~ THE BIG FOUR - OH ~
40th Annual IMOC Rally
Steven Rossi
Who would’a thunk it. Way back in the mid-1980’s when John Harris, Lynnea Stadlelmann and John Borella sparked what would become the Italian Motorcycle Owners Club (IMOC), that 40 years on, the cognoscenti would still be flying the flag with such two-wheeled fervor! But the dedication carries on and remains fueled by the spirit and emotion of green, white and red passion.
So on Sunday, September 14, 2025, some 300 hardcore Italian-ophiles made their way to the Hamilton Rod & Gun Club in Sturbridge, Massachusetts to celebrate. And what a party it was…judging by the cacophony of Conti pipes that thundered down Hamilton Road, through the Gun Club pine forest.
The turnout of captivating Italian stallions was astounding, with something to savor for each and every palette. As usual, a full menu of Ducatis and Moto Guzzis book-ended the field, with a tasty assortment of the less common marques in the middle. Including a vast array of Italian race bikes which were the recognized 40th anniversary feature. Because racing is clearly the foundation of Italian motorcycle heritage.
Meanwhile, racers require plenty of spare parts, of course. So this year, a good group of vendors showed up with a wide assortment of treasures to share. USCRA (United States Classic Racing Association) graciously participated as well, with a tent of their own.
In keeping with the track sport theme, former Motorcycle Cruiser/Consumer News journalist Mark Zimmerman presented a special award in honor of noted racer Dr. John Wittner, who recently passed. Dr. John is best recognized for his Moto Guzzi exploits but those, in fact, came during the crescendo of his career. Before that, he was simply a dedicated club racer who always pulled for the underdog. Having grown up together around Philadelphia, Mark’s presentation was truly heart-felt.
So here are the IMOC-ers that crossed the finish line at the head of the pack:
Best Aprilia … Vincenzo Garcia, 2023 Tuareg
Best Benelli … Steve D’Angelo, Supersport Racer
Best Etceterini … The Murphy Brothers, 1985 Italjet Trials
Best Italian Race Bike … Matt Phillips, 1960 Ducati 175 F3
Best Laverda … Ethan Corcoran, 1978 Jota
Best MV Agusta … Mike Randi, 2013 Brutale
People’s Choice Ducati … Mike Webber, 851
People’s Choice Moto Guzzi …Brian Dwinnell, 1975 Café
People’s Choice IMOC Award … Brian Dwinnell, 1975 Moto Guzzi Café
Dr. John Award … Randy Tefft, Moto Guzzi V65 Flat Tracker
Once again, the Hamilton Rod & Gun Club also proved to be winners with their fine lunch offerings and available Bar. And the new breakfast sandwich opportunity took top honors, too. Last but not least, the weather was of grand champion caliber. It was simply spectacular!
Next year’s IMOC Rally (the 41st ) will be held on Sunday, September 20, 2026, back at the Hamilton Rod & Gun Club in Sturbridge, Massachusetts. The Contract is signed and paid in full and the feature will be Italian Multi-Cylinder Machines (3, 4 and 6). That should allow enthusiasts to also attend the nearby Rice-o-Rama event, which will probably be held on the prior Sunday, September 13.
Please be aware that due to increasing expense…and most importantly, our sole commitment to contribute to the J.D.R.F. (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) charity in a meaningful way…2026 admission will now be $15 per person. And as a reminder, Please: NO DOGS ALLOWED. This is an active Gun Club that has ongoing events…with live shooting! We want your dog to stay that way…thanks.
Pictures by Photo guru Steve Cote
