It's On! Department of Public Works Street-Steamer Passes On-Field Audition, Will Lead 49ers Out of Tunnel On Opening Day.

Tom Tracy

The leader of the Pack ... er, the 49ers

​Last week we reported that Steve Mahoney, a Department of Public Works steam-cleaner and motorcycle enthusiast, was stoked to be tentatively named the team's new on-field leader. All that was between Mahoney and a gig leading the 49ers onto the field on his custom Harley-Davidson was a driving test. Could Candlestick Park's notoriously boggy conditions handle a man revving his chopper?

Thankfully for Mahoney, the answer is yes. He told SF Weekly that, despite a bad case of food poisoning, he aced his final audition -- "They loved the bike." So, if you're lucky enough to have opening day tickets for September 20 vs. the Seattle Seahawks -- that'll be Mahoney on the gold Harley emblazoned with an old-school 49ers logo.When asked what he'll be wearing he said that is yet to be determined. And when asked how, logistically, this is going to work, he said he won't know until he scouts out the field on the August 22 preseason game vs. Oakland to figure out where the Point A and Point B are for his motorcycle journey.
 
As for what kind of compensation a motorcycle-mounted team-leader is getting these days, Mahoney -- a San Francisco native who used to collect seat cushions from Kezar Stadium for a nickel apiece -- said he didn't bother asking for any money. He just wanted a ticket for himself and his three kids to opening day.

Tom Tracy

Steve Mahoney and his steed

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Photos   |   Tom Tracy