Vancouver Island Memorial Trail Ride Against Cancer

We received this note and photos from Susan Sheppard and wish to share it with WHR viewers.

“We are a small riding club based out of Coombs, Vancouver Island B.C.  As we lose more trails every year my vision is to let the general public see what horse owners are doing to make a difference in peoples lives. For people to notice we need numbers to ride so I am hoping the more that see the info the more will come and ride.  To date the riders have brought in more than $170,000.”

This will be the 13^th year of the Trail Ride, this year hosted on August 21. Organizers would like to extend a huge thank-you to all of the dedicated volunteers and riders that have all made this happen and to date have raised over $170,000.  The Silver Spur Riding Club hosts this event with up to 100 equestrians participating.  The St. Columba Church Men’s Group provides an excellent breakfast for all.

The Ride formally known as the Bob Preuss Memorial Trail Ride is in memory of firstly Bob Preuss, a long time volunteer with the Canadian Cancer Society in this area and the person who initially had the idea to hold a trail ride. Sadly Bob died in 2002.  This year participants are encouraged to remember friends and family lost to cancer and share memories of those special people.  Bring a photo of a loved one affected by cancer to add to the permanent memory board.

There will be a social evening & BBQ, Friday August 20 of BBQ chicken donated by Whitta Farms and cooked with the aid of AA Catering Texas BBQ and roast beef donated by Qualicum Foods.  Tickets are available $5.00 for riders and $10.00 for none riders.  Early registration available 6p.m.-8p.m.  After dinner stay for some entertainment on horseback. Camping available from Friday night on.

There are two trails for the riders to choose from, the first being the “River Ride” across Englishman River and through the trails of Top Bridge Regional Park.  The second is “Chuck’s Ridge” where riders get an amazing view!  There is also a shorter ride of about 2 hours for those who would prefer less time in the saddle.  There is an optional Poker Ride for those who wish to try their luck. A $5.00 PRE- REGISTERED PAID per hand or $10.00 per hand on day of ride.  Riders will start riding out at 8:00 with the last riders out at 10:30.  Check in begins at 7:00 a.m. on the 21^st.  Camping is available.

After the ride all riders can enjoy a wonderful burger supplied by the White Spot Restaurant, Parksville.  You may also make donations and pick up pledge forms at the White Spot, Parksville.

This year, again, included in the great prizes from businesses all over the Island include a saddle donated by Buckerfields Country Store which is on display in Parksville.

Enjoy the ride, everyone!