A ton of scooterists lighting up Blackpool’s illuminations: it’s Ride the Lights 2017.
What is Ride the Lights? Simple: A load of scoots meet up at a designated point and then at an appointed hour travel as a convoy through the Blackpool illuminations.
Howard started it for the local clubs and thanks to social media and word of mouth its grown quite respectably. It’s open to all makes and marques. Howard pointed out to me that he’s noticed more and more of the modern variants at events, he reckons it’s a part of the evolution of the scene.
When we arrived there was already a fair number about and the atmosphere was already building. Howard and fellow club members marshalled the event, making sure the throng wasn’t split due to traffic lights and the like and it was wonderful to see over a hundred scoots trundling down the golden mile and the prom. It was a well thought-through gathering and a great experience. Howard and Shaun made sure they met everyone who attended and made all welcome. I really hope this event grows and grows. Honestly, if you get even a slim chance of going on this ride, do it. It’s a totally different experience of a ride out and I’m sure that while doing it not one of you will be able to shake at least a couple of seconds’ thought of one of the opening scenes of Quadrophenia deja vu going through your bonce.
Just to give you an idea of the reach that Ride the Lights has got, here’s a list of the clubs who attended (if I’ve missed anybody out, apologies, it’s in no way intentional): Bradford and Huddersfield, Mutts Nuts, Phoenix Bradford, Outcast SC, South Bradford, Night Owls, Mirfield Originals, Skin City, Preston Wildcats, Penwortham Puma, Rose & Bear, Blackpool Lambretta Owners Club, Blackpool Renagades, First Kick, Rossendale, Bigots, Chorley Scorpions, Vespa Club of Wigan, GollyMod Scooter Group, First Kick Morecambe and Penetrators Preston SC. Wow! Some list that.
I just want to thank Howard and Shaun O’Hagan for inviting me to the event and wish them all the success for the future, and yes... I’ll definitely be back next time.
Words & Photographs: Rik