Nearly 100 motorcyclists took part in the Newport News Sheriff’s Office’s Escorted Motorcycle Ride for Project Lifesaver on Sunday, October 15. They talked about how much they enjoyed this year’s ride and are looking forward to next year’s event.
Riders started pulling in to Newport News Park around 9 a.m. Just before 11 a.m., they listened to a safety briefing from Lt. Summerford with NNSO Motors. Then they got on their bikes. The keys turned, engines roared and one by one, they rode out of Newport News Park.
Deputies on motorcycles and in units were out in front and at the end of the line to make sure the ride went smoothly.
For about an hour, the bikers rode around the Peninsula, along the Colonial Parkway, the waterfront in Yorktown and seeing the sites before returning to the park.
Afterwards, the participants lined up again – this time for lunch. After getting their fill of hot dogs, chips, and soft drinks, they gathered by the park shelter to bid on items like a handmade birdhouse, gift cards to local businesses and to see if they had the winning ticket for the 50/50 raffle.
Lt. Patrick-Gross, who organizes the event each year, conducted a post-ride review with the volunteers from Team NNSO.
All the proceeds help the NNSO keep Project Lifesaver free for those Newport News residents who need it. Right now, there are 65 adults and children covered by Project Lifesaver. Sheriff Gabe Morgan says it’s important that families who need this coverage can get it without worrying how to pay for it.
What a ride! It was a great way to spend a Sunday!
It’s not too early to mark your calendar so you can be part of the fun in the 5th annual ride in October 2018.