Hogs 4 Hokies 2009 Ride to Virginia Tech

Well over 100 motorcyclists rode in the annual event raising over 10,000 dollars for scholarships at VT. The scholarship fund is called the 32 Named Endowment Fund and provides scholarships to VT students in the names of the 32 fallen victims of April 16th, 2007. This years ride was from Manassas VA to Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia.

The day started in Manassas with the first group of riders forming up in the mall parking lot with registration at Hooters across the street. Although there were many Harleys, there was an assortment of Goldwings and sport bikes as well.

From Manassas, we proceeded to Charlottesville to add more riders. We were also joined by a police motorcycle escort, with four exceptional officers who escorted us to the next stop. We rode a staggered parade formation to Staunton VA and stopped at the Shenandoah Harley-Davidson where the dealership provided lunch and some fun shopping in the Harley store. A part of each purchase could be designated to the Endowment Fund. We took the opportunity to spend some money for a good cause.

The parade was led by the four motorcycle police and Frank Salzano, VT graduate 1983. Frank had customized his Harley with the maroon and orange colors of VT and sports a large VT flag on the rear of his motorcycle. Each rider was blessed by Deacon Mike Ellerbrock as we rode by him and proceeded to the VT memorial for the fallen students. A ceremony was held and a check presented for the Endowment Fund totaling well over $10,000.

A quote from Frank’s website says it all. Lets remember always the 32 lost, 17 injured, and countless other innocent victims affected forever.

This is an annual ride and anyone can participate. You can find out more about this event at the website listed at the end of this article.