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This week on the HOG-POD, Ben and Kenny are wrapping up the Week That Was series with a look back at the recent Road Captain Trianing held in Ireland. Road Captains play a hugely important role in the world of HOG. Once trained Road Captians have the skills, the laughs, and the stories that come from stepping up to lead a pack of riders. It’s all about keeping the ride safe, smooth, and full of that Harley energy we all love.

They’ve also got not one, but two Bikes of the Week to dig into. From the details that make each one shine to the way they ride out on the open road, Ben and Kenny give their unfiltered takes on a couple of seriously cool Harleys. Expect plenty of back-and-forth, a few jokes, and maybe even a little friendly disagreement.

And of course, the guys are looking ahead to what’s next. With a big trip to Malta on the calendar and the ROC event right around the corner, there’s a lot to get excited about. They share what they’re most looking forward to, how they’re gearing up, and give a big thanks to everyone who’s been riding along with them throughout the series.

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Jim Hamilton recently joined Kenny and Ben on the HOG POD, where he opened up about life beyond the rugby pitch. In the conversation, he spoke candidly about his passion for motorcycles, the thrill of finding new challenges, and the importance of carving out a fresh identity after professional sport. Hamilton’s down-to-earth nature and honest reflections gave fans a deeper insight into the man behind the rugby jersey, showcasing how he has embraced new adventures and personal growth since retiring from the game.

Jim Hamilton is a former professional rugby union player who built a reputation as one of the toughest and most committed forwards of his generation. Born in Swindon, England, but raised in Scotland, Hamilton represented Scotland on the international stage as a powerful lock. Standing at nearly 6’8”, his physical presence made him a natural fit for the engine room of the scrum, where his strength and determination were vital. He earned more than 60 caps for Scotland, debuting in 2006, and played in multiple Six Nations Championships and Rugby World Cups, leaving a strong mark as a cornerstone of the national side’s pack.

At the club level, Hamilton enjoyed a successful career across several top European teams. He played for sides such as Leicester Tigers, Edinburgh Rugby, Gloucester Rugby, Montpellier, and Saracens. His time at Saracens was particularly fruitful, where he helped the team secure major trophies, including the English Premiership title and the European Champions Cup. Known for his work rate, aggression, and leadership on the field, Hamilton consistently contributed to his teams’ success by bringing stability in the lineout and sheer power in physical contests.

After retiring from professional rugby in 2017, Hamilton transitioned smoothly into a media career. He has become a popular pundit, commentator, and content creator, known for his insightful and often humorous take on the sport. His podcast and media appearances have further expanded his influence in the rugby community, allowing him to stay connected to the game while sharing his experiences with fans worldwide. Hamilton’s journey reflects not only his accomplishments as a player but also his ability to reinvent himself beyond the pitch, making him a respected figure both in rugby and in sports media.

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Ben and Kenny are back together after anotherweek, and they’ve got a packed episode full of bikes, banter, and news. The lads kick things off chatting all things Harley and Triumph, swapping thoughts on what’s new, what’s exciting, and what’s got them itching for the next ride. It’s the kind of catch-up that feels like you’ve just pulled up a chair at the pub with a couple of good mates.

Ben headed to the Scottish Torque Show, sharing the best bits from the event and the bikes that really stood out. On top of that, Kenny managed to squeeze in a quick hop over to Killarney for the day to visit the organisers of Ireland BiekFest—because why not?

And if that wasn’t enough, there’s a triple helping of rallies on the bill this weekend. Jersey HOG, Welsh Dragon HOG, and Lindum Colonia HOG, each bringing its own vibe and plenty of great moments. With so much riding, traveling, and rally-hopping packed into one episode, this one’s all about celebrating the brilliant community that makes the biker world feel like home.

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In this episode, Ben and Kenny saddle up for a wild ride as they look back on the Stormin’ the Castle rally – from the muddy mayhem to a stolen Hob Goblin. They dive into their recent ride through the stunning landscapes of Scotland and along the rugged Northern Irish coastline, sharing stories from the saddle that’ll make you want to pack up and hit the road yourself.

Plus, it’s a double feature for Bike of the Week – a beautifully preserved 1953 Servi-Car trike and one of the original Harleys ridden in Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny. Don’t miss this one – it's part travelogue, part bike porn, and all throttle.

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This week Ben and Kenny catch up on the week including Ben's last trip to Thunder in the Glens, meeting Big Jim Hamilton, the Scottish Rugby international, and Kenny falls down a rabbit hole on selling feet pictures. It also turns out that Kenny's phone number is floating around on beer mats and cubicle doors at rallies

Leeds Harley-Davidson

https://www.ironcitymotorcycles.co.uk/usedmotorcycles/harley-davidson/xlh/265712.htm

Harley-Davidson Riders Club of Great Britain

https://www.hdrcgb.org/

The Big Jim Show

https://open.spotify.com/show/4fhLsSQ6Zf0G2POP2Q05r6

Black Bear Brand

https://blackbearbrand.com/

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In this week’s episode of The Hog Pod, Kenny and Ben are back with another weekly roundup. After a great response to the first one, the pair return with their usual chat, though Ben is under the weather with what he’s calling a serious case of man flu. Despite not feeling 100%, the conversation flows as they cover some of the key moments from the past week.

They take time to reflect on a recent episode featuring Kev (also known as Tallin) and Deborah Smail, whose daughter Chloe sadly passed away. The discussion around their journey from John O’Groats to Land’s End was moving, and Kenny and Ben highlight the strength and determination shown by both guests. While the topic was difficult, they focus on the positive impact and lasting legacy Chloe has left behind.

The episode moves onto Oasis concerts, the Davidson Legacy Cottage being on the way to Thunder in the Glens and the Celtic Thunder Chapters 20th birthday bash next month and the change of guard at the Clyde Valley Chapter. The episode finishes on a lighter note with some updates from the Geordie crew, tying back into the previous story in a more relaxed way. It’s a mix of serious reflection and everyday conversation.

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The Iron Butt ride is a demanding challenge, pushing riders to complete 1,000 miles in 24 hours with minimal breaks for fuel and rest. For the Wolfruna HOG Chapter, this ride was more than just an endurance test—it was a tribute. The riders weren’t just focused on the miles ahead; they were riding in memory of Chloe Smail, whose tragic fall from High Bridge in Newcastle had left her family and friends heartbroken. At the heart of the journey was Deborah Smail, who, despite not riding a motorcycle herself, joined the ride as a passenger with Kev, the Wolfruna Chapter Director. Led by Emma Poole, the national Ladies of Harley Officer for HOG UK and Ireland, the group shared a bond that went beyond the road.

The riders knew they were part of something bigger than just completing the ride—they were part of a collective effort to keep Chloe’s memory alive.

The physical exhaustion was heavy, but the sense of connection and support carried everyone through. Kev, recently diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer displayed a feat of fortitude many would be envious of

By the time the ride came to an end, it wasn’t just about finishing a tough challenge; it was about honouring a life lost too soon and showing the strength of a how the motorcycle community can come together. The Wolfruna HOG Chapter’s Iron Butt ride wasn’t just a test of endurance—it was a powerful act of remembrance, one that would ensure Chloe’s spirit would continue to inspire those who had loved her.

If you are affected by any of the topics discussed, there is help, please reach out for it.

https://www.samaritans.org

https://womensaid.org.uk

https://www.prostatescotland.org.uk

https://prostatecanceruk.org

https://www.mind.org.uk

https://www.headspace.com

https://rapecrisis.org.uk

https://www.rapecrisisscotland.org.uk

#motorcycle #adventure #chloesmail #clo-fest #harley-davidson

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A new addition to the HOG-POD. A catch up of the weeks action from behind the saddle and otherwise. This week's episode covers Belfast Chapter's HOG n BOG Rally, sad news about Thunder in the Glens, the upcoming Malta rally, bottle after bottle of Tequila Rose and having no dad.

We also learn that Ben doesn't like heights, Kenny's dad never came home with the milk and whats in store over the next week or so.