SYRACUSE -- The greater Syracuse area has been selected as the local destination for a statewide motorcycle lovers’ event.
The Syracuse Convention & Visitors Bureau held a news conference Thursday morning to announce the details of the 2010 New York State Harley Owners Group (H.O.G.) Rally, which will return to Onondaga County July 8-10. According to the Visitor’s Bureau, the local organizing committee for the rally went through a bid process and competed against other areas of the state to secure the event for Onondaga County.
"The Rally is an outstanding opportunity for local businesses, as attendees will be encouraged to visit our attractions, restaurants, and retail establishments," said SCVB President David Holder. "We're estimating the economic impact of the H.O.G. Rally to be over $1 million."
Rally organizers estimate that over 2,500 motorcycles will take part in the event; more so than any other area in the state because of Syracuse's centralized location. The rally will return to Syracuse for the first time since 2002, when more than 2,300 bikes participated.
"We are thrilled to have the 2010 H.O.G. Rally return to Onondaga County," said Onondaga County Executive Joanie Mahoney. "The opportunity to hold a premiere event like this in our community is exciting. Along with the tremendous economic impact it will have on our County and City, it will also allow us to showcase our beautiful region. We hope our visitors enjoy a wide variety of food, fun and entertainment and we look forward to a great weekend."
"We are excited to welcome this unique event to our community," echoed Syracuse Mayor Stephanie Miner. "This will have an extremely positive economic impact on Syracuse and will allow visitors from across New York State to explore and enjoy our region."
Rally activities will feature local and regional rides (both guided and self-guided) including a CNY Scavenger Hunt and a downtown dining experience in Armory Square. Besides exploring Onondaga County, Rally festivities will include bike games, vendors, live music, participant games, two judged bike shows, a fireworks display, and more. The Holiday Inn in Liverpool has been designated as the official host hotel for the weekend, and according to the SCVB is already sold out.
Opening ceremonies will begin on the evening of Thursday, July 8, 2010 with a salute to the troops and recognition of all H.O.G. veterans. The 2010 NYS H.O.G. Rally will culminate the evening of Saturday, July 10, 2010 with a fun-filled block party at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que.
"Dino BBQ is thrilled to be part of the 2010 H.O.G. Rally. Between our winding country roads, slow smoked bar-b-que and Upstate hospitality, we think the H.O.G. riders will feel right at home," said Dinosaur Bar-B-Que Owner and CEO John Stage.
For more information about the upcoming H.O.G. Rally, go to www.nystatehogrally.com.
