Scores of motorcycles shining with chrome and sporting custom paint jobs spent the weekend at the Wallowa County Fairgrounds for the second annual Wallowa County Thunder Run, which took place from Aug. 20-23. Event organizer, Gary Bethscheider, said that although smoke deterred some participants, hardy souls enjoyed a weekend of music, food, games and events.

Without figures tallied, Bethscheider estimated some 700-800 motorcycles participated in the event. “The fire didn’t help us. My phone was ringing off the hook with people asking about the fires and smoke conditions. That kept a lot of people away,” he said.

The Bronze Bike Tribute Parade through Joseph and to the fairgrounds took place on Aug. 21 with about 85 motorcycles participating in the run.

Highlights for the event included the parade and biker games and several bands performing live music. “Quick Throttle,” a motorcycle-oriented magazine, covered the event for a future article.

Lari Rutherford won the Small Bronze Bike raffle, and local resident Steve Wolfe won the raffle for the Springfield 911 .45 pistol. Wolfe promptly donated the piece back to the event to raise more money.

Bethscheider said all the participants had a great time and many planned to come back for next year’s event. “Last year the rain got us, and this year it was the fire and smoke. We’re going to give it hell next year and try to keep it growing,” Bethscheider

said.

Biker Game winners: Weenie Bite, David Colvin and Karry Cathy; Ring Toss, Geoff Nohr and Summer; Slow Drag, Gary Bethscheider; Barrell Race, Carson Meyer; Potato in the Haystack, David Colvin and Karry Cathy; Hot Rod Harley Drag Race, Carson Meyer.