MONTAGUE — The motorcycle group, the Mohawk Ramblers had their most successful charity ride yet, raising about $3,000 for the children orphaned by a car accident on Route 63 in late February.
“The run was a huge success,” said John Burek of the Mohawk Ramblers. More than 70 motorcycles showed up for the benefit ride on Saturday, which left from Cherry Rum Plaza in Greenfield.
The ride took bikers north on Route 5 and then east on Route 2, ending the ride back at the Mohawk Ramblers clubhouse on Bartlett Road on the Lake Pleasant side of the Montague Plains.
Up to 20 people who didn’t ride showed up for the barbecue.
“I heard it was a big success. I’m so grateful for everyone’s help, donations, and prayers. A special thank you to the Mohawk Ramblers and John Burek for what they’ve done for my family,” said the children’s grandmother, Raquel Felkner, who lives in Florida.
The children Odin, 5, Lugh, 3, and Eira, 1, who lost their parents, Millers Falls residents Anthony Darling and Brittney Wheeler, also came to the fundraiser and spent most of the day playing outside of the clubhouse.
Their parents died in a predawn collision with a tractor-trailer truck near Millers Falls on Route 63. The children now live with their legal guardian, Bobbi Hamel in Athol. She said she was overwhelmed by the generosity of the motorcycle crew. “I was speechless. I couldn’t believe it. I was happy. Words can’t even describe how I felt,” she said when asked about the event.
Every year the Mohawk Ramblers hold a charity ride on the weekend after Memorial Day. “There is always someone who needs help,” said Burek.
The charity ride last year benefited Bikers Against Child Abuse, an organization dedicated to empowering and creating safe spaces for children who were victims of child abuse.
You can reach Lisa Spear at:
lspear@recorder.com
or 413-772-0261, ext. 280