The Story Behind Big Red
Honoring Cory’s Legacy. Helping Kids Play.
The Big Red Memorial Motorcycle Run honors the life and spirit of Cory “Big Red” Milton, a beloved son, brother, teammate, and friend whose life was tragically cut short at just 19 years old.
A graduate of Fitch High School in Groton, Connecticut, Cory was attending Baran Institute of Technology to pursue his passion for motorcycles. Standing 6’3″ with bright red hair and a larger-than-life presence, Cory earned the nickname “Big Red.” But those who knew him best remember him as a true gentle giant with an even bigger heart.
Cory loved sports, especially football. As a proud member of the Fitch High School football team for four years, he valued being part of something bigger than himself. It wasn’t about being the star player or winning every game. For Cory, it was about friendship, teamwork, and simply having the opportunity to play.
That same passion carried through his childhood, when he participated in baseball, basketball, golf, hockey, football, and track and field. No matter the sport, Cory loved being part of the team.
So All Kids Can Play
To honor Cory’s memory and his love of sports, his parents, Gary and Kelly Milton, and his brother, Ryan, established the Big Red Memorial Fund in 2007 with one simple mission: Give every child the opportunity to play, regardless of their family’s financial circumstances.
The fund helps children throughout New London County participate in youth sports by covering registration fees, equipment, and other expenses that might otherwise keep them on the sidelines.
Over the years, the Big Red Memorial Fund has supported young athletes participating in football, baseball, softball, basketball, soccer, swimming, fencing, track and field, cheerleading, lacrosse, and more. It has also provided assistance to numerous local youth sports organizations, school athletic programs, and sports camps throughout southeastern Connecticut.
Ride for a Reason. Make a Difference.
The annual Big Red Memorial Motorcycle Poker Run brings together riders, families, friends, and the community to celebrate Cory’s life while making a meaningful difference for local children.
Every ride, every donation, and every show of support helps carry Cory’s legacy forward, giving more kids the chance to experience the teamwork, friendships, confidence, and joy that sports brought to his life.
Join us in honoring Big Red and keeping his spirit alive, one child, one team, and one opportunity at a time.
Big Red Memorial Fund | So All Kids Can Play
Donations: Donations can also be made to the Big Red Memorial Fund, c/o Citizen’s Bank, 816 Long Hill Rd., Groton, CT 06340.
Interested in becoming a sponsor or have a donation you would like to make? Click the forms below to email or mail to them to us.
We thank you so much!
