Back in 2009 Geoff Randall started the “Spud Run Motorcycle Ride” that was in conjunction with the Big Lake Spud Fest.  It started out small and has grown to over 200 riders that go each year.  

The money that they raise stays in the Big Lake Community.  Geoff has since passed, and the group has dedicated the ride to him.  In honor of him, they have started the “Geoff Randall Memorial Scholarship” for a Big Lake High School student.  To date they have given $18,000 in scholarships alone in his memory and are hopeful to continue to donate each year.

This year alone they raised $13,500. Their fundraising has also allowed them to donate to general funds at each of the schools to help students that need school supplies, etc.  This year they are excited to offer two, $3,000 scholarships, school supply funds as well as donations to the Trap Shooting Team and the Robotics Team.  They also donated $1,000 to the Wave Center this year.

The ride takes place on the Saturday of Spud Fest, which falls every year on the last full weekend of June. The group leaves Tootsie’s Lakeside Tavern that morning and motorcyclists enjoy a beautiful ride through surrounding areas that includes three-to-four stops along the way.  They return to The Buff for dinner, which is included in the registration fee.  Their day ends with a live auction and raffles.

The organizers are so thankful for the many businesses and individuals that donate each year and they look forward to another successful event next year.  If one wishes to ride with them or donate to their event, please contact them at their website: http://biglakespudrun.square.site or call 612-810-9750.  If one preregisters, one also gets a free Spud Run t-shirt.  Come ride with them!