It started with just a few motorcycles. Fifteen years, and $3.5 million dollars later, the Dream Ride, is helping Special Olympians around the world reach their goals.
“If people give the athletes the chance to know them you’re going to find out they have so much more to offer,” said Dream Ride founder Mike Bozzuto.
Sunday, thousands of motorcycles and hundreds of exotic and classic cars filled the grounds of the Farmington Polo Club.
Riders took off from Florida on Aug. 15, joined by other bikers along the east coast. They also took off from 29 satellite locations across Connecticut on Sunday. Their entry fees go toward the Special Olympics in the state they represent.
Over the last 15 years, this event has grown to be the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Special Olympics of Connecticut. Last year alone they raised more than $1 million.
Bobby Osborne couldn’t stop smiling as the motorcycles left the pavilion. He snapped at least a dozen pictures as they rolled past.
“I love Harleys. I really do,” Osborne said.
“I love the bikes and stuff and I like to see all the people come here for us,” added fellow athlete Sean Delgreco.
The bikers took a 25-mile ride through Connecticut.
A collection of exotic cars, worth $200-million and two tents full of classic cars, drew spectators from 15 states and five countries. Many of the car owners come back year after year.
“You can’t beat the athletes. The kids are special. If you see some of these kids and the enthusiasm and excitement that they have for being around the cars and being driven around in these cars, it’s second to nothing,” said Andrew Baldassarre, of Bloomfield, who brought a Ferrari that’s been in his family for thirty-five years.
The Waterbury Masonic Lodge has been volunteering for clean-up duty for three years. Don Synnett said he can’t believe how much it’s grown.
“The main tent is double the size it was last year,” said Synnett.
Sunday was an unforgettable day for the athletes and those helping make their dreams come true
“I really appreciate everybody for coming here, too,” Osborne said.
Photo Credit: NBCConnecticut.com
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