Team 421 honors fallen riders, embraces community at 3rd annual Tri-Cities Takeover

JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — Team 421 hosted its third annual ‘Tri-Cities Takeover’ on Sunday, where hundreds of riders were expected to gather to remember friends who they’ve lost and take a group ride in their honor.

Tri-Cities Takeover kicked off at Jim’s Motorcycle Shop Sunday morning with live music and food trucks as riders rolled in. The event featured prize raffles, community resources, vendors and more before attendees lined up for the group ride.

Team 421’s Heather Ward told News Channel 11 that proceeds from the day’s festivities will go to families that have lost motorcycle riders this year.

“We get really close to these people,” Ward said. “They’re more than just friends, they’re family, and no one wants to go through a dark time by themselves. You get to the point where you’re not sure how you’re going to move forward or get out of the bed in the morning, so we don’t want [them] to worry about funeral costs or medical bills or anything of that nature.”

Team 421 hosts several charity events throughout the year, including benefit rides for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and fundraisers for children in need of Christmas presents.

Leaders of the group said they urge the public to keep an eye out for motorcycles and to always look twice when driving.

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