RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — Motorcyclists from across central North Carolina hit the road to support Special Olympics athletes and raise money for programs that provide participants with free training, equipment and travel opportunities.
The charity ride benefited Special Olympics North Carolina, which recently sent athletes to compete in the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis.
Organizers said fundraisers like this help ensure athletes can participate year-round without having to worry about the cost.
For participant Bradford Bannerman, the event combined two passions: riding motorcycles and supporting others.
“The motorcycle is my outlet,” Bannerman said. “When I get the opportunity for a free moment like today, I jump on my motorcycle. That’s my release to enjoy life and be grateful.”
The event was organized by the North Carolina Correctional Institution for Women’s Special Olympics Committee. Committee co-captain Clarence Godley said supporting Special Olympics athletes has become a meaningful annual tradition.
“This is my 10th year of showing support for the Special Olympics — the athletes —,” Godley said.
Godley said volunteers spend all year finding ways to raise money for athletes across North Carolina.
“Throughout the year we develop ideas to raise money for the athletes,” he said.
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Standouts include Wake County athlete Rio Byrd, who won four gold medals in powerlifting.
For many participants, the concern is personal. Event coordinator Rajia Elliss said she has family members with disabilities and wanted to make sure the athletes know there is a community behind them.
“It’s important to be a part of it and give back and show them that people have their back,” Elliss said.
Bannerman said his work with autistic clients over the past 16 years also inspired him to participate.
“I’m really passionate about them,” he said.
Organizers said one of the biggest benefits of fundraising is that athletes are never charged for the resources they need to compete.
“It helps that they don’t incur any costs for travel, training or equipment they need for the various events,” Godley said. “There are no costs for the athletes themselves.”
Beyond financial support, organizers said the event helps raise awareness and encourage the community to get involved in Special Olympics programs.
“It shows them they’re not alone,” Elliss said. “It shows them that we support them.”
Participants said seeing athletes gain confidence, develop friendships and achieve success through sport makes the effort worthwhile.
“It’s a joy to see them smile and laugh,” Bannerman said. “It’s a great satisfaction.”
Godley said the impact of participating in the Special Olympics can be transformative.
“It’s amazing to see the changes that happen when they get involved in the Special Olympics,” he said. “It’s a night and day difference.”
Organizers hope events like the motorcycle ride continue to inspire people across the Triangle to volunteer, donate and support athletes of all abilities.
“Seeing the smiles on their faces and being active with them gives them the encouragement they need,” Elliss said. “This encouragement goes a long way.”
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