After the ride, motorcyclists returned to the Mission for lunch and enjoyed live music by various performers. Closing ceremonies began at 3 p.m. with City Union Mission Executive Director Dan Doty welcoming the participants. Following the National Anthem and Pledge of Allegiance, Dan introduced the ride coordinator, Col. Teddy Bittner of Cycle Disciples M/C, who recognized the ride sponsors.

This year, Gooch’s Garlic Run will take place on June 17. The ride starts with registration at the Rockaway Townsquare Mall in Rockaway, NJ. By around 7 p.m., the bikes head out to Interstate 80 for the cruise into New York City. The run is organized by the Blue Knights of New Jersey, Chapter IX and was begun by Al “Gooch” Monaco, a retired Andover, NJ police lieutenant. All proceeds go to benefit children with catastrophic illness.

Officer Bremer, a 5-year veteran of the Frederick City Police Department, was killed on October 23, 2008, in a tragic accident while in pursuit of a suspected drunk driver. The man he was chasing was later found by police, arrested, and is currently incarcerated.

Funds raised by Rip’s B.A.D. ride support the American Diabetes Association , America’s leading voluntary health organization assisting diabetes research, advocacy, and education. The mission of A.D.A. is to prevent and cure diabetes and improve the lives of people affected by the disease. Nearly 24 million adults and children in the U.S. (almost 8% of the population) have diabetes, a disease in which the body does not produce or effectively use insulin.