Bikers Against Child Abuse - 100 Mile Ride 2015

A couple weeks ago, I ran across this flyer in Snohomish. I had seen some some news clips about Bikers Against Child Abuse (web site) before but did not know they had a presence in this area. Being a parent myself, I am completely supportive of any group that acts to keep kids safe from those who would abuse them. It appears that these efforts are very effective too: studies have shown that children associated with BACA have significantly reduced levels of stress.

So yesterday, I rode up to Sound Harley-Davidson in Marysville to participate.

There was a pretty good turnout, too. This was my first such ride and I didn't get an official estimate but there must have been more than 50 bikes in attendance, continuing around the back of the building in the picture above.

 
Around noon, with a police escort out of town, we headed out on our way.

This map shows the approximate route that we took:

- past the Oso Slide area, we rode East to Darrington for a brief stop

- from Darrington, we headed North towards Baker Lake

- heading West on Highway 20, we rode to Sedro-Woolley next

- finally, back to Sound Harley Davidson

Note: advertised as a 100 mile ride, this one was more like 120-125. This really is a group that goes the extra mile(s) to complete its mission!

There was a lot of camaraderie during the ride. One motorcyclist had been having electrical problems getting close to Darrington, with her engine cutting out and her headlight off. Several riders helped get her problem (battery cables shorting)sorted out during the rest stop. The ride was also kept safe through a lot of obviously skilled coordination.

While we were at Darrington I also had a chance to say Hello to the North Sound Chapter of BACA's President, Superman, and find out more about becoming a supporter or possibly even a member.

Local Triumph riders: why was my Speed Triple (above) the only Triumph there? I know we have several Triumph RATs in the area.

Back at Sound HD, this V-Rod tried to convince me that one more bike would be a good thing to have.
 

This is my first 100 mile ride shirt. I'm sure there will be more!

In conclusion, I'd like to note that this is a great group of people gathered together for the worthy cause of keeping children safe from abuse. If you have some time or money to contribute,
please give their site a look!