25th Annual CT United Ride to Commemorate 25th Anniversary of 9/11

Thousands of motorcyclists and spectators from across Connecticut and throughout the Northeast will come together Sunday, Aug. 30, for the 25th Annual CT United Ride, commemorating the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

Sponsored by the Uniformed Professional Fire Fighters Association of Connecticut (UPFFA), the CT United Ride is Connecticut's largest 9/11 tribute, one of the largest motorcycle rides in New England and the state's largest fundraiser benefiting firefighter and law enforcement relief funds.

“For those that lost their lives, for those that gave their lives, and for those that continue to put their lives on the line each day — that's why we ride,” said Fred Garrity Jr., executive director of the CT United Ride.

This year's event is expected to draw 2,500 to 4,000 riders, with an additional 15,000 to 20,000 spectators anticipated along the 60-mile route through Fairfield County. Riders travel from throughout Connecticut and as far away as Maine and Virginia, with large contingents coming from Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New York, Long Island and New Jersey.

The day will begin at Sherwood Island State Park in Westport, where a special 9/11 tribute and opening ceremony will begin at 10:30 a.m. The ceremony will include the Pledge of Allegiance, National Anthem, Connecticut State Firefighters Pipes and Drums, a moment of silence and the ringing of a fire bell 11 times beneath a fire ladder truck displaying a 50-foot American flag.

The motorcade will depart Sherwood Island promptly at 11:30 a.m. and travel through Westport, Wilton/Georgetown, Redding, Bethel, Newtown, Monroe, Trumbull, Fairfield and Bridgeport, before concluding at Seaside Park in Bridgeport at approximately 1:15 p.m.

More than 100 fire trucks are expected along the route, including aerial fire trucks displaying enormous American flags above the roadway. Up to 100 police escorts will accompany the riders, with more than 25 municipal fire companies and 35 police departments involved in the event.

Organizers are encouraging residents throughout Fairfield County to become part of the tribute by lining the route, displaying American flags and cheering on the riders as they pass.

“This year carries special meaning as we mark both the 25th anniversary of September 11 and the 25th CT United Ride,” Garrity said. “Twenty-five years ago, our nation experienced an unimaginable tragedy when nearly 3,000 innocent lives were lost, including hundreds of first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice. Whether you ride with us or stand along the route with your family and an American flag, we invite everyone to join us on this solemn and patriotic day as we remember those we lost, honor our first responders and stand together as one community.”

How to participate

Motorcyclists can pre-register on Saturday, Aug. 29, at Captain's Cove Seaport in Bridgeport's Black Rock neighborhood from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Organizers recommend registering Saturday when possible.

Limited registration will also be available the morning of the ride at Sherwood Island State Park in Westport from 8 to 10:30 a.m. Registration is $35 per rider and $35 per passenger.

The event will be held rain or shine.

Residents planning to watch the ride should be aware that the route will temporarily close to regular traffic as the motorcade passes. Motorists must wait until the final emergency vehicle has passed before proceeding, and motorcyclists cannot join the procession once it is underway.

For more information, visit CTUnitedRide.com or find The CT United Ride on Facebook. Questions may also be directed to Fred Garrity Jr. at 203-257-2176.