Official Press Release 18th Annual Thunder By The Bay Motorcycle

Official Press Release
18th Annual Thunder By The Bay Motorcycle Festival
For Immediate Release - December 15, 2015
Release Contact/Festival Chair - Lucy Nicandri
(941) 915-3498 / [email protected]
The 18th Annual “Thunder By The Bay” Motorcycle Festival once again promises to be
one of Sarasota's biggest premier events kicking off the new year on January 7-10, 2016.
One of the big attractions this year will be Harley-Davidson Motor Company's tractor
trailer displays showcasing a wide selection of new 2016 motorcycles available for free
demo rides. Non-riders can also experience Harley-Davidson's "JUMPSTART" to feel
what it is like to actually ride a motorcycle without moving. Harley-Davidson Motor
Company will also be promoting their "Heroes Ride Free" offer of free riding academy
classes for first responders and U.S. Military personnel (veterans and active duty). These
classes will be offered at local authorized Harley-Davidson dealerships beginning
January 1, 2016.
The weekend begins Thursday, January 7, with a Sporting Clay Tournament at Knight's
Trail Park followed by "Born To Be Wild" Kickoff Party at Sarasota Ford. Tickets are
limited for the Kickoff Party and can be purchased in advance on the Festival website. A
new event takes place on Friday, January 8, which is a "Hogs On Hillview" Block Party
featuring a night bike show, live entertainment, and vendor displays located Hillview
Street (between US 41 and Osprey Ave.).
On Saturday, January 9, a "Cruise for Cash" charity motorcycle ride will be held offering
$4,000 in cash prizes. Registration is from 10 am-Noon at Sarasota Ford. At one of the
ride stops, agency clients with special needs will be greeting all riders so that they can
learn first hand how their donation to Suncoast Charities for Children is making an
impact. The Festival continues on Saturday, January 9, and Sunday, January 10, with a
Downtown Festival featuring continuous live music, vendors, great food, and an 18 class
bike show on N. Palm Avenue on Sunday afternoon.
Thunder By The Bay is produced by, and benefits, Suncoast Charities for Children and
continues to "Honor veterans, active duty military, and their families." Presenting
sponsors include Sarasota Ford, Ford Power Stroke Diesel, Manatee River HarleyDavidson, and Rossiter's Harley-Davidson. Major sponsors include FCCI Insurance
Group, Budweiser, and The Loaded Barrel. The Festival is also endorsed and supported
by the Sarasota County Veterans Commission and the Manatee County Veterans Council.
Last year Thunder By The Bay generated an economic impact of $8 Million and 6,000
room nights. For Festival information and visit thunderbythebay.org
7015 Professional Parkway East
Sarasota, FL 34240