Around 125 bikes and 200 people came out to TSI Harley-Davidson/Buell in Ellington for the 2nd Annual CHARLIE's Ride motorcycle ride to promote heart disease awareness and prevention strategies.

The ride, created by Beth Hensel in honor of her father, Charlie Lewandoski, was also designed to remember the millions impacted by heart disease.

CHARLIE's Ride raised approximatley $6,000 in funds for the Hoffman Heart and Vascular Institute of Connecticut, which is a Saint Francis clinical center of excellence.

"Although we fell short of our goals, CHARLIE's Ride was a success," Hensel said.

The Master of Ceremonies was Laurye Natale, Ms. Connecticut World International 2011-12, and Connecticut Idol Winner and Ellington native Henry Smith sang the National Anthem.