Report: Welsh Dragon Raid 2009

Well another excellent ‘DRAGON RAID 09’ this time run by Di at GARLANDS in the beautiful Pembroke Dock area.

The event always starts with the ride too the event and the weather stayed nice for the run down from WOODS at ABERGELE. 5 RAT Pack members made the journey south, heading down through BALA, MACHYNLLETH, ABERYSTWYTH, then across to Mid Wales via LAMPETER and on to Pembroke Dock where we joined the rest of the packs from around the country at the Cleddau Bridge Hotel. Stunning views across the Haven and the bridge provided a great backdrop for that photo opportunity.

The evening ‘kicked off’ with a very tasty buffet before Di welcomed us all with his usual hospitality. The evening entertainment was a quiz, which we didn’t come last, neither did we come first, but I blame the alcohol, muffled the brain. It was then off to the bar to catch up with old acquaintances and catch up on events past, present and future. It is amazing how much information is around on RAT events and TRIUMPH motorcycles at the bar and what’s happening in the different pack areas. Gives us scope for future ride outs.

Saturday saw a very wet start to the day for the ride around the area. Being the brave souls from the North we watched the rest leave early whilst we put our feet up in the lounge, sipping coffee and discussing the route for the 3 Peaks event later on in the year. As the morning went on the weather improved and we left for the run. Why was i being followed by the Kent Pack and a couple of lads from Birmingham and a German? Must be the Sprint, best bike there; follow my tracks boys (and Girls, Chrissie).

The route was a bit of a challenge in places especially for ROBBO, who had broke his shoulder a few weeks earlier, not much suspension travel on a Daytona 650. When you see him ask how the shoulder got broke, interesting!!! A couple of hours later and we where back at the hotel refreshed by the ride, and very muddy bikes, great scenery in places though.

Saturday night saw an excellent meal followed by a great welsh choir and a fantastic blues band. My dancing skills have now improved a bit more than ROBBO’s. Don’t mention the doll. A cracking night’s entertainment. Nice to meet up with Ian and Sheila Bull again. Nice bikes on display as well, the new THUNDERBIRD was available for you to stretch your legs over.

Sunday saw the sun arrive which made the journey back north very pleasant, with stunning views over the Pressely Hills and along the coast.

We are looking forward already to next years ‘DRAGON RAID’ get planning BEVANS. See you there.