SANDY HOOK — Motorcycle legend Gloria Tramontin Struck was recently awarded with an Honorary Membership Card from the Jersey Shore Chapter of the Antique Motorcycle Club of America.
To commemorate the honor, the 90-year-old Struck will participate in a “Freddy” ride on May 15, an 80-mile journey that will begin in Point Pleasant and continue north up the coast to Fort Hancock at Sandy Hook, through the Bayshore region to Red Bank and finally finish up in Belmar.
Struck, whose father owned and operated a motorcycle business, said she grew up riding.
“My first motorcycle was a 1941 Indian Bonneville Scout,” she said in a press release. “Over the years, I’ve owned three Indians and 11 Harley-Davidsons.
“Since 1950, I’ve been riding long distances to races and events all over the country and in Europe. The first time I rode to Daytona Bike Week in [Daytona Beach] Florida was in 1951. And I still ride to Daytona.
“The first time I rode from New Jersey to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota was in 2003. I’ve gone every year since, and I’m in the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum’s Hall of Fame.”
She also does not plan on stopping her rides any time soon.
“When I’m 100 years old, I plan on riding across the country on two wheels,” Struck said. “I believe it’ll be the first time anyone’s done it — male or female.
“I’m very active, and I love new challenges. I always tell people: ‘Live your dreams.’”
The purpose of the Jersey Shore Chapter is the collection, restoration, preservation, use and enjoyment of antique motorcycles as well as parts, accessories and literature pertaining to the history of these motorcycles.
Anyone who is interested in this hobby can become a member even if they do not have an antique bike. Good fellowship, brotherhood, respect and camaraderie among all men and women are encouraged. For more information, find Jersey Shore AMCA on Facebook or contact Mike at [email protected] or 848-992-4904.