54th Welsh National Vintage Motorcycle Assembly

The 54th Welsh National Rally - Saundersfoot, took place during the weekend of the 18/19/20th September 2009. Friday evening saw competitors gathering at the Merlewood Hotel and a local harpist kept everyone entertained whilst new friendships were forged.

On Saturday morning competitors gathered at the beautiful Saundersfoot Harbour for the start of the regularity trial. There were 103 entries and with a few people withdrawing for health reasons and a few non starters, 95 machines were set off by vice- chairman of Saundersfoot Community Council, Cllr. Dave McDermott.

There was rain overnight, but the time the riders set off the sun was shining. Competitors followed a route set by Clerk of the Course, Huw Adams of Tavernspite visitingTenby and Pembroke, and they really enjoyed riding through the sand dunes en route at Freshwater West where had they filmed the Harry Potter and Robin Hood blockbuster films earlier in the summer. They completed a 75 mile route through many lovely Welsh villages in the afternoon and returned to the Harbour to exchange experiences.

There then followed a dinner dance and during the evening, an auction to raise money for the Wales Air Ambulance, raised £550 from photos and prints donated by Sir Anthony Hopkins, Sir David Jason, Sire John Surtees, Carl Fogarty MBE, Suzi Perry, Norton Works Riders and some photos and a Painting donated by Elly Morgan from the West South Wales Section. Over the weekend, the Wales Air Ambulance raised approximately £1100.

On the Sunday morning, the Concourse prizes were presented by Colin Seaton VMCC president, who we were honoured to have supporting the event. Best Veteran went to Iwan Rees, Best Vintage to the President himself Colin Seaton; Post Vintage, David Williams; Post War, Roger Vickerman; Classic, Hywel Williams and Youngest Rider, Alistair Devall. The furthest travelled rider was 80 year old Bill Soltau from Blackburn who rode to the event in 7hours. The most meritorious competitors were Paddy and Rena Guerin from Cork who had major valve problems on route but still completed the event. A short route organised by committee member Shan Owens followed a carvery lunch. All riders went home happy, as the weekend had been sunny, sociable and successful.

To view photographs of the last two years events visit www.saundersfootrun.co.uk

Huw and Mary Adams ( organisers)