Bikers ready to roll for Easter Egg Run

Bikers from all over Co. Antrim and further afield will be revved up and ready to roll for what has become the '˜first run' event of the year.

The annual ‘Easter Egg Run’, organised by Ballymena Rider Training takes place on Sunday, April 9 leaving at 1.30pm sharp from outside Ballymena Honda in the town’s Pennybridge Industrial estate

This is the 24th anniversary of the ride out which attracts hundreds of bikers on all shapes and sizes of machines.

The scenic tour takes the armada past Slemish and through the Glens down into Carnlough where there will be a short stop. After a ride along the coast road, the run will return to Ballymena Showgrounds where refreshments will be provided for participants.

Cost is a minimum of £5 per bike plus an Easter egg if possible. Further Information can be found on Facebook & Twitter (The Annual NI Easter Egg Run) or by contacting co-organisers Gary Olphert – 07710 733292 or Walter Millar – 07507 639699. Organised by Ballymena Rider Training & David McGuckin – 028 2564 3497

The Easter eggs will all be donated to local children’s charities and all other proceeds go to Marie Curie Cancer Care

Over the past 24 years the Egg Run has raised thousands of pounds for charity and many of its participants having been turning up since the first run in the early 90s.

Ballymena Rider Training Chief Instructor David McGuckin acknowledges the support from bikers attending the event in the past.

“I’m always amazed at the support we get. Many bikers have the Egg Run marked on their calendars as the first proper run out of the biking season, blowing off those winter cobwebs for a fantastic cause. There is always a great atmosphere and each year people make new friends and associates based on the great comradery on the day.

“It is also learner friendly, something we get asked often, and moves at a sensible pace. I would even encourage those who are not motorcyclists to come along and see the event.”

Marie Curie Cancer Care is a charity that supports patients with terminal cancer and other illnesses and all funds raised will help the charity to continue to do the invaluable work that it does in Northern Ireland

The overwhelming support from the motorcycling fraternity means that in the week following the event organisers will also distribute 100s of Easter Eggs to charities across the borough

“It is important to mention that none of this is possible without the support of local businesses providing a variety of raffle prizes for participants. Without this help and dedicated support the run just simply wouldn’t exist. We have ongoing and valued support of the council (Braid Arts Centre) and these fantastic local businesses that quite frankly are key in making this and many other charity events happen in the first place,” said David.

Organisers invite everyone on two wheels to come along and take part. Whether you have a scooter, sports bike, custom or classic everyone can have a fantastic day out whilst helping to raise some money for charity and those without motorcycles are always welcome to come and view the wonderful array of machines as they set off.

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