Over 100 local motorcyclists gather at Preisker Park in Santa Maria for first annual Blessing of the Bikes

SANTA MARIA, Calif. - Motorcyclists from up and down the central coast met for the first annual Blessing of the Bikes fundraiser in Santa Maria.

“All of us that ride bikes need prayer because it’s too dangerous out there. So we ask for protection," said motorcyclist and pastor, Mike Salazar.

“It’s a good thing to get your bike blessed. We are always careful out there on the road but that little bit of extra security is kind of nice to have," said motorcyclist, Patrick Wright.

This event was put on by Santa Maria resident, Clara Rodriquez Miranda.

Clara Miranda wants to unite the motorcycle community and fight stigmas.

There’s a misconception about riders. A lot of times they think we’re coming from a negative place or the intentions of the heart are negative. No, that’s not true," said Miranda.

Riders came from Bakersfield, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Guadalupe, Orcutt and more.

The event was held to raise money for local youth nonprofit organizations.

“It feels great to be here, to see all these bikes here, the fellowship. Locals riders just coming together and supporting a good cause," said motorcyclist, Randy Rose.

Raffle tickets and meals were sold to raise money that will be reinvesting back into the youth via scholarships and charity organizations.

“It’s for a good cause. I came all the way from Bakersfield to take part in this,” said motorcyclist, Trinidad Rangel.

Vendors also sold motorcycle gear at Preisker Park in Santa Maria.

Event planner, Clara Rodriquez Miranda, said this will be the first of many motorcyclist gatherings in Santa Maria.

“Truthfully, I didn’t expect it. I didn’t imagine all this. I’m humbly grateful for all the support," said Clara.