since July 3, 2004.They came bearing gifts - toys, games and stuffed animals to be given to charity. Some dressed as holiday-inspired characters, while others just dressed to stay warm - reasonable, since these gift-givers arrived on two wheels.
The 26th annual Olympia Toy Run brought out a convoy of Hondas, Harleys, Kawasakis, Suzukis, BMWs, Yamahas, and even minature skooters. Some decked out their bikes with lights and miniature Christmas trees.
Event coordinator Joe Sullivan led the parade, which began at South Sound Center, dressing as Santa Claus. Several riders sported holiday garb instead of or along with the traditional leathers and Sturgis memorabilia.
Sullivan worried that Friday's weather might put a damper on the parade. Luckily, the weather cooperated, with just a slight breeze and a break in the clouds.
"I thought we were going to be walking in a foot of water," Sullivan said in Sunday's The Olympian.
Spectators gathered along Sleater-Kinney, Martin Way, State, Capitol Way, and 5th Ave. down to Capitol Lake in order to catch a glimpse of the leather-clad gift-givers.
All toy donations benefit the Salvation Army charities.
Approximately 7,000 bikers participated in the event.
Copyright © 2003-2004, Talia M. Wilson
published in Cooper Point Journal, Dec. 11, 2003
since July 3, 2004.