For 17 Christmas seasons, motorcycle riders from across South Georgia and North Florida have brought thousands of toys to thousands of Valdosta-Lowndes County children.
This weekend, the 17th Annual Outback Riders Toy Ride roars once again into town, traveling from Lake Park’s Preferred Outlets along Highway 41 to Five Points. There, the motorcycle riders will present their toys to the Salvation Army for distribution to local boys and girls.
Throughout the years, the number of participating motorcycles has increased. Last year, a record 1,561 motorcycle riders participated.
If the weather holds this weekend, with blue skies and moderate temperatures, the Toy Ride hopes to attract as many if not more riders this year.
Watching the Toy Ride is an event in itself, especially witnessing them coming up Ashley Street. Hundreds of motorcycles.
The faint drone of engines roaring, growing in intensity, a rumble that can shake the pavement under a viewer’s feet.
A line of motorcycles stretching as far as the eye can see. Then, the blurred rush as one after another motorcycle, all types, ridden by men and women from all walks of life, thunder past.
Then, at 5 Points, it is a sight to behold as some of these burly bikers carry their toys to the collection spot.
It is enough to warm even the coldest Scrooge heart, and the Outback Riders and the region’s motorcycle community deserve a big thanks and salute for all they do.
• TOY RIDE
Registration starts 10 a.m. Saturday at the start site of Preferred Outlets in Lake Park. All riders need to register is a new, unwrapped toy.
At 1:15 p.m., Jim George of American Bikers Aimed Toward Education (ABATE) will present the Blessing of the Bikes.
At 1:30 p.m. Saturday, the motorcycles will leave Preferred Outlets, traveling along Highway 41 to Valdosta, making their way to 5 Points, where The Salvation Army will collect the toys.
