In 1996, members of the Stephenville’s Community Support Group for MS were asked by the Lone Star Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society if they wanted to host a traditional walk event for a fundraiser. One member of the group replied “This is cowboy country; we don’t walk, we ride.”
This laid the foundation for the Cowboy Capital MS Trail Ride. The 27th annual ride is set for May 4 at Blue Stem Ranch in Morgan Mill.
The 2,000-acre ranch about 2.5 miles west of Morgan Mill provides the perfect place for the trail ride with its varied terrain and ample parking at the camp site for your vehicles and trailers.
Currently MS affects 400,000 people in the U.S. and 2.5 million worldwide. There is no cure but advancements in treatment give hope to those affected and their loved ones.
Funds received through the MS Trail Ride support research, education, advocacy and local programs that enhance the quality of life for people with MS and their families. Cost for the ride a minimum $50 donation for adults and $30 for children 12 and under.
Riders may enter as individuals or a team of three. Runners/walkers can enter the fun run for a $25 donation. While these are the minimum donations of entry, participants are encouraged to seek sponsorships to draw more attention to the disease and the need to raise funds to fight it.
A chuckwagon breakfast is provided by the Erath County Cowboy Church during the 8 a.m. check-in as the silent auction also begins. Trail ride instruction and invocation will be at 8:45 a.m. with riders heading out at 9 a.m.
Registration for the trail run/walk begins at 9:15 a.m. with orientation at 9:45 a.m. and disembarking at 10 a.m.
A free lunch for the participants will be served from noon to 1 p.m. with a live auction to follow.
Winners are also drawn in handgun and rifle raffles following the lunch. Tickets are being sold at The Gun Vault and Grand Entry Western Store.
For more information, visit mstrailride.org.