Thousands of "Hogs" coming to Syracuse this summer

Off the Wire
By: Karen Lee

After eight years, a statewide Harley Davidson rally will be returning to Syracuse this summer. Whether you're a biker or not, our Karen Lee tells us why so many people are excited about the event.
ONONDAGA COUNTY, N.Y. -- "July 8th through July 10th, you are going to hear the sound of thunder rolling through the streets of Syracuse and Central New York," said Bob Davidson, the H.O.G. Rally events coordinator.

That's when Harleys will be taking over for the 2010 New York State H.O.G Rally. The last time the city hosted the event was in 2002. This year, thousands will ride through local attractions, the Adirondack Mountains and Watkins Glen.

"There are certain kind of meccas of motorcycling. You can have the rally site at Sturgis or Daytona. There's the Dragon down in North Carolina. Everybody says you've got to run. Well guess what, we've got 13 curves. We've got rattlesnake gulch. We've got some great places in this area," said Davidson.

With 2,300 bikes rolling in, it's not just a lot of noise, but a lot of money.

"This is a million dollar event for our community at a time where a million dollar event is extraordinarily needed," said David Holder, the Syracuse Convention and Visitors Bureau president.

Which means the city won't hold back on making sure these visitors feel welcomed.

"I am confident that you will love Syracuse so much that you will come back here before another eight years pass," said Stephanie Miner, Syracuse's mayor.

Even before online registration opened up, one area hotel has already sold out of rooms for those three days in July.

For more information, visit www.nystatehogrally.com.

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