Annual bike ride honors motorcycle safety and remembers a beloved son, father, and friend

BELLAIRE, Ohio (WTRF) — A special tribute to honor and remember a son, brother, father, and friend to many was held in Bellaire on Saturday.

In 2018, Chad Senkbeil tragically lost his life in a motorcycle accident after leaving a meeting at Denny’s Blue Angel Bar and Grill in Bellaire.

On Saturday, his family and friends hosted the 6th annual Chad’s Ride for Motorcycle Awareness, which was established a year after his accident.

The roughly 100-mile ride is completely free and includes several stops at some of Chad’s favorite places.

Chad’s stepmom says putting the event together each year is always emotional, but seeing so much community support makes it a little easier.

Today is the day where you realize you’re not grieving alone. Everybody here knew Chad, everybody misses Chad, and then the others that have lost their lives in a motorcycle accident. So, it’s pretty special. It’s just special. Nobody wants to lose a child, but when you have something like this to remember them by, well, it’s pretty important. I think it’s a good thing, and I’m really proud of it, I’m really proud of Chad’s Ride.”

Ann Senkbeil, Chad’s Stepmother

Chad’s stepmom says promoting motorcycle awareness has become a priority in their family, and they hope that the event will help save more lives each year.

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