traffic is not moving. Strange looking people attired in bandanas, leather jackets, bearded men with tattoos, and women with piercings in various body parts, are all on the most incredible bikes Harley Davidson has to offer. They are all lined up, ready to enter the main drag into downtown Leesburg. I can’t wait to get out of work, grab my camera, and head to the Leesburg Bike-fest!
I make my way on foot towards the city center as choppers cruise past me in single-file, while parked bikes line the street on both sides. This is billed as “the World’s Largest 3-Day Motorcycle and Music Event.”
The festival had humble beginnings in 1997 when a community association consisting of Leesburg residents, business owners and government officials coalesced to form the Leesburg Partnership. They created a one-day event that was intended to attract visitors from all over Florida, with intent to promote local business. The 1997 venue was considered a success with 5000 motorcyclists, a few bands and vendors. By 2002, the event was expanded to 3 days and was gaining momentum. As of 2009, the festival had become the largest 3-day motorcycle and music event in the country. This extravaganza now brings in $286 million, attracting thousands of visitors to the area. The venue now encompasses 30 blocks with 55+ concerts, 200+ Vendors, and 6 Hot-body Contests.
Frankly, my senses are being stimulated on overload, Not knowing where to start, I decided to start cruising the side streets. Within one minute I come across three girls that are hard to miss. Having decided that I would like to photograph them, I start following them from behind, hoping to get a candid shot. With no warning, they stop, turn around, and ask me if I would like to grab a picture of them posing. Let me think. This is a no-brainer.
I go out on Main Street, park myself at a corner, and start shooting away. This is the most fun I’ve had since doing something similar in Madurai, India. Within five minutes, a guy on a bike pulls over to start talking to me. With his helmet and leather jacket on, I’m unprepared to see one of my fellow cardiologists, and yes, a biker, from Leesburg Regional Medical Center. He tells me, “There is more to life than cardiology.”
It’s now time to head to the Towne Square Stage where Twinkle Rock & Soul Radio have started their first set. I’ll have to say, it’s pretty loud around here'; my ears are ringing. This is one of at least 55 bands that will play at this festival over 3 days. At various squares and bars throughout Leesburg, there is no dearth of raucous rock and R&B to be heard.
After checking the event listings, I decided to come back Sunday morning for one of the Hot-body contests. Arriving early, I procure a spot right next to the stage which will allow me to photograph the girls as they appear. These ladies have won other competitions throughout the country, and are ready to try their luck at the Leesburg Bike-fest. Some of the contestants are Ms. Gator Harley, Ms. Pin-up, Ms. Ratmate and Ms. Budweiser. Each has a prescribed routine as they assume the stage individually. Walking to the front, they throw front and back poses to the crowd of onlookers who are drinking beer at 11:30 AM. From the front of the stage, they head towards the three judges at the back of the stage. I’ll have to say, this is more than my normal amount of entertainment on a Sunday morning.
I’ve reached the conclusion of the Leesburg Bike-fest for me this year. The sheer numbers of amazing motorcycles, bikers from all over the country, and locals having a good time eating, drinking and listening to live music has been quite a scene. I will be sure to mark the date of next year’s bike-fest on my calendar when I get home.