Fort Collins, CO (May 31, 2019) – Realities Ride, the world’s largest poker run and one of the largest fundraising vehicles for Realities For Children charities, hosted its annual rally and ride for the kids on Memorial Day Weekend. Over the past 18 years, Realities Ride has become the single largest motorcycle Poker Run in the world, and the Rally has grown into an unparalleled two-day motorcycle event. This year’s rally raised over $100,000 in emergency funding for children in Northern Colorado who have been abused, neglected or are at-risk.
“I’ve been serving in child protection nearly 30 years,” said Craig Secher, president and founder of Realities For Children Charities, “and the level of community spirit, the desire of people to help the children we serve is an overwhelming and humbling experience every year.”
This year’s ride began at Thunder Mountain Harley-Davidson in Loveland and wound up in downtown Fort Collins at Washington Park with stops throughout the front range. Over 3,000 riders participated, and thousands more enjoyed a bevy of events.
Crowds were thrilled by the Street Cowboys Motorcycle Stunt Show, and the Cycle Source Bike Show featured over 50 bikes in 25 different classes. People lined up early and often for bike games, then enjoyed music from top regional acts on the Thunder Mountain H-D Stage. Over on the Law Tigers Stage, the Patriotic Pin-up Contest captivated rally goers, as did Webb’s ColorFest Tattoo Competition.
On the lighter side of things, Schrader’s Grand Prix adult trike relay race put some smiles on faces. Spectators were thrilled when Josh Allison of Orange County Choppers showed up, signed autographs and led the ride. The Hooters Bike Wash was a favorite as well, and the Lion Home Services Patriotic Costume Contest featured families honoring Memorial Day weekend and vying for $1,500 in cash prizes. Phillip Kelly, who just moved to Colorado from Texas, ended up with the best hand, with 4 queens, and took home the $1,500 cash prize donated by Tri-City Cycle.
All told, thousands came out and enjoyed great entertainment, great camaraderie and great riding, all while honoring those who served and serving those in need with meaningful support. Preparations are already underway for next year’s 19th iteration of this great rally and ride.
Please follow the Realities Ride Rally on our Facebook page and Instagram or look up #realitiesride19
–Ken Conte
Photo Credit Derek Kendall
