By OLIVER GOOD

Staff writer

Though it wasn’t the biggest Toy Run in Marion County’s history, 76 motorcycle riders and nine classic cars filled with passengers braved the cold temperature of the open road Saturday to amass over 150 toys for underprivileged children.

One organizer, Mike Sechler, said that in his 21 years helping the event, 120 riders was the largest Toy Run Marion County has ever seen.

“It’s for a good cause,” Sechler said. “Everyone brought a toy or two.”

Santa Claus also made an early appearance, riding the distance between Marion and Hillsboro on US-56 in the back of a pickup that pulled a trailer with 26 bicycles and two tricycles.

This year the event also raised $1,600 for needy families with debts beyond their means to pay.

Money was raised at a chili feed and auction after the ride at American Legion Post 366. It will be distributed to area ministerial organizations, Families and Communities Together, and Marion County’s Big Brothers Big Sisters before it is passed along to needy families.

Toys were collected at Hillsboro State Bank and will stay in-county for distribution at Christmas.

The event was sponsored by Sons of American Legion 366, ABATE of Kansas District 9, and Route 56 Classic Cruisers.

Donations may still be sent to the Marion County Toy Run, care of Hillsboro SAL 366, 405 S. Floral Dr. Hillsboro KS 67063, or contact one of the sponsoring organizations.