Santa’s Helpers Memorial Toy Run Well Received

The 18th annual Santa's Helpers Memorial Toy Run took place with beautiful weather Sunday afternoon.

The event started at the Cole Camp Fire Station and proceeded to Yeager's Cycle Sales in Sedalia, escorted by Sedalia Police.

From there it traveled north on Limit to Broadway, ending at the Sedalia Salvation Army, 1200 East Broadway, where Service Center Director Magen Hudson and her crew were awaiting their arrival with snacks and refreshments. Hudson said she was impressed with the number of cyclists who showed up to present new toys and money that Santa's Helpers brought and delivered to the Salvation Army to help local children in need.

Several area motorcycle groups came together to comprise Santa's Helpers, including the Harley Owners Group, Christian Motorcycles, Midwest Drifters, Freedom of the Road Riders and American Legion Riders, according to Mike Davis, founding member of the event.

Davis, dressed as Santa, and Shelly, dressed as Mrs. Claus, led the 111 motorcycles to the Salvation Army.

Although 111 cycles is not a record, because one year saw 150 riders, Davis was pleased with the participation.

“Absolutely, we had a beautiful day for it. It just doesn't get any better than this for riding,” Davis said. In addition to the motorcycle groups, several of the riders were friends of Davis. “We had a great turnout this year, and we collected almost $1200 in cash. They can really do a lot with that money,” he noted. “And we got a pile of toys.

Hudson said it was really neat to hear the roar of the motorcycles coming down Broadway and to see her parking lot fill up with motorcycles with riders bearing gifts for children for Christmas.

Becca Clay, divisional service extension director from Salvation Army St. Louis, was in Sedalia to witness the arrival of Santa's Helpers.

“I just wanted to come visit with Magen and check out the event today and see the great things that are happening,” Clay said.