Biker's Glory
As I write this, the population of the small town of Cheste has swelled by a grand factor. In trying to determine how many people view the racing, I have found that in 2009, a disappointing year, 175,000 attended, but in 2010 that number dropped by 20,000 to 155,000. I can find no numbers for 2011, and for 2012, I can only tell you that I can hear the noise from my house.
Saturday, (yesterday) was a very good day from the weather, as it was sunny, warm and dry. Ideal for racing, but today it is cold and wet. The rain started last night, and considering that the majority of the attendees camp out, it is not the most pleasant experience. However, when you are young enough to have ridden your bike from far afield just to get here, a little inclement weather is no big deal.
I can still remember my days on the bike. My greatest experience was on the Honda Goldwing, when you feel like an absolute king. Such bikes are so huge, those who do not understand suggest that you should just buy a car. But no, there is nothing quite like riding a motorcycle with the elements in your face.
Today, all the big names are racing: Marc Marquez, Pol Espargaró, Andrea Iannone, Thomas Luthi, and a host of others from across Europe, as well as Japan, Indonesia, Brazil, Finland, Thailand, and of course, England. This is a young person's sport that requires a hardy fortitude and the willingness to experience some hardship in following your favourites. I can hear from where I am that a great many people are having a good time.
Ah! I wish I were young again,........... sometimes.
Copyright (c) 2012 Eugene Carmichael
