Delivering the mail
Hawke’s Bay Classic Motorcycle Club 25th Taupo to Napier Mail Run
15 March, 2014 – Napier, NZ
The annual 25th Mail Run went ahead as planned despite attempts by Sub Tropical Low ‘Lusi’ to get in on the act! We had over 50 entries make their way to the Taupo start point on Saturday morning after an informal get together and meal at the Taupo RSA the night before. A surprise to many was the arrival of a 1912 James – a 500cc belt drive model with two speed hub, that was started and displayed. Later on, while regrouping at Rangatiki Cafe, the James was seen leisurely “putt putting” along – a real privilege indeed!
The rain, just prior to the lunch stop at the Tarawera Cafe, caused one 741 Indian and one Velocette to slip off the black stuff – but fortunately didn’t result in any injuries to the riders – only pride dented! With the rain making its presence felt, bikes were started and with the resolve of “The Mail must get through”, participants made their way safely to Napier. Saturday night’s dinner and prize giving at the Napier RSA saw the first issuing of the “Tin Man” Bike of the Rally trophy donated by Betty Wakefield in memory of her husband Alan go deservingly to Neville Olsen and his 1924 BSA. The award was presented to Neville by Alan and Betty’s daughter Val. It was an enjoyable run for the old girder fork and ridgid bikes and we hope to see more next year. Thanks especially to Mike Little who donates every year to the Rally and to all our other sponsors who give so generously. Thanks to everyone that lent a hand in making this Rally run as smoothly as it did – it was much appreciated.