Members of the Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club and individual supporters came together on Saturday for a benefit ride to support the construction of Westpoint Park in Drakes Branch.

Charlotte County Recreation Association (CCRA) Director James Gregory said about 50 bikes were in attendance for the event.

Formed in 2014, the Westpoint Park Project is a playground and park area within the Drakes Branch community on West Point Stevens Road. The park is sponsored by the CCRA.

“It’s all private funds,” Gregory said.

He said the CCRA is funded through various fundraisers and youth basketball games throughout the season.

The event kicked off at the Drakes Branch Pavilion and riders proceeded to Charlotte Court House, according to Buffalo Soldier Derrion Snead. He said the bikers then continued on to Phenix, heading towards Red House to cut through Harvey Road and circle back into Charlotte Court House. The riders would end the stretch by proceeding to the town of Keysville and circling around U.S. 360 to get back into Drakes Branch. Snead said the entire course totaled a little more than 40 miles. All participants were provided with lunch at the conclusion of the event.

“It’s a very small town and a very rural county. (There’s) not a lot for the kids to do here,” said Gregory. “I try to give them opportunities to stay out of trouble.”

At this time, he said, two pieces of playground equipment had been installed at the park. In addition, concrete forming has been set for a basketball court, the grass has been planted and maintained and a gravel parking lot installed. A swing set has also been purchased, but not yet installed.

According to its website, “the National Association of Buffalo Soldiers and Troopers Motorcycle Club (NABSTMC) was established in October of 1993 in Chicago, Illinois, by Kenneth ‘Dream Maker’ Thomas. Dream Maker found the NABSTMC for the purpose of fostering unity and fellowship with motorcyclists in the Chicago area.”

The site also states there are more than 100 chapters nationwide and overseas to date who place a strong emphasis on providing community service.

“I would like to thank Mr. Derrion Snead and the Buffalo Soldiers, in conjunction with other clubs and independent riders who showed up to support our charity ride,” Gregory said.

The Charlotte County Recreation Association will sponsor a Mega Class Reunion Fundraiser on Saturday, at Briery Country Club in Keysville.