rideforlifeThe San Dimas Ride for Life has organized a unique way to raise money for the American Cancer Society – horseback riding. Instead of walking in a Relay for Life, equestrians will ride their horses for a 10-hour ride-a-thon at Fairplex this Saturday for cancer support.

The public is welcome to come out to Fairplex’s horse arenas to cheer on the riders. There will be free demonstrations and games involving the horses for spectators to enjoy. Opening ceremonies begin at 9 a.m. with closing ceremonies at 7 p.m. So far, 57 riders and their horses are signed up.

Riders and the public can participate in the Remember ceremony. Lavendar ribbons to remember a cancer survivor or someone lost to cancer will be available for $10. The ribbons can be decorated. Riders will take the ribbons into the arena, ride for one lap, then place the ribbon in one of several vases in the center of the ring. After all ribbons are placed in the arena all riders simultaneously stop for 60 seconds, then reverse direction, in silence, to symbolize we are all changing direction, turning to Fight Back.

Ride for Life will also have an open mic available for survivors and caregivers to tell their story.

What a great event and a wonderful way to encourage cancer survivors and remembers those who’ve died. Organizer Bob Hardcastle said he hopes to grow the event in the coming years, with more riders and more activities.

In the meantime, come out to Fairplex on Saturday, fight against cancer and pet a horse. Bring chairs and goodies to munch on. If it rains, the riders will move to the covered horse arena.

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