Back in the autumn of 2008, Venom (Volkswagen Enthusiasts Network Of Milwaukee) Motorsports continued its 11-year tradition with the Fall Kettle Kruise. The 150-mile touring event is named for the Kettle Moraine state forest, where most of the cruise takes place. With a backdrop of stunning fall colors, the scenic route twists through rolling hills left behind by glaciers. And each year, the majority of the 80 club members attend.
The day started early with breakfast, where participants received a goodie-bag packed with cool stuff provided by a number of different sponsors. Additionally, VW of America has also come through for the past two years with some great items.
After breakfast, a brief driver's meeting takes place and the group rolls out for the spirited drive. Halfway through the five-hour cruise, the various splinter groups re-unite for lunch at an outdoor hamburger stand. Everybody then assembles for the run back to Road America in Elkhart Lake, WI.
Venom has grown steadily over the past several years and the club has created a number of events to keep its members involved and entertained throughout the year. Each spring, for example, Peeps in the Park picnic is the club's largest social event of the year. It includes games, a cook-out and a short GTA rally, which make it a great occasion for the whole family.
All summer long, club members organize cruises and participate in shows throughout the Midwest. And the Milwaukee cruise to the Chicago Volkswagen Association (CVO) Midwest Treffen has seen more than 100 cars for the past several years - something they hope to continue in '09. In the winter months, the club has several events including indoor karting and the Chicago Auto show. And every year, its members look forward to the Kettle Kruise as possibly one of the last chances to cruise with the club before winter arrives.
After the cruise, many of the club's VWs get the annual winter treatment of steelies and a set of winter rubber. Other members put their cars into hibernation inside a garage and bring out "The Winter Beater".
Anybody living in the Wisconsin area is welcome to join the activities. You can check them out at www.venommotorsports.com and keep track of everybody's project cars on the club forums.