Record turnout possible for CASA benefit ride

Topeka Capital-Journal, The, Apr 26, 2007 by Barbara Hollingsworth

By Barbara Hollingsworth

THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

For the 11th time, motorcycle riders on Saturday will rev their engines for Shawnee County children.

The annual ride benefiting CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Shawnee County will take off from Topeka Harley Davidson, S.W. 21st Street and Topeka Boulevard, at noon Saturday bound for an 80-mile trek into the Flint Hills.

"There's just something about riding with 100 bikes," said Jim Caplinger Jr., a CASA advisory board member. "It's unique."

The ride raises money for CASA, a program that trains volunteers to become advocates and connects them with children in the court system.

"It benefits children who are abused and neglected in Shawnee County," said Joanna Penn, resource development director for CASA of Shawnee County.

With good weather forecast for Saturday, organizers are hoping for a record turnout. The first ride kicked off with just six riders and raised about $1,200, Caplinger said. But it has grown, attracting as many as 180 riders and raising about $20,000 in recent years.

The course for this year's ride has changed and will be a nonstop 80-mile ride. Bikers are asked to donate or collect $25 in pledges, and passengers are asked for $15. Free T-shirts will be given to those who raise at least $50.

Bikers can register from 10:30 a.m. to noon Saturday at Topeka Harley Davidson. An after-party with prizes will kick off at 2:30 p.m. at the Blind Tiger Brewery & Restaurant, 417 S.W. 37th.

"It's a lot of fun, but it's for a good cause, too," said Caplinger, who has been on every ride.

For more information, contact Penn at 215-8281 or joanna.penn@shawneecocasa.org.

Barbara Hollingsworth can be reached at (785) 295-1285 or barbara.hollingsworth@cjonline.com.