Riding in Aaron's Memory 606 Riders Continue a Meaningful Tradition

Riding in Aaron's Memory

606 Riders Continue a Meaningful Tradition

Gideon Thompson

The Ashland Beacon

Cruising around our Tri-State area by motorcycle is a life-changing experience as the wind and scenery blend together as if they were almost one. Open air, unrestrained movement, and closeness to the passing landscape are just a few of the unforgettable components of riding a bike. While traveling by car or other vehicles still provides passengers and drivers with beautiful sightseeing opportunities, the intimate experiences that come with traveling on two wheels are unrivaled. Making turns while the trees rush past and feeling the raw power beneath you brings the road—and the world connected to it—even closer. Hearing the sounds of traffic and local life bustling in every direction adds a reminder of how we are all connected. What better way is there to see the world than from the free and ever-changing view of an iron horse?

Taking a trip alone may be fun, but traveling in a group can be a great experience as well. Riding motorcycles with friends and like-minded people is not only enjoyable but also safer, allowing everyone to share the journey together. New friendships and lasting memories are often made through events like rides and rallies, where motorcyclists come together for a worthy cause. Many of us are familiar with motorcycle-focused gatherings, whether we grew up attending them or simply passed them on the highway while traveling. Those long lines of riders may be out there not just enjoying the open road, but also uniting people and raising money for honorable charities.

One such ride will take place on Sunday, July 26, beginning at 11:00 a.m. at the Musketeer Alumni Complex, located at 45 County Road 1020-FF in Greenup County, Kentucky.

The 606 Riders will host the 4th Annual James Aaron Roe Memorial Ride as they honor a friend and family member by bringing riders together to celebrate Aaron's life while raising money for local educational charities. Funds raised during the event will be distributed among local educational charities based on the total amount collected.

The ride was started by close friend Justin VanSickle and Aaron's father, James "Jimmy" Roe, captain and chaplain of the 606 Riders, to honor Aaron by sharing their love of motorcycles with the local community. The club currently has 16 members who have worked diligently to prepare for this year's event by advertising and scheduling vendors, musicians, and an auction.

Koi Hibachi, Dirty Drink Dude, and Small Town Sips will be onsite to fuel the fun. Additional vendors are welcome, and vendor setup is free for those interested. Entertainment from Trigger Soul, Steve Perry, Charlie Woods, and Justin VanSickle will set the stage for a rockin' good time as participants share stories and memories while honoring Aaron. Live music will take place from 2:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., immediately following the auction at 2:00 p.m.

Riders, start your engines! Registration for the 4th Annual James Aaron Roe Memorial Ride will begin at 11:00 a.m., and kickstands will go up at 12:00 p.m. as riders head out on the cruise. The ride will begin by exiting right onto US-23 North from Greenup County High School before continuing to KY-1043, where riders will turn left. The route will continue along KY-1043 to the cemetery before returning to US-23 North and then traveling to KY-8 into Garrison. From there, riders will continue to Collins Country Market before turning onto Kinney Road. Kinney Road will be followed to the KY-AA Highway before riders return to US-23 and continue back to Greenup County High School at the Musketeer Alumni Complex.

The ride will last approximately one hour and cover about 48 miles from start to finish. Participants are encouraged to check the weather forecast and dress appropriately, as they will be exposed to the elements throughout the ride.

Justin VanSickle lovingly shared, "I would describe Aaron as the most intimidating teddy bear you've ever met, lol... He was a mountain of a man who looked somewhat unapproachable, with the stereotypical heavy metal rocker vibe, but he was an absolutely cherished soul who loved the Lord and would give you the shirt off his back."

Anyone looking to join the fun in honor of Aaron is welcome to attend the event on Sunday, July 26. Admission is free, and all donations will be collected during the event by members of the 606 Riders. For more information, guests are encouraged to visit the 606 Riders Facebook page at facebook.com/southshore606riders.

Let's get rolling with the 606 Riders!