60,000 Bikers Take Part in 2009 Big Texas Toy Run.

 

FORT WORTH, TEXAS - Chloe Coleman was expecting a large crowd of motorcycles for Big Texas Toy Run.

But, she wasn't expecting 60,000 from two counties and numerous states.

"It's awesome -- look at how many people are here," the 21-year-old said. "It's amazing how many people come out do this every year. This is what Christmas is all about."

She wasn't the only with a smiling face on Sunday.

Thousands of motorcyclists decked out their bikes with Christmas lights, singing toys or good o'l fashion tinsel as they celebrated the week before the holidays. Numerous people dressed up costumes to get into the holiday spirit, including Santa and his nine reindeer.

Since 1985, the Big Texas Toy Run has been raising money and toys for underprivileged children in both Dallas and Tarrant counties. This year, the event raised more than $48,000 and more than 500,000 presents from Mental Health Mental Retardation of Tarrant County and Metrocare of Dallas.

"Helping the kids that's what it's about," Tod McEvoy, an organizer, said. "We do what we can, when we can, however we can to make sure those that don't, can."

Dozens of onlookers lined the side of freeways and watched from overpasses as the bikers made their way to the Arlington Convention Center from Dallas and Fort Worth.

Once there, the bikers handed off toys and watched 30 children receive presents early. The children got everything from iPods and PlayStations to Barbies and Transformers.

Jimmy Gonzalez' two kids -- Dakota and Diamond -- received gifts on Sunday.

He watched from the side of the stage as his daughter Dakota's face light up with a smile. He said he was amazed by the generosity of so many.

"You never realize that there is a lot of people with big hearts," he said. "It's not about the gifts. It's about the spirit of Christmas."

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