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.
