Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame to Host Inaugural “Pearl’s Jam” During 85th Sturgis Rally, Celebrating Women in Motorcycling

STURGIS, SD – July 10, 2025 – (Motor Sports NewsWire) – The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame is proud to announce “Pearl’s Jam,” a full-day event dedicated to recognizing the impact and contributions of women in motorcycling. This historic event, the first of its kind at the museum, will take place on Monday, August 4, during the 85th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in August of this year. It features a major motion picture preview, unveiling of a commissioned painting, a 100th birthday party and an opportunity for riders and enthusiasts to connect with industry notables.

“Pearl’s Jam” honors Pearl Hoel, a co-founder of the Sturgis Rally. This event will highlight her legacy by featuring women who continue to influence the motorcycle world.

The event is designed to allow attendees to drop in at any time throughout the day. There is no fee for the event, and museum entrance is offered at a discount.

Jessi Combs Riding in Black Hills

The day will include a schedule of activities:

• Pearl Award Presentation: The day begins with the presentation of the Pearl Award, recognizing a lifetime of achievement by a woman in the powersports industry.
  Meet and Greets & Information Sessions: Industry notables will be available to discuss their artwork, motorcycle safety, riding skills, and motorcycle culture.
• Gloria Struck’s 100th Birthday Celebration: At mid-day, a special celebration will honor Gloria Struck, a long-time member of the Motor Maids and author of “Gloria: A Lifetime Motorcyclist.”
• “Iron Lilly” Feature Film Preview: A preview of the upcoming feature film “Iron Lilly,” about Lillian Farrow, the first female Harley-Davidson Dealer, will be shown.
  Ray Drea Painting Unveiling: A new painting by artist Ray Drea will be unveiled and added to the Museum’s permanent collection.
• Jesse Combs Foundation: Meet representatives from the Jesse Combs Foundation and view the exhibit honoring her achievements in broadcast, racing, and motorcycle culture.
• Karen and Bill Davidson: Meet the daughter and son of Harley-Davidson’s Chief Styling Officer Emeritus, Willie G. Davidson, who offer their perspective on the Motor Company and their father’s memoir, titled “Ride Free.”
• Music and Food: Music and food will be available throughout the day.

The event features an impressive lineup of motorcycle celebrities and industry leaders, many of whom are members of the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame. Participants include noted motorcycle and car painter Theresa Contreras, author and publisher Cris Summer-Simmons, Harley-Davidson’s Karen Davidson, photographer and artist Olivia and Alexa Jacobs, safety educator Vicki SanFelipo, and publisher Marilyn Stemp.

Jo Giovannoni and Cris Simmons of Harley Women Magazine

“What started as a birthday party for Gloria Struck, will now be one of the most impactful women’s events in the industry,” said Marilyn Stemp, Museum Board member and Hall of Fame honoree. “One highlight will be the presentation of the Pearl Award, which is the most prestigious recognition of a woman in powersports. We are so happy to have it as one of many elements of Pearl’s Jam.”

Lillian Farrow of Iron Lilly Movie

Guiding attendees through the day will be Gina Woods and Penny Osiecki, hosts of Open Road Radio, a top-rated motorcycle radio show in the United States (WCGO Chicago and KSHP Las Vegas).

Pearl and Pappy Hoel Founders of Sturgis Rally

For more information about “Pearl’s Jam,” including the full schedule of events and participant details, rally attendees can visit the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame’s official website at www.sturgismuseum.com. The museum is located on the iconic corner of Main Street and Junction Avenue in Sturgis.

ABOUT THE STURGIS MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM AND HALL OF FAME

Founded in 2001, the non-profit Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame is located at the heart of the world’s largest motorcycle event, the annual Sturgis Rally. It is a top, year-round tourist destination in South Dakota and is considered a “must see” experience for visiting riders. The museum’s collection features over 80 vintage and custom motorcycles, which is one of the world’s largest permanent collections of custom and modified motorcycles. The exhibits also feature an extensive collection of art, including paintings, illustrations, and sculptures. The Museum’s Hall of Fame, which precedes the opening of the museum, includes nearly 280 noted individuals from the motorcycle industry and motorcycle culture around the world. The annual Hall of Fame induction ceremony takes place during the Sturgis Rally each August. The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum is a proud participant in the South Dakota Gives fundraising program.

Source: Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame 

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