A race for strength, freedom, and connection
Brought to you by Idaho Lumber
Bellevue, Idaho: Swiftsure Ranch announces the kickoff of Annual Swiftsure Derby. The Derby, brought to you for the second year in a row by Idaho Lumber, is a virtual horse race to raise funds to care for their therapy horses. Supporters get to pick their favorite horse and “place bets” (aka sponsor) to take it all the way to the finish line. Each horse is racing to raise the most sponsorship dollars by the end of day on May 1st. (official Derby Day) And, like any other horse race, you’ll want to make sure your steed makes it to the winner’s circle because the prizes are fantastic. All participants who pony up in support of Swiftsure’s therapy horses are entered into a drawing to win one of two extra special prizes.
For all our supporters: The Ultimate in Glamping: For the first time ever, Swiftsure Ranch is offering up a two-day getaway (or staycation if you live here) with unprecedented access to the ranch. Up to four guests get to stay at the campground by the river and will have the opportunity to enjoy everything the ranch has to offer. Pick your indulgence from private fly fishing on the Big Wood River and hiking trails to relaxing around the firepit and soaking up the stars. You can even ride the winning horse if you want! (provided it’s not one of the minis and of course, all safety measures apply)
For the winner’s circle: Kentucky Horse Country Weekend: Again, this year Churchill Downs, home of the famed Kentucky Derby, and 21C Museum Hotels have put together a package that will blow your derby hat right off. All who pony up for the winning horse will be entered to win this luxurious horse country weekend.
The Swiftsure Derby is a fun way to show your support and make an impact from anywhere in the world. However, if you are in town, you’ll find the ponies at Power House on Thursday, April 22nd and be sure to join us at the Warfiled Distillery & Brewery in Ketchum on May 1st for Derby on the Deck where we will bring the horses across the finish line.
This past year has exponentially increased demand for equine assisted activities and services. The benefits that are unlocked through interactions with horses are nothing short of remarkable. Most of us already know that certain equine-assisted therapies are effective for adults and children with physical limitations such as cerebral palsy, behavioral tics, motor control issues, coordination problems, and reduced mobility. At Swiftsure Ranch, we are learning that equine assisted activities are also beneficial for those who experience everything from anger and trauma to eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia. Equine connections help individuals to better manage their emotions and learn to process and express feelings with a more positive outcome. Swiftsure Ranch participants often experience everything from feelings of anxiety, depression and isolation to increased self-esteem and trust.
Join us online at swiftsureranch.org/swiftsure-derby between April 15 and May 1,2021 to help support Swiftsure’s mission of empowering individuals of all abilities to gain strength and freedom through therapeutic equine connections. You’ll also find live updates and results.
The funds raised from the Swiftsure Derby will allow us to keep our herd in tip-top shape so that together, we can provide opportunities for participants to thrive. It costs approximately $4000 per year to provide for each horse.
About Swiftsure Ranch: Sitting on 191 acres at the base of the Sawtooth Mountain Range, Swiftsure Ranch Therapeutic Equestrian Center is a nonprofit 501(c)3 with a special vision to encourage the physical, mental and emotional well-being of children and adults with challenges through equine-assisted activities and therapies.
In a normal year, up to 110 riders come to Swiftsure Ranch each week to participate in equine therapeutic riding and learn the skills to adapt to the world around them. This means that lessons are adapted to their unique physical, mental and/or emotional needs. Programs help build character, confidence and self-esteem in our participants, as well as give them opportunities to access the outdoors in a safe and caring environment.
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Executive Director Paul Bennett
Swiftsure Ranch Therapeutic Equestrian Center
Media Contact: Nancy Glick
