A record number of sponsors have stepped up to make the Class of 2016 induction ceremony something special, in addition to the introduction of a special “Lifetime Achievement” award to the legendary Arlen Ness.
“Victory Motorcycles has worked with Arlen for many years now,” says Rod Krois, General Manager of Victory Motorcycles. “Arlen has always been the head of his time, and we are proud to be the Presenting Sponsor at this important event.” Already a Sturgis Museum Hall of Fame member, Arlen was a unanimous choice for the inaugural Lifetime Achievement honors.
Joining the folks from Victory is a new sponsor for this year: Rockwell Watches. The timepiece pros are the Award & Ceremony Sponsor for the Class of 2016. “It is great to have Rockwell making sure everyone has a good time,” quips Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall Of Fame Executive Director Myrick Robbins.
Also new for this year are the Allstate Guardians Of The Ride, five individuals from across the country who have been recognized for their dedication to protecting their fellow riders and promoting safety in their communities. “Allstate has been an advocate for the motorcycle community for many years, and their Guardians Of The Ride initiative is aligned with the goals of the Museum,” says Robbins. “In addition to being our Class of 2016 Gift Sponsor, Allstate is bringing all five of the Guardians to the Sturgis Rally to help shine a national spotlight on their efforts and encourage riders across the country to celebrate the positive impact they’ve had on the riding community and we are honored to have them in attendance.”
Capturing these moments for posterity comes courtesy of Kuryakn, who returns as the Photo Sponsor. “Andy Kawa from Kuryakyn did a phenomenal job last year and we are more than happy to welcome him back,” adds the Museum’s director of business development, Tigra Tsujikawa. Adding to Andy’s photographic efforts will be special video presentations for each member of the Class of 2016 produced by Todd Huffman (of The Motocross Files fame) and narrated by hall of fame broadcaster Dave Despain (who’s new show launched on MAVTV this season.
“We would also like to acknowledge our friends and neighbors from around the Black Hills area who do so much for the Museum and the community year round,” says Robbins. “Without the help, guidance and partnership of the Board of Directors and Black Hills Harley-Davidson, Buffalo Chip, Indian Motorcycles of Sturgis, Lookout Mountain and the Rushmore Regional Business Development team, none of this would be possible.”
Sponsors
Victory Motorcycles – Presenting Sponsor
Rockwell Watches – Award & Ceremony Sponsor
Allstate Insurance – Gift Sponsor
Kuryakyn – Photography Sponsor
Coca-Cola High Country – Coffee Reception & Meal Sponsor
General Sponsors
Black Hills Harley-Davidson
Buffalo Chip
Indian Motorcycles Sturgis
Lookout Mountain
Rushmore Regional Business Development