Cycle Race To Benefit Teen Drug Treatment Center In Kahuku

The family of Bobby Benson, the teenager who committed suicide in 1984 after a long battle with drug abuse, is hosting a motorcycle fundraiser this Saturday to benefit the scholarship fund for a Kahuku-based teen drug treatment center.

Proceeds from the ride and concert to follow will assist young people who need the services of the Bobby Benson Center’s addiction treatment programs.

BBC is the only residential substance abuse treatment center in Hawaii for adolescents, and it provides treatments that weren’t available to Benson 30 years ago.

“The goal of the Bobby Benson Center is to return teens to their schools and communities with the skills to remain drug- and alcohol-free, and to mature successfully in today’s world,” stated David Benson, Bobby’s father and the center’s founder.

“We are excited about this fundraising event and appreciate the support of the community’s motorcycle enthusiasts and the general public.”

The ride, hosted by local funny man and actor Andy Bumatai, will begin at 10:30 a.m. at Montgomery Powersports on Nimitz Highway. It concludes 90 minutes later at the center, 56-660 Kamehameha Hwy.

Entertainment follows the ride and includes a performance by Kailua Bay Buddies and Taimane. There will be giveaways and food for purchase.

Parking will be available outside the center.

Concert admission is $20, and entry wristbands will be available before the start of the ride and at the center.

Bobby Benson Center is fully accredited by the International Commission for Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities and the state Health Department. Donations are tax-deductible.

Those wishing to help but unable to attend the concert can donate through the website’s PayPal account at bobbybenson.org or by calling 293-7555.