With 135 kickstands going up at noon on July 16, Three of a Kind’s 11th annual motorcycle run and fundraiser to raise money for the Eagles Healing Nest in Sauk Rapids was off and running.

The event began at the Silver Bullet Saddle Club Clearwater Rodeo grounds the evening before, with lawn games and a bean bag tournament, won by the team of David and Corey. Emily Williams entertained the group with music from 6 to 9 p.m.

Saturday’s motorcycle run began at Clearwater Corners for registration and lunch and concluded back at the rodeo grounds, where an ice cream truck was on hand to help cool off attendees of all ages. A silent auction and live auction were both held, featuring items donated from a large group of businesses, organizations, and individuals. 

During the event Quilts of Valor were awarded to veterans Janet Gohman, Scott Searcy, and posthumously to Scott’s brother Byron Searcy. 

In a happy first for Three of a Kind’s event, Mike and Jen Thompson were married at the rodeo grounds after the motorcycle run. The couple had actually met at the annual event a few years back and had gotten engaged after last year’s ride.

At 8:00 p.m. the band Pandemic took the stage to entertain the crowd through the evening.

For those looking for refreshments, the Clearwater Legion and Clearwater Lions sold cold beverages while the Clearwater Sons of the American Legion was on hand selling food both evenings.

The mission of the non-profit organization Three of a Kind is to bring family, friends, and the surrounding community together to raise money for the Eagle’s Healing Nest in honor of Matt Steffens, Brett Johnson, and Jeff Colbenson.

All proceeds of Three of a Kind’s annual fundraiser are donated to the Eagle’s Healing Nest in Sauk Center and used for three scholarships to recipients at Monticello High School.