Nearly 500 motorcycles were expected in front of the Verdure Theater in Nice for the 15th blessing of the motorcycles before the departure for Utelle. Organized by the Harley du Coeur, this event is open to all motorcycle enthusiasts. Coming from all corners of France, everyone wishes to have their motorcycle blessed by Father Gil Fiorini at Our Lady of Utelle.
On the occasion of Saint Christopher’s Day—protector of all those who use a means of transport—a convoy of nearly 500 motorcycles sets off for Utelle, escorted by the Les Blue Knights motorcycle club. Needless to say, organization and solidarity were paramount, from gathering at the meeting point to the arrival. Good humor, teasing, laughter, and above all, safety are the order of the day.
Upon arrival around noon, some cars and motorcycles are already in place. Before the much-anticipated blessing, Father Gil Fiorini informs: “Everything concerning the human being must be blessed. Both the motorcycle and the person it belongs to. The one who maintains it and the one who built it should not be forgotten.” Father Fiorini did not forget to remind to “pray for Christians in the East,” as the Pope asked this weekend. “The danger is not that far, action must be taken!” he said, referring to the plight of Christians in Iraq.
Shortly after the blessing, the festivities begin. The hamburger/french fries stand is already prepared to welcome the public. As for the atmosphere, rock concerts are planned, featuring the Blues Sound System, KA Goove, Glamory, or even General Massacre. The Trinité Country association was also present for a country dance demonstration. Finally, Dédé Truqui, a singer-songwriter from Nice, was also present.
Everyone worked hard to ensure the smooth running of the event. “On Saturday, during the setup of the stands, we put everything up in the rain and storm. The weather was not kind to us. But that’s part of the adventure!” declares Angélique Alasta, press attaché of the Harley du Coeur.
“The aim of this celebration is to reward the bikers. They invest in humanitarian projects. Last June, our project, in partnership with the Toques Brûlées, was aimed at sick children at the Archet Hospital. Thanks to the operation 1 lunch = 1 toy, we were able to give each of them a toy.
Soon we will visit a home for autistic people. We will spend a day with them, giving them a ride on our motorcycles. The goal is to bring them a bit of warmth and entertain them as best we can,” recounts Claude Abejan, president of the Harley du Coeur.
Claude Abejan did not forget to thank all those who have contributed to the association’s actions. So many partners who help carry out the actions of the Harley du Coeur!
