In Portugal there are numerous Motorcycle Clubs.
These are effectively a living force of society, in the places where they organize and establish themselves. They bring together among their associates and friends citizens from all areas of work and knowledge, as well as from all social strata. The passion for motorcycles that unites everyone, overrules everything else.
Sometimes a brief visit to the Motorcycle Club Headquarters, chatting and having a coffee is almost therapeutic.
When I, in another text, mentioned that being a motorcyclist is good for your health, it is also because of this. For greater tranquility, maintenance of mental health and psychological balance, this “Sense of Belonging” is fundamental!
As a result of some conversations I had, I have the perception that this contribution made to society is unknown or undervalued by a large majority of the population, motorcyclists or not. Obviously, this is not our exclusive contribution, but as comprehensive as it is, it definitely is one of the few.
As spring approaches, we are entering the new gathering season.
Every year Motorcycle Clubs try to do their best in organizing their event, with the pride that everyone has in their Logo.
Personally, I went to a gathering a few years ago in the center of the country, which was considered a natural paradise combined with two wheels. It stood out for the difference and excellence of the offer, based on simplicity.
As the years went by and the direction in which the evolution of the programs progressed, for my personal taste (and that of many others), it stopped being so captivating. Sometimes, coexistence and sharing of experiences and stories, getting to know other people and ways of being, has become secondary as it is completely absorbed by the offer of events, which are sometimes both repetitive and dubious.
I think we are reaching a time when it would be necessary to stop and think about the purpose of a Motorcycle Gathering. What is the difference between a Gathering in the North or South, on the Coast or in the Interior, if they all have musical concerts, erotic shows, and a parade to close? How many Meetings include in their program an event or cultural visit specific to their area, in which they take advantage of the presence of people from all over the country and abroad, to showcase their culture?
As with so many other activities, sometimes less is more! How about a return to the beginning (not the past) and focus on what was at the genesis of the creation of Motoclubes? Why not bet on a simple, self-effacing event, but full of meaning, striving for difference?
When the most frequent attendees of gatherings say that it’s good to see friends again, it’s quite true. The question that can also be asked is whether there are many new participants in the events.
Furthermore, with the increasing costs of organizing mega events, Clubs are hostage to sponsorships. It is not necessarily bad, but when there are several associations in a small geographical area, there will inevitably be (already is) rivalry associated almost with a spirit of survival, as sometimes companies are unable to access all requests for support.
This is neither healthy nor justifiable, considering the principles that we address so much as ours.
In my opinion, this happens because everyone wants to do better, but in the same or similar format. The secret is to be creative and innovative. You will see that other people join and become loyal to these events, due to their exclusivity.
Paradoxically, I consider that in this way, exclusivity is synonymous with more accessible.
My suggestion is to apply the KISS principle: KEEP IT SIMPLE AND SMART.
Enjoy your ride and have fun.
