"Premature birth is a bigger problem than most people think. By riding in this event, you will support March of Dimes efforts to raise awareness of the problem and support research to save babies right here in our community and across the nation. Premature birth affects more than 460,000 babies in the U.S. every year and the rates are rising. It is the leading cause of death in the first month of life.

All interested riders can sign up by contacting the local March of Dimes chapter at 860 Greenbrier Circle – Chesapeake, VA 23320 – 757-361-0000. The registration fee is: $25.00 which includes: Official Ride Pin, T-shirt and Lunch. Guest $15.00 will include Lunch and Pin. All motorcycles welcome, rain or shine!

Before participating in the event, riders collect contributions from family, friends and other motorcycle enthusiasts to help the March of Dimes fund vital research and programs to find the causes of prematurity. Then, they ride the open road, covering 80 miles of highways and byways. This ride will follow a police escorted Ride to Outer Banks Harley-Davidson/Buell Elizabeth City, NC and back to the Chesapeake City Park for a picnic, games, entertainment, vendors, door prizes and awards.

If you're interested in participating but can't ride, contact the March of Dimes (757-361-0000) and ask about the many volunteer opportunities available. There are also Sponsorship and Vendor Opportunities available.

The March of Dimes is a national voluntary health agency whose mission is to improve the health of babies through its Prematurity Campaign and by preventing birth defects and infant mortality. Founded in 1938, the March of Dimes funds programs of research, community services education and advocacy to save babies. For more information, visit the March of Dimes Web site at marchofdimes.com, or its Spanish Web site at nacersano.org or call 1-888-MODIMES.