The single biggest event in South Dakota is coming soon. The 75th Anniversary of The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. I don't have any hard figures, but I've heard rumbling that a huge percentage of the tax money that comes into the state of South Dakota comes from the Rally.

If you followed the recent news of a deadly biker brawl in Waco, Texas you might wonder if authorities are concerned, my thoughts, are probably not too concerned. On the radar? Yes.

South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley said state Department of Criminal Investigation officials are in contact with authorities in Texas to both gather information and offer assistance in the wake of Sunday’s brawl, which left nine dead, 18 injured and resulted in nearly 200 arrests.

“It’s important to recognize the potential for violence and make preparations,” Jackley said

South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley said state Department of Criminal Investigation officials are in contact with authorities in Texas to both gather information and offer assistance in the wake of Sunday’s brawl, which left nine dead, 18 injured and resulted in nearly 200 arrests.

So, does that mean there's going to be a rumble at Roughlock Falls in Spearfish Canyon? Probably not. My son Jake had an interesting analogy.  He said,

Not having the event or even suggesting not having the event would be like saying Sioux Falls should tear down the new events center because 11 people died at a Who concert in Cincinnati in 1979.

 

I don't ride a motorcycle, heck I don't even have a tattoo but I do like to watch the rally goers and how they behave.

I grew up in Lyman County. Smack dab in the middle of South Dakota. Our family farm is literally the halfway spot from Sioux Falls, to Rapid City. Yes, I know a little bit about Rally Traffic. To be honest half the locals praise the money that comes through the area on two wheels and the other half would just as soon it be September and over already. This event is going to be a HUGE financial boom to the State.

Growing up, there was talk of high school friends who got to go to the Rally with their Dad or an older brother. I was a little jealous hearing about tenting amongst the kick ass parties and carousing.

I think the rally has calmed down a bit. Most of the riders seemed to have segued from the hippy types of the 70's to the those with money crowd. You know, the people who drive a motor home and pull their Harley in an enclosed trailer. The older, more sedate crowd that looks more inclined to pull over and help a stranded motorist change a tire instead of stopping to do potential harm. Most of the bikers I know would break their back to help you out of a jam if you were in one. Those are the kinds of people I like on my side!

So, where does that leave authorities as they plan strategies for the upcoming onslaught of motorcycles and riders. Probably adding a layer or two to strategy already in place.

My guess is, the money event for the State will go off as planned other than a drug arrest or 30, a scuffle or two and hopefully few injuries.

I would also bet money, enough money to buy one of those fancy motor homes and motorcycles on the fact that authorities are beefing up present strategy  to ensure it does.

By the way,  Lyman County is a great halfway spot to stop off and take a break, fill up with gas or buy some snacks. I'm sure the locals will be glad to see you!  And when your about 2 miles west of Kennebec, you're halfway to Rapid City!

 

More From KXRB