Toys In The Sun Run Roars Down I-95

FT. LAUDERDALE (CBS4) – Thousands of bikers toting presents for some very special kids hit the road Sunday morning for the annual 24th Annual Christmas Toys in the Sun Run.

The run kicked off at 9 a.m. from the Mardi Gras Casino in Hallandale Beach.  From there it proceeded up I-95 to I-595 where it headed west to Markham Park in Sunrise.  Portions of I-95 and I-595 were closed to vehicle traffic during the run to give the bikers a safe route.  An estimated 30,000 motorcyclists were expected to take part in the run, according to organizers.

Some spectators who lined I-595 in a construction zone to watch the bikers go by were not pleased when they were told to move along by the Florida Highway Patrol.  But the troopers were just doing their job.  FHP spokesman Sgt. Mark Wysocky said being in the construction zone was trespassing and they were asked to move to a nearby by "green way" if they wished to stay.

At Markham Park, the bikers were greeted with live music, a huge motorcycle show, over 100 vendors, an international food court, cold beer, and soft drinks.   There was also an open car and truck show which was dubbed  South Florida's "Most Unique Winter Car Show". The event cost $10 and one unwrapped toy per person.

Proceeds from the event will go to the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital in Hollywood and James Jr. Fund, Inc. Donated toys are distributed to needy children in South Florida.