By Ron Cox

Co-sponsored by the Southwest Coast Division of The March of Dimes (MoD) and Harley-Davidson of Ft. Myers, the 13th Annual Bikers for Babies (BFB) set new records for registered riders and money raised. The three day event took place November 15th-17th and more than 2,000 people registered (the most ever) and the MoD received $161,154, most money ever raised.

What started out as a one day event several years ago has mushroomed into a three day event with lots of happenings. Friday night kicked off with the opportunity to pre-register while vendors plied their wares and Unforgiven & Riverside entertained the riders. Saturday afternoon presented another chance to pre-register and check out the car show. Sunday morning registration took place at Collier County Regional Water Park in Naples. Collier and Lee County Sheriff’s Departments did a stellar job in safely moving the double column of motorcycles over the 35 mile course.

Arriving at HDFM, the riders were treated to a pulled pork meal with beans, salad and soft drinks. Backlash entertained all afternoon. After the event was closed, adult beverages became available.

Awards came next with the Lost Riders MC winning most money raised by a club with $14,221, followed by the Ronin Riding Club with $12,791 and SWFL HOG with $8,757. Mary & Steve Robison won the individual(s) raising the most money with $3,677.

The March of Dimes is a national voluntary health agency whose mission is to improve the health of babies through its Prematurity Campaign, and by preventing birth defects and infant mortality. Research funds will be used to find out why 1 in 8 babies are born prematurely in the United States. Founded in 1938, the March of Dimes funds programs of research, community services, education and advocacy to save babies.