Motorcyclists head to Port Dover for Friday the 13th rally

The long-established Friday the 13th motorcycle rally is underway in Port Dover with safety protocols and COVID-19 restrictions in place.

The sound of music and roaring of motorcycles was beginning to fill the air around 8 a.m. Friday as bikers made their way into the lakeside town for the traditional gathering.

The festivities are expected to look slightly different today due to the pandemic.

Port Dover councillor Amy Martin said the county did not issue permits for vendors who normally set up tents selling merchandise along the strip.

Earlier this week, Norfolk County mayor Kristal Chopp said there would be no entertainment and noted the province’s limitations of 100 people for an outdoor gathering.

Before the pandemic, the event would bring in nearly 200,000 motorcycle enthusiasts. Last November, roughly 3,000 people showed up.

Acting Ontario Provincial Police Sgt. Ed Sanchuk was on site Friday morning and was surprised at the number of visitors.

“I was actually shocked that we didn’t have a line of motorcycles coming into town,” said Sanchuk. “I think when we actually have people coming down here, but most are coming in and then leaving.”

Sanchuk believes traffic will get heavier throughout the day but says there is no way of knowing exactly how many people will take part in the rally.

“Right now it’s a roll of dice for how many people we are going to be expecting today. But I can tell you there is an increased police presence and we will respond to any calls of service that may come our way,” said Sanchuk. “Please make sure you enjoy yourself in a safe and responsible manner. Properly distance yourself and follow the proper guidelines.”

Slow start to #FridayThe13th however #Motorcycle enthusiasts are arriving in #PortDover. Please make sure YOU #PayAttention and #drivesafe. Remember to check twice it will save a life! @NorfolkCountyCA #NorfolkOPP ^es pic.twitter.com/e4vOAHq9vn

— OPP West Region (@OPP_WR) August 13, 2021