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Harley-Davidson Selects Milwaukee as Home to Annual H.O.G. Rally

18 July 1999

1st Rally Planned for June 21-24 2000

    GREENVILLE, S.C.--Milwaukee will host the Annual Harley Owners Group (H.O.G.) national rally for the next three years, Harley-Davidson officials announced Friday at the 1999 Annual H.O.G. Rally in Greenville, S.C. The first rally is planned for June 21-24, 2000.

    The annual H.O.G. rallies are expected to attract 10,000-12,000 motorcycle enthusiasts to Greater Milwaukee. Special anniversary rallies, like last year's 95th Reunion, attract about 150,000 visitors.

    "The annual H.O.G. rallies will make Milwaukee a destination point for thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts and have a meaningful impact on the economy," said Jeff Bleustein, Harley-Davidson chairman and CEO.

    "This is the largest piece of multi-year event business ever booked for the Milwaukee community, bringing 20,000 room nights to area hotels each year of the event," said Bill Hanbury, Greater Milwaukee Convention and Visitors Bureau president and CEO. "Using an industry standard of three as a multiplier, each Annual H.O.G. Rally will be worth $26 million to the Milwaukee area."

    "Milwaukee has earned a reputation with our customers for its excellent hospitality during our anniversary reunions," Bleustein said. "The Harley Owners Group members know they can expect good food, good people and good fun in our hometown. Thanks to the community and the support of the Greater Milwaukee Convention and Visitors Bureau, we're bringing the Annual H.O.G. Rally home to Milwaukee."

    H.O.G. has previously held its national rallies at locations throughout the country. Harley-Davidson is exploring the possibility of making Milwaukee the permanent home for the Annual H.O.G. Rally, furthering the city's identity as a mecca for Harley-Davidson enthusiasts.

    "We look forward to hosting a broad range of activities which will celebrate Milwaukee as Harley-Davidson's birthplace," Bleustein said.

    The Midwest Express Center will be the focus of the rally's events. Activities also are expected to take place at locations around Milwaukee.

    H.O.G. was founded in 1983 and has more than 450,000 members and 1,100 chapters worldwide. The organization focuses on riding and creating ways for members to share their passion for Harley-Davidson motorcycles.

    Harley-Davidson, Inc., is the parent company for Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Buell Motorcycle Company and Eaglemark Financial Services, Inc. Harley-Davidson Motor Company, the only major U.S.-based motorcycle manufacturer, produces heavyweight motorcycles and offers a complete line of motorcycle parts, accessories, apparel and general merchandise. Buell Motorcycle Company produces sport and sport-touring motorcycles. Eaglemark Financial Services, Inc., provides wholesale and retail financing, insurance and credit card programs to Harley-Davidson dealers and customers.