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Please take a moment to help us support this event by voting for us at Philadelphia plays host to the largest motorcycle parade in the world. And every year it gets bigger. The Philadelphia Public Record wrote, "...it is a awesome display of miracle proportions of human kindness that serves as a magnet drawing thousands of bikers from all over the country." The Parade is organized and sponsored by Delaware Valley Chapter of A.B.A.T.E. ,the Alliance of Bikers Aimed Toward Education. The Delaware Valley Chapter began the tradition on December 13, 1980. What began as a small convoy of 50 bikers delivering toys to sick children has grown to thousands of men and women bikers coming together "For The Kids". As a result, motorcyclists are now sought after to be the forefront of charitable and civic events. The Honorable Seamus McCaffery, Representative Teresa Forcier and Santa Claus were Grand Marshals for last years parade. Learn more about the history of the parade. The Philadelphia Inquirer reported that in excess of 72,000 motorcyclists participated in this most worthy cause. Every biker brought a toy to donate to the hospital. It was estimated that over 100,000 toys were collected! Hospital officials said that the toys will be given to hospitalized children during the Christmas holiday, on birthdays and special occasions. Remaining gifts will be donated to children's shelters. Anyone who rides a motorcycle, regardless the size or make, can participate in the "Toy Run for the Kids". Entry fee is a new toy for any age child from infant to teenagers. Further information can be had by calling 610-449-RIDE. Despite the
change in size and recognition, one thing has remained constant through
the years: to bring the joy of Christmas to the children and a smile to
their faces. "If we can help take a kids attention away from his
illness or pain for even five minutes, then we've accomplished
something," said Santa Claus, also known as Tony Graessie of
Southwest Philadelphia. After all, it's "FOR THE KIDS!" Special thanks go out to Susie for feeding the "Herd" breakfast prior to the run each year. Her ability to serve enough food to ravenous Turtles is greatly appreciated. Thanks as well go out to Al for the pictures he has contributed to our web site. A big thank you to the motorcycle community at large. In January of 2002 alone, viewers from 31 different countries and the U.S., have visited our site. Many of our web site's visitors have made contributions by linking their site to ours via our Free For All Links Page. Others have listed their motorcycle event in our Interactive Motorcycle Events Calendar. In the past four years, our site has grown from a small, two page web site to what you see today, a growing, global, interactive community. This would not have been possible without your participation.........many thanks! Detailed information on over 380 rides rallies and motorcycle events in 2007.
Copyright © 1999 Herd of Turtles MC™. All rights reserved.
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leads the 2002 Toy Ride for the Kids Parade.
Bikers parking at C.H.O.P -Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
Stephen Stephen, a patient at the hospital, greets the bikers and lifts his mask to smile for the camera.
Pat Croce Pat Croce, former President of the Philadelphia 76'ers and Grand Marshal of the 2000 Toy Ride, makes a new friend.
Mark Shultz Mark is PR Director for A.B.A.T.E. He has expertly herded the "Herd" in years past. No easy task!
Phillie Phanatic The Philadelphia Phillies biggest fan, the Phanatic, mugs for the camera at Children's Hospital.
Susie Feeds The Herd Who's the Turtle drinking a beer with his pancakes?
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Join the Herd of Turtles Motorcycle Club™ for the the 25th annual "
