CHAD SENKBEIL

WHEELING — An annual motorcycle ride promoting motorcycle safety — and remembering the life of a rider who was killed on the road — takes place Saturday.

The seventh annual “Chad’s Ride” honors the life of Chad Senkbeil, who died in a motorcycle accident on July 27, 2018. Riders are to meet up at Denny’s Blue Angel in Bellaire at 11 a.m., with “kickstands up” at noon.

Participants will depart from the Blue Angel, and go to the Barton Trap in St. Clairsville. From there, they will proceed to Southpaw Eatz in Short Creek, then complete the ride at the Wild West Sports Bar in Wheeling.

The memorial ride serves as a tribute to Senkbeil, described as a “devoted father, husband, brother and son” by his stepmother Ann Senkbeil. In addition, the ride is an effort to promote motorcycle awareness in the community.

“His spirit lives on through his family and the annual ride that bears his name,” she said. “This event is not only to commemorate his life, but also to bring attention to the importance of motorcycle safety and awareness and to encourage drivers to be more vigilant – reducing the number of senseless accidents that claim the lives of riders.

“The goal is to ensure that Chad’s legacy helps save others from similar tragedies. While the ride is designed for motorcyclists, all are welcome to participate, whether you ride a motorcycle or drive a four-wheeled vehicle.”

There is no registration fee to join the event, and all are encouraged to participate.

During the ride, there will be raffles held to raise funds for the “Look Twice, Save a Life” campaign, which seeks to promote safer roads for all.

The campaign’s focus is on reducing motorcycle accidents by reminding all drivers to be more aware of motorcyclists on the road.

“We want to make sure that Chad’s memory lives on, and through this ride, we hope to make the roads safer for motorcyclists everywhere,” Senkbeil said. “This event is not only a way to honor Chad but also to bring awareness to an issue that affects many families. We encourage everyone to join us and help spread the word.”

Should weather conditions interfere with the event, updates will be posted on the Chad’s Ride for Motorcycle Awareness Facebook page. Participants are encouraged to check the page for real-time information.