promises ‘excitement’

The nuns are ready to rev their engines for the seventh annual Run with the Nuns motorcycle rally fundraiser put on by the CHRISTUS Schumpert Foundation. Run with the Nuns VII pre-event activities begin 5 p.m. Oct. 18, and the rally begins 8 a.m. Oct. 19 in the Red River District in downtown Shreveport. The two-day fundraiser includes auctions, contests, games, food, music and more.

“Anytime bikers and nuns come together, you can expect tons of energy and excitement!” Jordan Marshall, marketing and public relations coordinator for CHRISTUS Health Shreveport-Bossier, said. “Our two-day rally is loads of fun, and it is an atmosphere fit for a family.”

All are welcome to attend – no matter religious belief or whether a biker or not. In previous years, RWTN has gathered more than 1,200 bikers and more than 200 volunteers with many more non-riders from across the region.

The first day of Run with the Nuns starts in the Red River District with pre-registration, dinner, a free concert by Pocket Change and a late-night pre-party at Fatty Arbuckle’s.

Registration for RWTN is $30 and includes breakfast, lunch, the ride and an official Run with the Nuns VII T-shirt.

On Saturday morning, the rally begins at 8 a.m. with registration and breakfast from sponsoring restaurant IHOP. The motorcyclists will take their place for the guided tour, but before setting off, Bishop Michael Duca from the Diocese of Shreveport and Msgr. Earl Provenza will bless each biker and motorcycle. The Sisters will give all participants religious medals of the Holy Family.

After an hour and a half tour through the scenic back roads of south Caddo Parish, bikers and non-riders will reconvene at Red River District for the judging and awarding of the “Nun’s Choice” trophy for the best bike. The festivities continue with music by Earshot Graffiti, Biker Bingo, a pie-eating competition and a tattoo contest.

“Plus, we have vendors selling a little bit of everything and good ol’ fun carnival games with loads of prizes,” Marshall said. “Auctions galore too, both silent and live.”

The silent auction runs from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and the live auction begins at noon. “The live auction includes a crawfish boil for 10, an American Girl doll with a complete wardrobe, a mini motorcycle, a handmade biker quilt, some beautiful artwork and even a Disney pass worth $400!” Marshall said.

Leading up to RWTN, the public may participate in the auction, which runs through 9 p.m. Oct. 20 offers more than 200 items (www.runwiththenuns.com). All proceeds from RWTN benefit children’s health programs in the region.

“There really is something for everyone and some real bargains, too,” Marshall said.

“Best thing is your bid helps local kids stay healthy and safe!” Past beneficiaries have included Sutton Children’s Hospital, the Cara Center for child victims of child abuse and neglect, the Gingerbread House and more. CHRISTUS Shreveport Bossier School- Based Health Center is one the groups who benefit from the donations raised from RWTN.

Yolanda Green, a registered nurse, said funds from previous rallies have helped the group to buy new medical equipment, equip an exercise area and enhance their educational programs.

“Those who visit Run with the Nuns will have the opportunity to enjoy activities designed for the whole family while knowing that the dollars they spend will be used to make a difference in the health and well-being of children in our local area,” Green said.

RWTN has also provided funding for the Back-To-School Healthy Checkup at Sci- Port. “This past August, some 1,800 children registered for the event,” Marshall said.

Marshall said two goals of RWTN is “for everyone to have a fun, safe time and to bring awareness and support to children’s health programs in our community.” She said the main message they want to get across to the public is that the children in the community need help.

The foundation will also award the RWTN Humanitarian Award 9:15 a.m. Oct. 19 to Chief Ernest Mitchell (Caddo First District 3) and Dr. Durell Tuberville (counselor, therapist, chaplain) for their dedicated service throughout the years.

The idea for Run with the Nuns was inspired by the Nun Run motorcycle rally in Houston. Though nuns riding motorcycles may seem unconventional, it’s just a day in the life for the Sisters.

“It is important to remember that Sisters are people, too,” Marshall said. “Some ride horses, some run in marathons, some drive trucks, and, yes, some ride motorcycles!” –Tiana Kennell