And it seemed as if there was something for everyone. Nightly entertainment featured superstar Grammy Award-winner Sheryl Crow, the gentle music performed by Burt Bacharach, the country hits of Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers, and some good old rock ‘n’ roll performed by a number of aspiring Elvis Presleys. Hundreds of vendor booths exhibited the latest RV lifestyle accessories, and all types of RVs were on display including models from Winnebago, Thor, Fleetwood, Jayco, Newmar and Tiffin.
Seminars on a wide variety of topics took place each day such as the history of bourbon, increasing engine performance and even downloading digital photographs. The ladies had their own RV driving seminar plus a session on the hats of the Derby. There were also programs each day designed especially for the kiddos on board. And even the pooches had their own day with the first ever Bark Park, the popular Derby Dogs dog show, and dog training tips from Dogs for the Deaf’s Robin Dickson. Many Rally guests won some fantastic prizes in Camping World’s Match ‘N Win contest, which was also an opportunity to gain new friends at the Rally. Life members were treated to a special reception with Good Sam CEO and Chairman, Marcus Lemonis. And a popular new addition was the Good Sam Culinary Experience featuring Food Network chef Bob Blumer and RV cookbook author Evada Cooper.
On Sunday, military veterans were recognized when they proudly marched behind the flag of their branch of service through the halls of the Kentucky Exposition Center, some still fitting in their actual uniforms. They were reviewed by retired U.S. Army Brigadier General Julius “Bud” Berthold and two Medal of Honor recipients, Woody Williams and Don Jenkins. This military event – sponsored by Coast to Coast Resorts – was humbling to all who attended.
With the Louisville Rally memories still fresh in our minds, we’re looking forward to the next Rallies that will take place. The last Good Sam Rally for 2012 will take place November 2 through 4, at Florida’s Daytona International Speedway. And as recently released, the 2013 Good Sam Rallies will take place in Albuquerque, New Mexico at the Balloon Fiesta Field, April 11 through 14, 2013 and Syracuse, New York, June 13 through 16, at the New York State Fair.
The Daytona Rally will feature many of the favorite Louisville activities including the huge trade show, the educational seminars, vintage RVs on display, the Rally Dog Show and the Veterans’ Salute. Most exciting is that they will all be going on in the infield of the World Center of Racing, the Daytona International Speedway!
For more information on the Daytona Rally and to view a slideshow of the great times enjoyed in Louisville, visit the Rally website at www.therally.com, or call (877) 749-7122 for more information.