FOND DU LAC, Wis. — Since 1997, motorcycle racers have taken to the frozen waters on Lake Winnebago for a good cause.
The Steel Shoe Fund Endurance Race raises money to help motorcycle racers who have been injured during competitions. It returned Sunday after a two-year hiatus.
Chuck Dickenson has been racing motorcycles for more than 60 years. Now, he does so with his daughter by his side. He said being recognized by other racers is something he takes pride in.
“It’s nice, if I’m making their life better just because I’ve done something and it makes them feel like they can accomplish more, that’s a great feeling,” said Dickenson.
Dickenson was having trouble getting his bike to start ahead of the race. Many people came to his rescue. He said the biking community is a special and helpful group.
“It’s just a great feeling, you know? I mean, these guys are going out of their way to make sure everybody gets to participate,” said Dickenson. “I mean, nobody wants to see somebody sitting in the pit with a problem when they could be out there riding.”
Dickenson’s daughter, Julia Hanson, said she wouldn’t be racing if it weren’t for her father. She started the day by putting screws in the bottom of their boots so they wouldn’t slip. She said bonding with her dad in a sport they both love means the world to her.
“Without his expertise, yeah, it wouldn’t be the same. So yeah, we’re a team,” said Hanson.
At 84 years old, Dickenson said racing is the key to feeling young. Although he isn’t as competitive as he used to be, he said his goal is to have fun while supporting a good cause. He said he wants to race until he physically can’t.
“We don’t have a number set yet. We’re going to find out what it is in the future,” said Dickenson. “It’s like life itself: you get up in the morning and go do the things you enjoy.”
Although Dickenson said the amount of time he has on the track is limited, he is grateful for all the memories he has made, and looks forward to making more with the people he loves.
The organizer of the Steel Shoe Fund, Chris DaRonco, estimated that the race has raised more than $20,000 this year.