2010 HBBB kicks off in style
The turnstiles were turning rapidly and early this morning as The 2010 Honda Broadford Bike Bonanza (HBBB) roared into life under perfect blue Victorian skies.
Record numbers of riders had pre-registered for Motorcycling Australia’s (MA) second annual HBBB event, and the day one attendance did not disappoint with the State Motorcycle Sports Complex in Broadford brimming with motorcycle enthusiasts.
Riders arrived from all parts of Australia and the world – some from as far as England, USA and Japan – setting up camp throughout the complex and readying themselves for a weekend of enjoyment.
The 2010 HBBB has something for everyone – whether it be the opportunity to get out on the track and ride your old bike on one of the many tracks, buy and sell at the swap meet and trade stalls, take in some history at the vintage bike displays, as well as being able to see some of the sport’s greats from yesteryear.
There was action aplenty at the Motocross track early on day one as legends Gary Jones, Jimmy Ellis, Brian Martin and Pelle Granquist were introduced to the crowd and then hit the track for a few laps in what was the first Star Session taking place over the weekend.
Jones, a four-time American champion who helped put Motocross on the map in the USA back in the 1970’s, is visiting Australia for the first time and is rapt to be out here for this year’s Bonanza.
“I was invited over and I couldn’t resist, I had to come to this,” an excited Jones said.
“This is the greatest thing I’ve been to in a long, long time.
“The people are just fantastic… I can’t get from one end of the paddock to the other, I want to stop and talk to everyone!”
Event organiser Peter Drakeford was equally thrilled with the response that the HBBB has generated within the motorcycling industry.
“It’s just a fantastic day – everybody has a smile on their face and is keen to get out on the track,” Drakeford explained.
“We’ve got new Enduro courses, the Motocross track is just sublime, the Road circuit has been prepped absolutely beautifully and there are so many bodies down there it’s difficult to move sometimes!
“The variety of bikes and the different styles are just incredible – there’s stuff here that you just don’t see for a very long time.”
Festivities continue tonight With a Gala dinner taking place in a marquee adjacent to the Speedway circuit, where guests will be able to mingle with the stars and hear from the likes of Jones, Granquist, Martin and Alan Cathcart.
Sunday will see more action take place around all Broadford tracks at this bumper Easter event, and those keen to come along can still do so, with tickets available at the gate.
For all timetables, news, photo galleries, interviews and more, visit the dedicated HBBB page on MA’s website at www.ma.org.au/hbbb which will be updated throughout the course of the weekend.
Audio interviews from Saturday here
