2020 – Harry Grant

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Harry Grant of Smithfield, RI was inducted into the New England Trials Association Hall of Fame on Thursday, October 22, 2020, during a ceremony at his home.

Grant, 68, began competing in off-road Observed Trials motorcycle competition in the early 1970s, quickly rising to the Top Ten Riders and achieving Expert ranking. He went on to become one of the top riders in New England for several decades.

In addition to competing in New England events, Harry participated in many National competitions in the 1970s. In 1975, Harry was one of just a handful of US riders to compete in the first World Championship Observed Trials Competition held in the United States. The event was held in the Exeter/West Greenwich area of Rhode Island. 

“Harry is a one of a kind person and competitor”, said Bruce Adler, Harry’s long time friend and training partner. “He would practice well into the evening at lighted areas alongside the interstate highway. There are extremely few people with Harry’s degree of determination “ said Adler. Stu Preston, President of the New England Trials Association added “Harry is indeed a legend and his name will live on forever by way of this prestigious award”. 

During his many years of competition, Harry was a spectacular athlete and sportsman willing to assist and mentor new riders and competitors. As late as 2019 Harry was still competing in the Senior classes of Observed Trials in various New England locations.

Pictured during the award presentation are (L-R) NETA officer Bill Bonneau, Hub Brennan, Harry Grant and R.I. Trials Club President Carl “Coach” Swanson 

13 thoughts on “2020 – Harry Grant”

  1. Harry,

    Now let’s be serious. How much did it cost and who did you have to pay? I’m so old now I can’t even remember if I’m in the “Hall of Fame”, who I had to pay, or how much it cost me? Harry, you know I love you. I don’t want our friendship to end with this lifetime. May God Bless You! He loves you too. Your Friend, Don Sweet

    Reply

  2. Way to Go Harry!!! Older guys keep on plunking along. Hope to see you again in 2021. Just saw the induction notice today, BEST OF LUCK

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  3. Harry,
    Congrats to you on your receiving the Hall of Fame award. I always look forward to seeing you at the events and talking about the old days. I always looked up to you way back then.

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    • If you were to name the best riders in New England and NETA trials being one of the biggest and best groups in the early days of trials in the USA in the 1970’s as evidenced by their hosting along with the Rhode Rovers of the inaugural Wagner Cup- the First World Trials Championship event held in America in 1975, Harry Grant would be on that short list of riders ( Don Sweet, Len Thompson, Bill Blythe, Bruce Adler) that you wanted to watch and hope to ride like. I was lucky enough to watch his great skills as a new rider and my Dad and I got to practice with Harry several times on some of his secret practice sections and as a kid just learning that was such a thrill and the memories from such a long time ago are as clear as if it was last weekend. I’m glad that Harry has been honored with this well deserved honor.

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  6. Harry,

    Congratulations on your induction into the NETA Hall of Fame. Your rock solid tenacity and amazing level of determination have been an inspiration to all of us who have had the good fortune to know you and ride with you.

    Looking forward to seeing you in 2021.

    Bob Mourachian

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