Southport Magazine

What: 9/11 Memorial Bike Run
When: Saturday, September 21st
Registration, 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Where: First Baptist Church
45 E. Boiling Spring Rd., Boiling Spring Lakes
Cost: $20 per driver, $10 per passenger
Info: (910) 367-9015

“I think this event directly connects everyone in the area,” Michelle Hennessey, the new chairperson of the Boiling Spring Lakes special events committee, explains. “We are all connected somehow to the 9/11 happenings in one way or another. Whether we knew anyone involved in the attack, or we have friends or family that put themselves in danger every day to protect and help the rest of us.”

While planning is still underway for this year’s 9/11 Memorial Bike Run in Boiling Spring Lakes, in the past anywhere from 50 to 100 motorcyclists have donned their leather gear to honor the victims of 9/11 from almost 12 years ago. Despite the distance, Hennessey says the tragedy of that day and the lives lost still directly impact and connect the people in and around Boiling Spring Lakes.

Those who put their lives on the line that day—the first responders, firemen and policemen—are who the bikers will ride in honor of on Saturday, September 21st, but funds raised will benefit the Boiling Spring Lakes Police Department and Fire Rescue.

As the new chair, Hennessey has a great deal of planning ahead with the rest of the committee that’s responsible for several community functions throughout the year.

Aside from the 9/11 Memorial Bike Run, the special events committee sponsors five other events annually, including the Spring Bike Run in April, Community Fun Day in May, Battle of the Bands in June, and the Mayors Cup Golf Tournament as well as the Haunted Hay Ride/Fall Festival in October.

Hennessey notes that while her appointment does not come with any changes or new additions to the 9/11 Memorial Bike Run, she hopes to keep the community briefed throughout the planning process.

“We have not made any changes as of yet, but my committee has made some excellent suggestions on how we can make the events better and we are considering and open to any suggestions,” she shares. “After all, the events are for the citizens and the public.”

At last year’s event, riders recited the Pledge of Allegiance and enjoyed listening to a recording of “The Star-Spangled Banner” before taking off toward Shallotte.

Brunswick County District Court judge Marion Warren was the guest speaker to honor the heroes of the 9/11 attacks at last year’s ride, and though Hennessey says this year’s speaker has yet to be chosen, they hope to find someone who can contribute real insight into the 9/11 attacks.

“We are open to any suggestions if you know of anyone that might be interested,” she adds.

In addition to the Memorial Bike Run, door prizes, raffles and other activities are still being planning for September 21st, beginning at 9:30 a.m.  with registration. Starting at the First Baptist Church (45 E. Boiling Spring Rd.), admission or “riding” fees are $20 per driver and $10 per passenger.

For updates and details, visit the Boiling Springs Lake Special Events Facebook page.