The High Sierra Riders, a 4-H club in Carson City, is hosting its third annual Saddle Up For St. Jude’s, a Western hoedown and trail ride, Saturday at the Washoe Lake State Park.
“We’ve had several kids who’ve been affected by cancer at all levels,” said Erin Lehman, one of the club’s leaders and the event organizer. “We thought St. Jude’s was a great cause because it helps child patients who are fighting for their lives. The kids love this project.”
The evening begins with check-in at 4 p.m. in the equestrian area of the park, followed by a horseback ride through the park from 5-7 p.m. Riders will be given a map of the trail and will be free to choose their own routes.
“People are welcome to ride in large groups or just a couple at a time,” Lehman said.
Riders must bring their own horses, and participants will be given a card with the name and photo of a cancer patient at St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital to attach to their saddle horns.
Lehman said club member Avery Hudak came up with the idea to take the patients on the ride.
“That way, you can be doing that trail ride in their name,” Lehman explained. “Like they’re there with you. When you see a picture of the kids, it’s really heartfelt.”
The 40-member club raised $8,000 last year and has a goal of collecting $10,000 this year.
Those who do not have horses or do not wish to ride may sign up for the barbecue dinner, dessert auction and entertainment only.
For the ride and dinner, tickets are $25. For just the dinner, tickets are $10. Proceeds go to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, and additional donations are welcome.
“It should be a lot of fun,” Lehman said. “And it’s for a really great cause.”
For more information, contact Lehman at erinlehman@sbcglobal.net or 775-230-3900.