By Al Muskewitz

After breaking more records again this year, Tim Chellette is looking to cross two big milestones next year with his Big G Motorcycle Ride for St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

With an assist from the Tennessee Trucking Association, Chellette, a decorated driver for Shelbyville-based Big G Express, drew 187 bikes and raised $32,250 for St. Jude’s from his annual motorcycle ride through scenic middle Tennessee.

He expects next year’s seventh annual ride, already scheduled for June 4, to draw more than 200 bikes and take its all-time contribution over $100,000.

Partnering with Tennessee Trucking Foundation, the charity arm of the Tennessee Trucking Association, provided a big boost for the ride’s exposure. Their officials were excited about coming aboard and were impressed when they saw the ride in action.

“They helped me out quite a bit,” Chellette said. “They were with me for the auction and all that and were like wow, this is just unbelievable. They’re definitely looking forward to next year.”

Although he anticipated a big draw, Chellette admitted he was a little worried early in the day.

“We were at about 125 bikes and I’m like they’re just not coming, surely they’re going to be coming around the corner,” he said. “Just about the time I got the words out of my mouth, 48 bikes come in there. I was just beside myself.

“I tell people it’s just amazing how much people care and are willing to give for children like that. That’s what keeps me going and keeps me excited for next year, when I see the outpouring of people coming in and willing to do that. Now I’m thinking what can I do to make it bigger and better for the children. At the end of the day, that’s what it’s all about.”

Al Muskewitz is Editor at Wright Media.