The Winner Is

 

 

By Alan Lane-Richardson

 

After many months “The Old Girl”, my 1969 V7 Special, was finally rebuilt just in time for the 2006 Laverda Concours under the Story Bridge. The weather forecast for the day was rain with glimpses of sunshine. A bummer after the hours spent polishing the bike ready for the day.

 

The morning arrived and the bike was started and moved from the comfort of the dry shed into the drizzly daylight. I think “The Old Girl” was temporarily in shock at the thought of getting its tootsies wet for the first time in years. Don’t worry the bike wasn’t alone, the thought of getting wet and probably staying that way all day wasn’t what I was hoping for.

 

Of to the venue we headed gingerly trying to avoid the puddles and muddy patches on the road. Due to the road conditions I had packed the chamois incase the bike got wet and dirty on the way. On arrival I was met by the happy faces of the Laverda Club who were quite keen to get my registration and cash. The options for entry looked endless. Of course the option that fitted best and the only real class to enter was the “Under 750 Continental Class” which I promptly ticked on the form and so the bike was officially in the competition.

 

   

 

It was now a case of take the bike to its allotment and park the bike. Where to park? You guessed it right between another absolutely fabulous 1971 V7 Ambassador and one of those German thingies they call BMW’s (a nice bike actually). The bike was still clean so no need for the chamois. With the hard work done it was time to check out the bikes, wander, have a chat and wait to see the judging.

 

   

 

The judges were watched closely as they checked out the bikes by quite a few onlookers. They appeared particular interested in a very nice 350 Ducati and the BMW next to “The Old Girl”. They moved away, discussed a few things and returned to the BMW and “The Old Girl” for a much closer look. They played with the front and rear wheels, twisted the throttles, checked out the gears and played with the levers and switches. I suppose they were looking for imposters? The judges took some photos made more notes then left. I suppose it was now a matter of waiting to hear the results?

 

The presentations started and a few of us sat patiently for the outcome. Eventually the “Under 750 Continental Class” announcements started. Third place goes to the 350 Ducati. Second place goes to the 1968 BMW. An eternity passes. Is “The Old Girl” first or out? Finally, first place goes to entrant 27 the Moto Guzzi 1969 V7 Special. What a relief. Not happy with one trophy “The Old Girl” also took out the Best Guzzi award. What a winner!