On Sunday, August 24, 2008 over 5,000 motorcyclist roared through the Farmington Valley and other locations in a benefit ride for the Special Olympics of Connecticut. The Event is known as the "Dream Ride" and Sunday was the eighth annual ride organized and sponsored by Bozzuto's Inc and IGA Hometown Wheels. Bozzuto's Inc is a Cheshire Connecticut based wholesale distributor of food and household products for retailers throughout New England, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. Other sponsors included Crystal Farms, The Farmington Club, Papa's Chrysler Dodge Jeep, All Waste, Trantolo & Trantolo, Abel Womack, Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Carrier Transicold of Southern New England and numerous others. Click here for the complete list of sponsors. Over the previous seven years, the benefit has raised over $740,000. It is estimated that this year, the largest benefit ride to date, will generate over $100,000 for the Special Olympics of Connecticut. The motorcyclists raise money by contributing a minimum donation of $30 per driver and $20 per passenger. Many of the bikes had passengers representing at least $50.00 per bike. I must say the sight was unbelievable. Two dozen police officers volunteered their time to escort the motorcyclists along the 40 mile route. The non-stop procession of  motorcycles lasted for over 35 minutes. The sheer mass of bikes was unbelievable. All of the riders seemed to be enjoying themselves and many waved and beeped their horns as they passed impromptu groups of spectators along the way. Jodi Rell, Governor of the State of Connecticut, has officially proclaimed Sunday, August 24, 2008 as “Annual Dream Ride Day.”  This years event also included a car show held at the Farmington Club, which was also the start and ending location for the benift ride. Below are some photos from the ride.

See you next year!