Toys for Tots ride kicks off season

Mark Harris of McHenry waits for the start of the Toys for Tots Kickoff Benefit Motorcycle Run at Kief's Reef at Burton's Bridge near McHenry. The event brought riders to Woodstock and then onto Wonder Lake and Antioch before heading back to McHenry. (Sandy Bressner photo)

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McHENRY – More than two dozen motorcycles purred in tune before taking off along a bike run course to Antioch and back Sunday morning. The bikers, including one dressed in Santa Claus gear, all were riding for one cause – the season kickoff to benefit Toys for Tots. "It's a reason to ride, and a good reason," said Rich Zaccagni of Algonquin before starting up his Harley-Davidson. "It's good to see all these Marines out here, too." It was Zaccagni's third or fourth ride in the annual event, sponsored by the Fox Valley Children's Organization and U.S.M.C.R. Marine Air Control Group 48. The poker run began and ended at Kief's Reef in McHenry, making stops along the way in Woodstock, Wonder Lake and Antioch. Each participant brought at least one unwrapped toy, from big. stuffed animals to educational games for young children. Those with the winning poker hands at the end of the day were awarded cash prizes, while other items such as gift cards, T-shirts and tool sets were up for grabs in raffles. Jeff Meyer of Algonquin, riding a Yamaha Roadster, joked with friend Zaccagni before taking off with the run's first bike pack. It was his first time participating in the event. "I'm riding with my buddy Rich, who has a Harley and looks down on me," Meyer said, laughing. "It's just a worthy cause, to come out on a Sunday morning and benefit Toys for Tots." Vicky Meyer, president of the Fox Valley Children's Organization, said this was the run's eighth year in McHenry County. Money raised not only goes toward Toys for Tots, but also helps fund programming for the local children's group. She added that she was hoping for about 200 riders but wasn't sure if Sunday's clouds would produce those numbers. Zaccagni, on the other hand, said the overcast day was perfect. "I just kick back and enjoy the ride," he said. On the Net For information about Fox Valley Children's Organization events, visit www.FVCO.org.