This is the last Central Route (CR) newsletter before kick stands up (KSU) in Ontario – in about 15 days. If you’re like me, the excitement is peaking, and your motorcycle is already packed, serviced and ready to go. In any case, you’re quickly running out of time.
More than 1181 riders and supporters have registered for RFTW XXXIII – a total of 459 CR riders and supporters alone.
All CR registrants to this point have been assigned to a platoon. All riders who register late in Ontario (or along our route) will also be assigned to a platoon, based on the needs of platoons.
Volunteers: We’ve been pretty successful in filling our CR leadership teams. A huge thank you to all who stepped up to assume these responsible and essential positions. Like all four routes, CR is always looking for (non-FNG) riders who can fill leadership role, and are dedicated to the RFTW mission. CR still has available positions on the fuel and staging teams. In addition, while we have a couple “chase” vehicles, we still have a need for a volunteer with a truck and trailer capable of hauling up to four (4) motorcycles. So, if you’re interested in volunteering to assist with CR operations, whether it be this year or next, be sure to submit a volunteer request form. Our Medical team could also use some more trained medics. Please contact the Assistant Route Coordinator Nick Hentges if you are interested and qualified. CLICK HERE TO VOLUNTEER
FNG Meeting and Pre-Paid Fuel: On Saturday, April 15th, CR hosted an online FNG orientation meeting. In this meeting we introduced many members of CR leadership, and presented an overview of the Run. This included the Ontario check-in process, riding styles (staggered vs. side-by-side), and expectations concerning rider conduct during the Run. We also touched on RFTW online resources, and demonstrated how to search for valuable participant information. (CENTRAL ROUTE HUB). Platoon leaders will continue to hold Zoom meetings for riders assigned to their platoon right up to our arrival in Ontario.
During the meeting we also discussed fueling and staging procedures in some detail. This included a reminder about the pre-paid fuel option available to all CR riders. While all CR riders are encouraged to participate in the pre-paid fuel option, it is not required. That said, based on years of experience fueling hundreds of motorcycles, electing this option will significantly speed the process of fueling, allow riders to quickly stage, and give riders more time for rest, hydration and snacks.
The cost of the CR pre-paid fuel option is only $90 per rider. Riders interested should ask a Registration Team member during “check-in” in Ontario. Upon purchase, riders will be issued a sticker for their motorcycle windscreen. Seeing this sticker, fuel team members will know not to collect money and will send you on your way quickly. And, riders will not have to remove or adjust their riding gear (e.g., gloves, jackets, weather gear, etc.). So, remember to bring a little extra cash with you to Ontario for the pre-paid fuel option. You’ll be helping yourself, and the CR Fuel Team at the same time.
Dinner and a Movie: Don’t forget, the “Courage” movie, which will be shown at the Elk’s Lodge on Monday evening. There is no charge for this movie – a dramatic, true story about Prisoners of War in World War II and Vietnam. I plan to be there, to show my support for this important part of the RFTW mission – “To call for an accounting of all Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action (POW/MIA)”. If you plan to attend, be sure to arrive early at the Elks Lodge so you can have dinner before the movie, which begins at 1900 hours. Word is, the Elks are offering a steak dinner for $20.00….
Ontario Departure: Finally, KSU in Ontario (for Central and Southern routes) is Wednesday, 17 May 2023, at 0710 hours. The Midway Route (MR), however, will be departing Ontario the day before, at 0800 hours, Tuesday, 16 May 2023. Senior leadership from the other two routes (CR and SR) are required to attend the departure of the MR, but all riders from CR and SR are also welcome to attend their departure. Riders who elect to attend the MR departure should arrive at Lot D early on Tuesday morning so they can be staged separate from MR riders.
IT’S MAY Y’ALL
See you in Ontario, California.
Paul “Brush” Marshall
CR RC RFTW XXXIII
