Bikers revved up their motorcycles for a good cause on Saturday.

The Syracuse Police Benevolent Association hosted its first annual Memorial Day Motorcycle Ride, which began at the American Legion on Academy Street in Syracuse.

Proceeds from the event are going toward the Syracuse Vet Center on Pine Street. 

Joseph Moran is the head of the PBA, and said that he wanted to make sure money raised from the ride stayed local.

He is new to the post, and says this kind of outreach is only the beginning.

"One of my primary focal points was to have the PBA more engaged in the community," Moran said. "During the campaign trail, a number of members approached me. They emphasized that they'd like to see more support without veterans, local military organizations. I decided to create this Memorial Day Motorcycle Ride. And again, the turnout here has been really outstanding."

Moran said they initially expected about 100 riders for Saturday's event, but the turnout exceeded his expectations.