Ghoulish bikers ride for cancer

by Sean Ruppert, Staff Writer
   It is hard to imagine that a biker gang of ghouls, goblins, monsters and ghosts would have good intentions, but this one is certainly an exception.
   For the fourth straight year, the Skull Riders will tour the streets of South Brunswick on Halloween. The group has two goals: To bring a fun fright to young trick-or-treaters and raise money for a local teen stricken with cancer.
   Last Halloween, the event gathered a parade of more than 80 motorcyclists, all decked out in their scariest duds, to roll through town and pass out candy to kids as they passed. This year Tom Dardani, one of the event’s organizers, said he hopes to attract more than 200 riders for this year’s parade.
   ”What we have done is created a run that is intended for the spectators as well as the participants,” Mr. Dardani said. “This is the fourth year that we have done it. The ride started off small, but when we started seeing the reaction of the kids, it really blossomed.”
   The riders rumble through the streets complete with a police escort.
   All riders who wish to enter the parade must pay a $20 registration fee, and an additional $10 if they are carrying a passenger. Participants will receive a T-shirt and a bag of candy, while supplies last.
   Proceeds will be donated to the family of a local South Brunswick High School student who is battling cancer. The group is also reaching out to local businesses as sponsors.
   ”Our primary concern was to keep the money in town,” Mr. Dardani said. “We didn’t want to give the money to some big organization, we would rather help someone right here in town.”
   The ride will begin at Woodlot Park on New Road at 5:30 p.m., and snake its way through the area, then make its way to Banditos restaurant on Route 1. At Banditos, there will be a raffle for riders, as well as various prizes given out for best costume and several other categories.
   ”We promise a good time,” Mr. Dardani said.
   Those interested in participating can find registration forms at Major Car Wash on Route 1, Wawa at Five Corners, Trenton World Class Harley and Harley-Davidson & Buell of Edison. They can also contact Mr. Wert at 732-329-6427.