The 15th annual Honda Hoot, scheduled for June 18-21, 2008 in Knoxville, TN, is a “Top 20 Event” according to the Southeast Tourism Society. The announcement by the Knoxville Tourism amp; Sports Corporation (KTSC) confirms what motorcyclists across the country have known for years: when it comes to motorcycle rallies, one of the biggest and the best is the Honda Hoot.
“We love to see the thousands of motorcycles that flood into town every June, and we are delighted that this event has won the recognition it deserves,” said KTSC President and CEO Gloria Ray.
Sponsored by the Honda Riders Club of America (HRCA), the 2008 Honda Hoot is the ultimate motorcycle vacation. “Knoxville is a fantastic destination and also happens to be the gateway to motorcycling paradise,” said HRCA Manager Bill Savino. “And to celebrate our 15th year, the 2008 Honda Hoot will have lots of new events with something for everyone.”
Headlining the new events this year is a concert by country music legend Wynonna Judd, who will be performing in a special private concert at the Civic Coliseum as part of the Hoots closing ceremonies. One of Americas most popular performers, Wynonna has won the Academy of Country Musics Top Female Vocalist Award and celebrated 20 number one hits on the charts. She has also been honored with the USOs Merit Award for service to all branches of the United States armed forces. In 2005 she added the title of New York Times best-selling author to her already extraordinary resume with the release of her autobiography, Come Home to Myself. Only fully registered Hoot attendees are eligible to attend closing ceremonies and the Hoot Concert by Wynonna.
To help commemorate the Hoots 15th year, a special 15th Anniversary Grand Prize will be awarded this year: A trip for two to the 2009 MotoGP of Japan, held at the Twin Ring Motegi racetrack, also home to Hondas incredible Motegi Collection Hall museum, where the winners will see the most amazing collection of production and racing machines in the world, followed by additional days visiting Tokyo.
The Honda Hoot is well known for the number and variety of rides offered, including favorites such as the Cherohala Scenic Skyway Ride, the Cumberland Gap Ride, the Best Dam Ride and Fish Fry (at Norris Dam) and the Bush Bean factory tour. New outings for 2008 include a mystery ride to a famous underground cavern and a trip to Ghost Town in the Sky in nearby Maggie Valley, NC. In-town events include the Welcome Party at the Knoxville Marriott, Bike Night at World#234;s Fair Park and new for 2008 the HRCA Members Day at Smokies Baseball stadium. The Honda Hoot also hosts a huge vendor show at Chilhowee Park, plus demo rides and a very special event, the Knoxville Ride for Kids benefiting the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation.
Everyone on every brand of motorcycle is welcome at the Honda Hoot and getting there is half the fun because the roads of eastern Tennessee and the surrounding Appalachian region are some of the best in the nation. With the long days and warm nights, the socializing couldnt be better. “Come with a friend, your riding club, the family or alone,” said Savino. “Once you get to the Hoot, you never have to worry about what to do; its non-stop action and fun every day.”
Event pre-registration opens in early January 2008. Pre-registration prices are $55 per person ($60 per person on-site) and just $48 for HRCA Members ($55 on-site). To register online or request a free brochure, visit HondaHoot.com or call the Hoot toll-free number at 800.347.1289.