More than 50 motorcyclists toured Albert Lea, Austin and Owatonna on Saturday during Riverland Community College’s Bikers of Student Success motorcycle rally to raise money for scholarships.

Monday, July 30, 2001

More than 50 motorcyclists toured Albert Lea, Austin and Owatonna on Saturday during Riverland Community College’s Bikers of Student Success motorcycle rally to raise money for scholarships.

Every biker who participated was eligible for a drawing at the end of the race. Prizes were donated by sponsoring local dealerships, including Sette Power Sports of Owatonna, Bergdale Harley-Davidson of Albert Lea, Northstar Power Sports of Albert Lea and Trimble’s Honda of Austin, all of which supplied riders with water, coffee and doughnuts as they stopped along their route.

Doug Parr, a customized training representative, signed raffle receipts at Sette Power Sports in Owatonna and was impressed by the turnout.

&uot;It’s fantastic,&uot; he said. &uot;I was really surprised. I think we had enough sodas on hand for about half this many.&uot;

Vince Bergdale thought the rally was good for his business, which sells motorcycles and accessories in Albert Lea.

&uot;I think its a great opportunity,&uot; he said. &uot;It’s getting some customers in the door that may have not ever been here.&uot;

Many riders braved what could have been nasty weather to enjoy the day’s ride. Kalli Perthel, 12, rode behind her father, Steve. She is looking forward to the day she can ride a motorcycle, and thought that the ride was a good experience.

Bob Jackson, who just completed a 3,000-rider event at the Metrodome, also brought his daughter, Holly. They rode his Honda, which had an engine that was nearly as large as one in a small car.

Sheryl Labinski, who teaches at Riverland, enjoyed it as well. She rode the smallest motorcycle in the event, a red Suzuki that she bought two years ago.

&uot;I thought it was great fun,&uot; she said. &uot;I just got a little nervous on the interstate.&uot;

Money raised from the $20 entry fee will go to the Riverland Foundation, which awarded $14,000 in scholarships last year.