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Leicester Man Leads Motorcycle Ride To Help Diabetes Camp

Leicester's Joe Hamm readies his Vulcan to lead hundreds of motorcyclists in the fourth annual Ride For Barton. Photo Credit: Daniel Castro
Motorcyclists join the Ride For Barton in West Boylston. Photo Credit: Daniel Castro
Riders prepare for the start of the Ride For Barton. Photo Credit: Daniel Castro
Police escorts lead the ride through Central Massachusetts. Photo Credit: Daniel Castro
Bikers set off for the Fourth Annual Ride For Barton. Photo Credit: Daniel Castro
Riders of all kinds of bikes participate in the annual event, which raises money for the Barton Center For Diabetes. Photo Credit: Daniel Castro
A motorcyclist sets off on his custom bike to join hundreds of riders in the Ride For Barton. Photo Credit: Daniel Castro

WEST BOYLSTON, Mass. — Hundreds of motorcycles roared through Central Massachusetts on Sunday morning as part of the fourth annual Ride For Barton, a growing effort started by Leicester resident Joe Hamm to support diabetes programs at Camp Joslin.

Riders on custom bobbers, choppers, Harleys and sports bikes joined the police-escorted run that took them through the scenic roads of West Boylston, Holden, Leicester and finally into Charlton for a celebration and Classic Car Meet at Camp Joslin.

Nearly 200 people registered for the ride — which Hamm said was more than previous years.

Proceeds from the registration fees will add to the $5,400 already raised from sponsors and will go entirely toward helping children to attend camp at the Barton Center.

Nearly 2,000 children and families participate in the Barton Center for Diabetes Education's year-round programs, and Camp Joslin provides boys and young men with camping, fun, diabetes education, support and recreation.

After being diagnosed with diabetes at the age of 11, Hamm's son Jay not only benefited from his time at the camp but also continues to give back as a counselor.

Together, the Hamms have made it their goal to raise awareness about diabetes and support the Barton Center, an effort that has drawn support from area sponsors and motorcycle riders.

To learn more about the Barton Center and Camp Joslin, visit bartoncenter.org.

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