STREET. IGNACE, MI – Last week, a Fruitport man celebrated the 50th anniversary of driving the 25 millionth vehicle across the Mackinac Bridge, according to the Michigan Department of Transportation.
Bob Kuchar was 24 years old on May 21, 1974, when he rode his 1972 Suzuki 250 motorcycle across the Mackinac Bridge as part of his plan to tour Lake Michigan on his motorcycle.
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Kuchar said he was surprised to learn he was in the 25 millionth vehicle to cross the stretch. The surprise included a photo op with MBA Executive Secretary Lawrence Rubin and a prize package valued at $500 donated by Straits-area businesses.
It also included hotel and food vouchers, as well as a free tank of gas. Unfortunately, she had just filled her four-gallon tank just before crossing.
As he continued his journey around the lake, Kuchar stopped in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, where an approaching storm scuttled the remainder of his trip. He decided to take the ferry back across the lake to Ludington.
When Kuchar arrived home, his parents had several newspapers on the kitchen table with articles about his historic crossing of the Mackinac Bridge.
“It was an experience for a 24-year-old, and it was a great feeling to be number 25 million,” he said. “The representatives of the St. Ignace and Mackinaw City Bridge Authority could not have welcomed me better.”
On May 21, 1974, Bob Kuchar was a 24-year-old General Motors employee on vacation when he crossed the Mackinac Bridge on his 1972 Suzuki 250 motorcycle. Michigan Department of Transportation.
Kuchar, now 74, planned to cross the bridge this time on his 2019 Husqvarna 350 FE dual-sport motorcycle, but opted to cross it in his pickup truck due to concerns about crossing the bridge in high winds on Thursday, May 23. .
Although he has crossed the bridge several times over the years, this crossing was only a one-day trip. After a quick tour of the Mackinac Bridge Authority (MBA) management and maintenance facility, she enjoyed lunch at Clyde’s in St. Ignace before returning home.
“Having my name associated with the iconic Mighty Mac, I am no less honored that I was once again welcomed to visit you all,” Kuchar said. “Some family and friends regretted not getting another photo of me on my bike paying the toll, but most said ‘maybe next time.'”
On May 23, 2024, Kuchar drove his 2017 Ford F-150 across the bridge to commemorate the 50th anniversary of his historic 1974 crossing. Michigan Department of Transportation.
Kuchar retired from DELPHI Automotive Systems in 2005 and now lives in Fruitport with his wife of 45 years, Jackie. The couple has three children and two grandchildren.
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