MORE than 800 motorcycle riders are expected to join the annual MassKara & 58th Visayas Unity Ride Saturday, October 12, which kicks off at the Market Place, New Government Center, Bacolod City.

“We have already closed our registration period, with 809 registered biker delegates coming from all over the country, but mostly from the Visayas,” said Lito Aves, Event Chairman.

Hosted by the Thunderbugs Bacolod Motorcycle Club, one of the oldest motorcycle clubs in the country founded in 1964, the unity ride is the club’s contribution to the world-famous MassKara Festival of the City of Smiles.

Last year, 777 riders participated in the activity.

Walk-in registrants will be accommodated from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., after which the bikers will ride to Bago City.

Bago City Mayor Nicholas M. Yulo will welcome the group to his city and will tender a lunch for all the delegates.

At 2 p.m., the riders will head back to The Market Place at the New Government Center for the viewing of display of motorcycles, riding accessories and equipment.

In the evening, Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia will deliver a welcome message to the bikers during the dinner and fellowship party with live band performers.

Manolet Lamata is the Thunderbugs’ current chairman, with Felipe Garcia as its vice-chairman. The club’s president is PJ Ginete, while the three vice-presidents are Mike Trebol, Steve Martir, and Ed Baylon. Emick Martir is the group’s treasurer. (PR)