Harleylujah!
Pope Benedict Drivers and fans from all over the world visit Italy's capital to celebrate the US brand's 110th anniversary with the Bar & Shield logo. The countdown to the major event was now started by Pope Benedict XVI and Willie G. and Bill Davidson, grandsons and great-grandchildren of company founder William A. Davidson. At their papal audience, the Davidsons presented the head of the Catholic Church with two Harley-Davidson gas tanks, which he blessed. Both tanks will be mounted on motorcycles - each with an autograph from Pope Benedict XVI and Willie G. and Bill. One of the two bikes can be admired in the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee, USA, and the other will be auctioned off to benefit the “Good Samaritan Foundation”.
“Our company anniversary will be much more than just a cool party,” promises Ken Osterman, Harley-Davidson General Manager of International Marketing Operations. “For 110 years, Harley-Davidson has been fueled by the passion and enthusiasm of fans around the world. With the party in Rome we would like to thank all European fans, because without these strong emotions our brand would not be what it is!” Highlights of the 110th Anniversary Celebration in Rome will include the party in the port of Ostia, the parade through the center, two headlining concerts in the Stadio Olimpico and the blessing of the motorcycle by the Pope in St. Peter's Square. “This promises to be one of the largest and most impressive events we have ever held,” says Ostermann happily.
In 11 countries on six continents, the Motor Company will host twelve huge parties in 2013 to spread the values of freedom, individuality and non-conformism that Harley-Davidson stands for around the world. The central celebrations will take place in Rome and in Milwaukee, USA. Harley-Davidson's hometown will be transformed into a massive fan mile from August 29th to September 1st, 2013. In addition to organized motorcycle trips through the city, a party on the shores of Lake Michigan, a huge parade, celebrations at the Harley-Davidson Museum and three headliner concerts are planned. Fans can share their experiences at the parties with each other on the Harley-Davidson channels on Facebook and Twitter
You can always find the latest information about all activities at www.hd.com/110.
Text & Image: Harley-Davidson 2012
