This weekend, the Independent Bikers of Queens had their 30th Annual Toys for Tots run -- an event that residents of Woodhaven became very familiar with over the years as it roared down Woodhaven Boulevard. Hundreds of bikers gathered Sunday at the parking lot in Forest Park, with toys and donations, prepared to make their annual ride to the Bernard Fineson Developmental Center of Queens.
A steady stream of bikers were arriving all morning, and made their way through a maze or barricades set up to keep their exit orderly. There were a lot of hugs as old friends saw each other and a lot of laughter and good feelings.
There were all different kinds of bikes -- it was a lot of fun just to walk around sightseeing. It's such a wonderful cause. In case you missed it, there is going to be a Toys for Tots Classic Car Run in Forest Park November 14th -- same idea, except with classic cars instead of bikes.
Pretty soon, just about the whole parking lot was full -- and, yet, more and more bikers were arriving. Easily there had to be 3 or 4 hundred bikes. Great turnout! And this is what it's all about -- the kids --
What a terrific day. We staked out a spot across from the Forest Park Carousel to see all the bikes go by. Originally we were going to go down by Woodhaven Boulevard and Jamaica Avenue -- we even considered going up on the El Train to get some nice overhead shots -- but it turned out that they didn't take that route this year. Instead, when leaving the park they turned left and went towards Union Turnpike meaning that a number of people who were waiting for them on the Boulevard were a bit disappointed. It's little consolation, but here's some video of the day in the park --
The parade began promptly at 2 PM, led by Mr. and Mrs. Claus and followed by a line of bikers that took at least 10 minutes to pass. It was terrific!
The weather was beautiful and the trees are just starting to change. A perfect day for a bike run -- the riders looked like they were having fun!
We look forward to next year's run -- and thank everyone involved for the kind and generous work they do. Very inspirational. Update: Here is a video of the bike run from Woodhaven's Bobby The Flash Gennaro --
If you have any comments, or would like to suggest other projects, drop us a line at info@projectwoodhaven.com or projectwoodhaven@aol.com .
