Time for the second segment and I am without a doubt excited to be sharing this post with you.
The Toys In The Sun Run brings motorcyclists together for a very worthy purpose: the joy of a child receiving a gift at Christmas as well as raising funds for Joe DiMaggio’s Childrens Hospital. Strapped to bikes four abreast in row after row are lots and lots of brand new children’s toys. Gleaming bikes sport different names and badges and colors and their riders range from all-season diehards to weekend enthusiasts. For this day, they are one sister/brotherhood of riders thinking of the smiles their toys will bring to kids’ faces.
The roaring thrum of thousands of motorcycle engines fill the December air. But this is not a day just for motorcyclists as tens of thousands of spectators line the parade route, excitedly waving, calling and whistling to the riders. Both directions of the street are closed to all but motorcyclists, yet drivers on side streets honk and wave. Though riders come from all over to participate in this event, it’s a day to be proud of South Florida, the fellowship that brings us together and the goal we accomplish. It’s thrilling, breathtaking, moving…and downright fun.
Did I mention live music? I know I did though I’m saying it again. This year’s toy run was certainly not lacking in the entertainment department. With performances by Soulicide, Jasmine Caine and Dee Snider of Twisted Sister among others, there was no shortage of great music and good times.
Being about the stage throughout Soulicide’s performance and watching not just them, but the crowd’s enjoyment made the experience that much more amazing. At least for myself. It was like I was feeding off of it.
Wow, are they energetic too. Between that energy and the rush of being up on stage doing what I love was the perfect high for me. Matter of fact, I think I’m still having withdrawals. Needless to say I certainly got carried away behind the lens. Once the music began, it was automatic.
As for myself, being the photographer for Soulicide for the day, I was on cloud 9. These guys are fantastic. Not only are they a great group of guys, they know how to rock. Trip, Kent, Rick and Mike do not disappoint. Definitely check them out if you have the opportunity to catch them at a venue near you. You can check out their scheduled performances on Facebook Soulicide .
As for my photos, did I mention I got carried away? Yeah, I did. There was a lot of images taken and I had such a difficult time choosing which ones to share with you here. Even my Facebook album was on the generous side in regards to photos. I did manage on narrowing it down slightly though not by too much. Check out the full album on my page Through The Eyes of a Queen or just browse through my selects HERE. And if you want to donate for the kids, you still can by clicking on this link.
Now without further ado, here they are.
