A Snapshot of My First H.O.G. Rally

Photographer Rickey Henry embraced the roads, rides, and camaraderie at the Gulf Coast H.O.G.^Â® Rally in Texas.

Iâve been a member of the Harley Owners Group^Â® (H.O.G.) for three years, but I had never once considered attending a H.O.G. rally. Why? Maybe it was the stigma that itâs something âold folksâ do. Or perhaps I didnât think Iâd fit in with the unique style and culture. Nevertheless, I decided to ride down to Beaumont, Texas, for the Gulf Coast H.O.G. Rally to see for myself.

Day 1: Arrival and The Reservation Ride

Once I made it to Beaumont, I tried to check into my hotel, but my room wasnât ready. So, I headed straight to Cowboy Harley-Davidson, the host site of the rally. I was immediately thrust into my first ride experienceâjoining a group headed to the Alabama-Coushatta Indian reservation.

We rode through the Piney Woods of Texas, carving through backroads and sweeping curves. The scenery was breathtaking. When we reached the reservation, it was sereneâbeautiful trees and a large lake right next to where we stopped. I walked down to the water, took it all in, and after stretching our legs, we headed back to the dealership. It was a perfect end to the first day.

Day 2: Stories, Storms, and Connection

Friday started early. I walked into the dealership and saw it buzzing with energyâriders signing up for curated local rides put together by the Cowboy H.O.G. Chapter Beaumont. Thunderstorms were in the forecast, and while I donât mind riding in the rain, I wasnât up for it that day. Instead, I stayed behind and interviewed some fellow riders.

One conversation that stood out was with a couple from Texas, known as âRoad Warriorâ and âLil Miss.â Theyâve ridden together for more than 35 years and were among the earliest H.O.G. members. Road Warriorâs vest proudly displays 800,000 logged miles. Their bond, both with each other and the road, was inspiring.

As the rain rolled in, more riders returned, clad in rain gear. I continued to talk with people throughout the day, and one thing became clear: H.O.G. isnât just about bikesâitâs about community, fellowship, fun, and family. I stopped worrying about fitting in and simply focused on being present.

Day 3: Riding with Purpose

Saturday featured the most meaningful ride of the weekend: the â500 for Lifeâ motorcycle safety awareness ride. After a powerful speech from rally coordinator âJW,â we rode out as oneâmaking sure we were seen and heard on the road.

Later, I joined another group for the scenic ride to historic Fort Travis. The sun finally broke through, and we were off! It was a large group, and the line of bikes stretched far into the distance. We passed through hills, pastures, and over tall bridges that offered sweeping views.

The 174-mile coastal ride to Fort Travis was stunning. We cruised alongside the ocean, and the salt breeze was a welcome companion. After exploring, taking pictures, and sharing stories, we made our way to Port Bolivar beach for a few group photos and more fellowship.

On the way back, we stopped for gas and returned to Beaumont for the closing ceremony. There were giveawaysâcash prizes, gear, even a custom buck knife. It was a fun, fitting way to wrap up an incredible weekend.

All in all, I had an awesome time. We rode, ate, laughed, took pictures, andâdid I mention we rode?

If youâve ever thought about joining a H.O.G. chapter but hesitated, donât. Thereâs so much to see, so many amazing people to meet, and so many miles waiting to be ridden. Take advantage of the time you haveâwhile you have the health and strength to do it.

I came to the rally as a photographer. I left as a friend.