This past Sunday, November 6, more than 2,777 bikers traveled from Lawrence-Dumont Stadium to Kansas Coliseum as part of the 32nd Annual Wichita Toy Run.

The run has grown more and more each year since its origin in 1980, starting out with just 30 riders to the present day count up to almost 3,000. Thousands of toys are gathered and other holiday items for the Salvation Army, Toys for Tots, and Kansas Food Banks each year during the ride.

Unfortunately this year there were two motorcycle accident during the event. The first accident occured at 25th and Broadway when a motorcyclist lost control of his bike. He and his female passenger fell off the bike and were taken to Via Christi Hospital. The two suffered from serious injuries. The second accident happend in the 6900 block of North Broadway and involved a bike and a rider says the 911 dispatcher. Both involved in this accident received minor injuries. Holly Potelle, the director of the event, involved since the very first run in 1980, said "it has been a long time since we had an accident, since we even had problems. You just never know with this many motorcycles,"

(Thousands of toys, delivered on two wheels, Beccy Tanner, The Wichita Eagle,

http://www.kansas.com/2011/11/07/2092798/thousands-of-toys-delivered-two.html).

Despite the two accidents, it was a successful and uplifting parade. There were so many toys donated this year that it took four 26-foot long trucks to haul everything. The exact amount of money raised this year has yet to be calculated, but last year the total raised was over $13,000.

Those involved in organizing the run really keep the giving spirit alive and it shows, as "the organization is all volunteer-no money is paid for salaries. Donations go to those in need," said Potelle. Both Dan and Dorothy Haines have been volunteering since 1996 and love being involved every year. They both play key roles in the parade as Santa and Mrs. Claus. Dan states that "this is about the most fun a person can have on a motorcycle. You are collecting toys, making kids happy, and donating to several different charities," (Thousands of toys, delivered on two wheels, Beccy Tanner, The Wichita Eagle).

Minus the two accidents, the run was definitely a success. If you haven't been be sure to mark it on your calendar next year as it is a great ride, but also a greay way to give back.