This year's MRA Blanket Run took place in very cold and inhospitable conditions, but it was for a good cause, to provide some assistance for Canberra Community Care. The event was as for last year, actively supported by Canberra Motorcycle Centre, Shannons Insurance and Audio Solutions.

We gathered at Old Parliament House and had a very good run to the Phillip roundabout, thence to Garema Place in Civic. Many thanks to Peter Major and others in the MRA for organising the event which ran quite smoothly even without the Police assistance this year to control the route intersections. It may be a sign of the times with regard to budget constraints.

This year's Blanket Run attracted around 200 bikes compared to 500 bikes last year, and 250 bikes in 2007. The Ulysses Club won the highest Club attendance on the day, won by the BMW Club last year. There were fewer VVC bikes this year with 4 member's bikes, compared to 15 bikes last year and 9 bikes in 2007.

There were plenty of local Pollies on hand. Kate Lundy, Mary Porter AM, representing the Chief Minister, Gary Humphries, Brendon Smyth, Meredith Hunter and Jacqui Burke. They all had a few well chosen words, unanimous in appreciation of the good will generated within the ACT Community by events such as the Blanket Run.

The Run left a mountain of blankets, warm clothing and tinned food, etc. plus over $3,000 in cash for Canberra Community Care - a great effort! Thanks to all who gave their time and cash for this good cause.

See you on the next ride.

Peter Toet


Roll Call