An annual memorial ride that raises money for various causes will host its 10th event this weekend.

The Saeler-Solkovy Memorial Ride is set for Saturday, and this year organizers say they’ve decided to donate proceeds from the event to various police departments and volunteer fire companies from Butler County.

Dan Saeler, who founded the ride in 2008 as a way to pay tribute to his brother, Steve, and friend John Solkovy, said picking first responders as this year’s recipients is a way to thank the departments for helping to keep participants in the event safe for the last decade.

The recipient departments are: Lick Hill VFD, Oneida Valley VFD, East Butler VFD, Mercer Road VFD, Saxonburg VFD, Butler City Police, Butler Township Police, Butler County Sheriff’s Office, and Penn Township Police.

“They helped us keep the ride safe for the last 10 years,” Saeler said. “I figured there’s no better way to give back to them.”

He also said the group saw a need among the emergency departments because of the high cost of replacing outdated radio equipment as part of a countywide transition to a new radio system.

Saeler said the changeover means each department is facing tens of thousands of dollars in equipment costs, and although most of the cost is being borne by the county and state, the departments need more help with the purchase.

Saeler said the ride — which this year heads out at 11 a.m. at the Beer Garden, 2399 Oneida Valley Road, Petrolia — attracts hundreds of motorcycles, as well as bicycles and other vehicles.

The event also includes an after-party at the Beer Garden that will feature food, door prizes, an auction and a 50-50 drawing.

There is a registration cost associated with the event, and registration begins at 9 a.m. Saturday. Those interested can find more information at www.sandsride.com.