Austin’s Ride this weekend promotes suicide awareness

5 years ago

VAN BUREN, Maine — The fourth annual Austin’s Ride for Suicide Awareness will take off at 11 a.m. on Sunday, July 28, from Presque Isle and make its way to Van Buren.

Austin West of Van Buren, 15, lost his longtime battle with depression and ended his own life on July 2, 2016. Austin’s friends and family have made it their mission to be his voice and raise awareness about mental illness. They created the Austin James West Memorial Scholarship Fund for Aroostook County students wishing to attend college in Maine. 

All monies raised will benefit the scholarship fund. There are no registration fees and donations will be accepted. 

Registration for the event will begin at 10:15 a.m. at the Whited Ford Truck Center in Presque Isle, with kickstands up at 11. Riders will join the Pine State Motorcycle Club, Aroostook County Sheriff’s Office, Limestone Police Department and the scholarship fund as the group heads north toward the Long Lake area and ends at the Tasty Food Restaurant in Austin’s hometown of Van Buren.

All motorcycles and road-legal vehicles are welcome. 

For more information visit Team Austin on Facebook or e-mail teamaustin01@outlook.com.