By Kevin J Sabo For the Advance
Forty-eight horseback riders braved the chilly October day to participate in Circle Square Ranch’s annual Ride-a-thon, raising money for the ranch’s horse program.
The event was originally intended to run in late September, however, an early fall snow storm forced the date change. The weather, while cool, cooperated allowing the riders to set off on the four-hour ride at around 1:30 p.m.
The ride is a major annual fundraiser since May 2000. The funds raised go toward the horse programs at the ranch, such as for feed, tack, new animals and vet bills.
“Sixty-five horses eat a lot of hay through the winter months,” said Roberta Christianson, the ranch office administrator. She added,” There is a reason my grandpa used to affectionately call them ‘hayburners.’”
This year’s ride raised more than $20,000 for the Circle Square horse program. Normally the ride has about 70 participants, and raises $25,000, but with the date change and cool weather, the ranch still considers this year’s ride a success.
“We’ve been snowed out when we tried the ride in June before,” said Christianson. “You just never know. “
