Lake Forest Motorcyclists Take Off in Gooch's Garlic Run

A small but enthusiastic group of bikers from Jefferson Township headed to Rockaway Mall to ride in Gooch's Garlic Run, a charity ride that started at the mall and headed to Newark's Ironbound section.

Lake Hopatcong resident Patrick Brennan and his daughter Emma, 11, were the first to arrive at the Lake Forest Yacht Club, the designated meeting spot.

"This is the first time I've done Gooch's to Newark," Brennan said. "I've done it to Manhattan several times in the past."

He was followed by Parsippany resident Diane Bogert. 

"I've lost count of how many times I've done this ride," she said. "I stopped counting after eight or nine."

They were joined by Andy Egan, who was doing his fourth Gooch's Run, and Keith Beaudoin.

June 20 marked the 25^th anniversary of the ride that raises money for local children with life-threatening diseases or illnesses, according to information from ride sponsors The Blue Knights.

Lake Hopatcong resident John Malley came with his bike, but decided not to ride.

"It's really hot out here," he said. "It's a tough ride in the heat, and it will be even hotter in Newark than it is here."