Woolacombe is a firm favourite on the National Rally calendar and quite rightly so, as it continues to be as good and as popular as ever.
The rally is based on the Golden Coast Leisure Park and the accommodation always sells out instantly, resulting in neighbouring holiday parks also benefitting from scooterists looking to join in the fun. The South West Scooter Collective (SWSC) really have a knack of organising a great event and being experienced party animals themselves they know what makes for a great party.
Night rider
So, as always, I was really looking forward to this one. As usual, I was running late from work, so the ride down on a Friday evening catching the rush hour around Bristol was always going to be interesting. The usual mile after mile of filtering finally gave way to the enjoyable ride cross country to Woolie from the M5. It was only made more exciting by road closures, diversions, a sprinkle of rain and mud on the road, all in the pitch black with a Vespa headlight to dimly light my path.
To say I was ready for a drink when I arrived was an understatement. Thankfully our group had secured a chalet near to last year’s, so I knew where I was heading. After a quick freshen up I wandered down to join in the fun in the main room.
Variety
For those that haven’t made it to Woolie before, it really is a great venue, spread across a number of rooms and the main room with DJs spinning all sorts either side of the bands. With a separate soul room and a couple of side rooms for chilling, chatting, or bowling. There’s even a pub on site and a beach bar, unfortunately nowhere near the beach, but it’s open till 3 am so is always popular with those looking to continue partying when the main rooms close.
The (under) 45s
Friday night’s band were The 45s and they powered through a set of soul and R&B tunes. The soul room as usual drew a big crowd all weekend, it’s always good to move around the rooms as it’s the only way to bump into friends – young and old, as there is so much choice to keep us entertained.
Beach bar
Another good thing about Woolie is that the bar staff have learnt over the years that scooterists like a drink (or several) and know how to keep everyone topped up quickly in the SWSC Woolie plastic glasses. Being easily led, I found myself chatting and drinking well into the early hours at the Beach Bar, until the security staff sent us off to our digs at 4 am. The security were on good form and joined in with the pissed scooterist wit and banter so it all added to the good vibes.
Custom show
Unfortunately, being easily led also meant I was hanging when Saturday morning (read that as midday) dawned. So a life-saving bacon and egg sandwich (thanks Helen) and several very strong coffees kicked me into gear, meaning I just caught the end of the custom show and had a wander around the stalls.
Bay watch
The SWSC had arranged a constant flow of minibus taxis to ferry those interested up and down the hill to Woolacombe seafront. They also organised live music from Brick Top and a variety of fun and games (including the popular beer bingo) for those happy to stay on the site. It’s traditional for us to pop into town to see the scenic bay and have a wander, grabbing a pasty and then being easily led again visiting the pubs for a few medicinal ciders.
Thankfully the weather was kind and the forecast rain dodged us, so we could enjoy the pub garden (or street) drinking and atmosphere.
As the afternoon drew to a close, the traditional fish and chip shop visit set us up for the night ahead.
Angelo Starr and The team
Saturday night’s band was Angelo Starr, Edwin’s brother, who was backed by Edwin’s excellent ‘The Team’ band. The SWSC also have a knack of putting on some great bands and Angelo went down a storm. The room was heaving and he went through an excellent set, getting the crowd singing along and cheering for more. Eventually, he sent the band off stage and did an acapella medley for a final encore and goodbye. I know Angelo Starr has already been booked for other upcoming rallies so if you get a chance check him out, he certainly has his brother’s showmanship.
Hello Sailor
In amongst the crowd you could spot a number of sailors and seaman bobbing about, they weren’t fresh in on a boat, but dressed up for the annual Company C SC closet party, with a nautical theme this year.
VIDEO: Elvis is in the building
Unfortunately, I had to head home on Sunday and the forecast heavy rain this time followed me for large parts of my ride. Oh, the joys of riding Italian shopping bikes in the UK ‘summer’ and the gratitude of decent riding kit.
The Sunday night at Woolacombe is, for many, the pinnacle of the weekend. That SWSC knack of finding quality bands continues on a Sunday where often the bands are more party, singalong style. Many still quote the Mariachi band from several years ago as the best night they’d experienced at a rally, so a lot to live up to. Step forward Elvis, not literally obviously, as a skeleton wouldn’t be that entertaining nor stepping anywhere, but Gordon Davis (as Elvis) by all accounts did a great job in getting the crowd singing and dancing.
Fancy dress is also encouraged on Sunday night and many enter in to the spirit and join in the fun. Check out Booga’s photos for inspiration for the future. Another excellent SWSC Woolacombe rally, thanks to Andy, Stuart and all the SWSC crew for all their hard work. Fingers crossed we manage to get digs again for next year.
Ride safe: Shaun (the photobomber)
Images: Booga and Shaun, (additional Sunday video and Elvis photos: Andy Greenslade)
