by Gen Sullivan

Hamilton, NJ — The reports are in, the sneakers and saddles are off, the horses are rested and the walkers are all in their recliners. The National Rescue Ride, the first fundraiser designed to raise awareness of the plight of unwanted, abused and neglected horses, was a success for all involved.

The October 19 National Rescue Ride attracted horse and animal lovers from 85 charities with 850 registered riders from 31 states participating. Riders and walkers collected sponsorships and rode or walked for their selected charity, raising a total of over $300,000.

Prizes were awarded to the riders or walkers acquiring the most sponsorship money. The first prize of $1,000 went to Rosie Cassell of Rainbow Meadows Equine Rescue and Retirement, Inc. of Kansas. She raised $4,015. Second prize of $300 went to Margaret Andrews who raised $2,960 for A Chance for Bliss in California. Faith Bjalobok raised $1,300 for Hog Heaven Rescue Farm, Inc. of Pennsylvania and won a National Rescue Ride basket worth $200. Monte Gelrod raised $1,171 for the Standardbred Retirement Foundation of New Jersey and won a $100 gift certificate to Rick’s Saddle Shop.

The National Rescue Ride would like to thank everyone who participated in this worthy event. See you next year!