‘Ride Like an Animal’ Motorcycle Ride and Car Show Slated for Sept. 8

SPRINGFIELD — The Foundation for TJO Animals will host the 10th annual “Ride Like an Animal” Motorcycle Ride and Car Show to benefit homeless animals in shelter at the Thomas J. O’’Connor Animal Control & Adoption Center. All proceeds from this event will provide much-needed medical care and training to the many animals that call TJO their temporary home.

The event takes place on Saturday, Sept. 8 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Registration opens at 9 a.m. at the Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control & Adoption Center, 627 Cottage St., Springfield. Kickstands go up at 10:45 a.m.., and the ride leaves at 11 a.m. for a scenic trek through Western Mass., ending at the Ludlow Elks, 69 Chapin St., Ludlow.

Pat Kelly from Lazer 99.3 will kick off the pre-registration festivities with special guest Jonathan Hall and Toto the Tornado Kitten. After the ride, the party continues afterwards at the Ludlow Elks with live music from the band Tough Customer, a barbecue (vegetarian food available), raffles, and some TJO alumni.

Registration includes admission to the after party and lunch from noon to 3 p.m. Registration for motorcycle riders is $25 per adult rider and free for children under 7. For those individuals who would like to attend just the after party, post-ride party tickets are available for $15 per person.

Car enthusiasts are invited to come out and show off their wheels. Trophies will be awarded for the top three people’s choice. Show car registration is $15 per passenger, and cars are encouraged to arrive between 11:30 a.m. and noon.

Event sponsors include Chicopee Savings Charitable Foundation, Colonial Tire and Brake Center, Florence Bank, and Harley-Davidson of Southampton.