History
Who would have ever thought that a small town like Port Alberni could hold such a large event as the Toy Run has become.
Many years have passed and we would like to thank past Toy Run members, all merchants who donated to the cause and most of all, to all the riders who came out rain or shine or snow to participate and made it the success it has become (for if not for them the Toy Run would not have come into existence in the valley).
In the pages to follow, you can scroll back through time from the present to the very first Toy Run of Port Alberni.
It all began when a few people got together one day and decided that if other motorcyclists can make kids happy, why don't we do the same. So, with the help of some of our local merchants and the support from the Junior Chamber of Commerce (Jaycees) and the Salvation Army, it all came together to become the amazing annual event it is now.
We had good weather, with 1,100 bikes and many vendors showing up to a very successful weekend. It is worth noting that the Port Alberni Toy Run is now the largest Toy Run event in British Columbia.
The weather was warm and sunny, just right for a good Toy Run.
While the weather was not fully cooperating with everyone, 500 riders still came out to support the kids and still have a good weekend.
While the weather may have been a bit showery, it was still a good weekend.
2014 was one of the biggest years in the history of the Port Alberni Toy Run. There were 1400 riders participating to make for a very successful weekend.
The 3rd weekend of September 2006, Santa Claus (aka Gerard Janssen) led a growing pack of bikes from Little Qualicum Falls through Port Alberni and ending at Glenwood Center. Approximately 805 bikes rode through town carrying toys (approx. $20,000.00 worth) for the children of Port Alberni to have at Christmas time. Early risers took part in a pancake breakfast at the Crown and Anchor before heading to Little Qualicum Falls. The bikers met at the park for registration, refreshments and an array of goodies. Leading Santa on the run was the Golden Oldies Car Club, who later was led by the RCMP through town. Once the riders reached Glenwood Center there was children’s activities for all, bike games for the daring and a beer gardens for the thirsty adults. Gallons of chili and hot dogs awaited their arrival. The children’s activities (all free for the kids) included guessing the bean count, bounce arounds, clowns, face painting, fish pond, bean bag toss, cotton candy, popcorn, and refreshments. The adult bike games included such games as the plank ride, potato in the haystack, wienie bite, obstacle race, and the barrel race to name a few. In the evening there was a dance of non stop music by Chevy Ray and the Fins, and the Maloomba Boogie Bands. Also included in the dance was a pig roast for those who were hungry. Sunday morning started off with a pancake breakfast, followed by a poker run. A nice refreshing ride through town and out to Taylor Flats and ending back at the Arlington Pub. The poker hand winners were announced plus many draws of other prizes accompanied with live music by Island Express.
This 2 day event raised approximately $49,000.00. All monies raised stay within the regional district, and are donated back to various children’s groups, activities, and health therapy. A Very Big THANK YOU to all who support the Port Alberni Toy Run, including the Bikers, the Businesses of Port Alberni, the Spectators, the many Volunteers all who help make this special event happen.
| Attachment | Size |
|---|---|
 Report by The Busted Knuckle Chronicles | 236.09 KB |