It’s difficult to judge just when a tradition becomes an institution but, when representatives of the homes, creches, charities and grass-roots child groups who benefit to the tune of more than 100 000 toys each year say bluntly: “Don’t stop!” and even the Air Force is keen to get involved, we can safely say that point has been passed.

That institution is, of course, the annual Toy Run, held on the last Sunday of November each year (this year it falls on the 27th), an event that has moved beyond the motorcycling community in the past three decades to become part of South Africa’s vibrant rainbow culture.

In this, the 29th year of the event, more than 20 Toy Runs will be held all over South Africa, in big cities and small communities, from as few as 20 motorcycles to as many as 20 000, all with a common cause – toys for kids.

The Johannesburg Toy Run has become so big that the organisers have shifted the emphasis from the mass rides (there were five in 2010, converging on the same destination, and the logistics were a nightmare) to a new end venue at the Benoni Northerns Sports Club in Brodigan Avenue, Northmead.

Toy Runners are advised to avoid the N12 at all costs due to construction; take the R21 to the Atlas off-ramp, after the Airfreight turn off, and follow the banners.

The Toy Run will be open from 8 am to 3pm; the entry fee will be a toy, toiletry item, educational toy or stationary item to be donated to the less fortunate children in our communities.

There will be entertainment all day at the club with three live bands, plenty to eat and drink at biker-friendly prices, and Toy Run memorabilia, riding gear and jewellery on sale.

However, for those diehards who reckon it isn’t a Toy Run without a mass ride, there will be groups meeting at Edenvale/Meadowdale Checkers Hyper in the East Rand and WestGate Shopping Centre in the West, to ride together to the end venue.

Any licensed rider on any licensed motorcycle or scooter is welcome; the Toy Run is held on public roads with the co-operation of the Traffic department but they won’t co-operate with any unlicensed bikes or unroadworthy behaviour.

More information from chairman Shaun Fine (072 129 7511) or convenor Pete Beart (083 229 6621).