Thunder Roads Magazine of Oklahoma/Arkansas March 2017 | Page 26

FEATURES

POLAR BEAR RUN SHIVERS

Why on Earth are you riding tomorrow ? It ’ s going to be under 40 degrees all day . I know this . I watch the weather . I usually am very astute to what the weather is doing when it ’ s time to ride in any of the winter months . Why am I riding ? I like to think it ’ s because this is the Polar Bear Run and it raises funds for the Ponca City American Legion Riders and the association . They assist Veterans and give them a place to gather and have fellowship with other veterans . This , to me , is a great reason to ride . Regardless of the weather , there ’ s a few events which I feel I cannot say no . Any rides for Veterans is on the top of that list . They don ’ t get the option of not going out in the snow , rain , freezing ice or any other weather condition to fight for my freedom . Therefore , I must bundle up , buckle up my boots and ride for their cause ! No . It ’ s not for everyone , but this ride and its purpose is for me !
This year was no exception to the low temps and high winds . I joined up with my nephew and a few friends to hit the road in a cold 26 degrees at 8am . We head North . My fingers are tingling a bit by the time I reach Ponca City . I look at the kids
26 Thunder Roads Magazine of OK / AR