In 1982, members of Bikers Who Care held the first Leslie W. Watson Memorial Toy Run as a way to show respect for Watson’s memory and the kindness he showed others. The idea was that all participants would buy a toy and donate it to the Clarksville Fire Department for their Christmas toy drive.
After the Toy Run, those riders held a party. They soon realized that if they made the party a part of the Toy Run, they could raise money that could be donated to a worthy cause, just as “Les” would have done.
Bikers Who Care, an organization of motorcycle enthusiasts dedicated to supporting the Dream Factory by fully sponsoring Camp Rainbow – a summer camp for seriously ill children – is committed to continuing the Toy Run, over 40 years later.
This year’s Toy Run and Party
The 43rd annual Leslie W. Watson Memorial Toy Run and Benefit Party will be Sept. 13-15 at the Clarksville Speedway and Fairgrounds.
The Toy Run itself will be Saturday, Sept. 14, with lineup at 11 a.m. at Governor’s Square Mall; this is a change from previous years. Admission for the Toy Run is one toy or cash donation per person. The ride will end at the Speedway, where toys will be dropped off with YAIPak Outreach from 2-4 p.m.
The party will be all weekend, and with all makes of motorcycles welcome. The headlining band on Friday will be Kid Kentucky, and on Saturday it will be Shallow Side. In addition to the live music, attendees can enjoy pit bike races, drag races, field events, a bike show and stage contests. There will also be food and merchandise vendors all weekend.
Tickets and more
Tickets are $35 online in advance for all three days. Tickets at the gate will be $40. Camping for motorcycles is free. It’s $25 per RV or camper, or $10 per car or truck. For tickets and more information, go to bikerswhocare.ticketleap.com/bwctoyrun24. Tickets are also available at Poorman’s Country Club, Appleton Harley-Davidson or from any BWC member.
A few rules for the weekend: No golf carts and no ATVs. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times. Leave your pets and attitudes at home. Gates open Friday at noon.
The event is sponsored by Tri Star Beverage and Appleton Harley-Davidson Buell.
