Clarence "Pappy" Hoel "Leader of the Pack"

J.C. Hoel was born May 30, 1904, and, as a boy, was always interested in engines, probably why he became interested in motorcycles in later years. He married Pearl Kinney on May 19, 1928 and ran a successful ice business, the Canyon Springs Ice Company, until electric refrigerators made his future look bleak. In the late 30’s he obtained an Indian Motorcycle franchise, Hoel's Motors on Junction Avenue in Sturgis. In 1938 Pappy determined he was going to host a race; nine racers showed up to compete and about 200 spectators showed up to watch. From that little race the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally was born and Pappy Hoel is credited with starting it all. When Indian Motor Company closed their doors in the 50’s he switched to a Yamaha franchise which he continued until his retirement. He was one of the founders of the Jackpine Gypsy Motorcycle Club and was awarded a Life Membership in the Club and also in the AMA. Among other honors he received were Number 1 plaque from the Sturgis Chamber of Commerce for outstanding promotion of Sturgis, South Dakota; in 1971 he received a plaque for promoting tourism from the Black Hills Badlands and Lakes Association; a plaque from the Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club for years of service; a watch from the Indian Motor Company; a trip to Japan, watch and inscribed Winchester Rifle from Yamaha, Inc.; a plaque from the Retread Motorcycle Club International, Inc.; the Sturgis short track was named in his honor; in 1983 he received the Dud Perkins Award for Outstanding contribution to the sport of motorcycling from the American Motorcycle Association; and J.C. "Pappy" Hoel day was proclaimed on August 14, 1983, by South Dakota Governor, William Janklow. Pappy passed away at the age of 85 on February 1, 1989 and is buried in Bear Butte Cemetery in Sturgis.

Printed on museum quality archival canvas using the finest pigment-based inks with a lifespan of over 100 years, without fading. This process produces a reproduction, which is virtually indistinguishable from the original. Numbered and signed with artist signature. Certificate of Authenticity included. All canvas prints are shipped framed with a gallery wrap or floater frame, based on customer's selection.