FERGUS – Horseback riders in Centre Wellington will crunch through the autumn leaves again this October to raise funds for Hospice Wellington.
Hooves for Hospice is an annual trail ride through Fergus countryside organized by Lynn Smillie and her husband Peter Creighton.
Last year, the event raised $10,000 for Hospice Wellington, and in 2021 it raised $9,500.
This year the ride takes place on Oct. 14, rain or shine, and the goal is to raise another $10,000.
“It’s just a nice thing to do for Hospice Wellington,” Smillie said, and “we do really well … for such a small grassroots event.”
Between 50 and 60 riders participate each year, collecting pledges to sponsor their ride.
“It’s a beautiful ride,” Smillie said, through eight private farms donated by her neighbours. “We are really blessed” to have such generous neighbours, she added.
There are three groups of riders: one walking group, one group that walks and trots, and one group that goes the furthest distance and includes “lots of big canters,” she noted.
The walking group is a great opportunity for a chill and relaxing ride, Smillie said.
After the ride, which usually lasts about two hours, Smillie and Creighton provide a hot chili buffet for the riders to enjoy.
Smillie has been motivated to organize the fundraiser since she lost her father, James Smillie, to cancer six years ago.
“We do this in his memory – he inspired me to do this,” Smillie said.
The volunteers that show up to support the event include representatives from the Ontario Standardbred Adoption Society and the Ontario Special Services Mounted Unit.
Hospice Wellington also sends out “an army” of volunteers, Smillie said, so no more volunteers are needed for the event, but there is still lots of space for more riders.
Horse owners over 18 years old can register online at hoovesforhospice.ca until Oct. 6. Space is limited. Helmets and OEF/CRHRA coverage are required.
People can also participate remotely by collecting pledges to sponsor a ride closer to their home, instead of trailering their horse out for the group rides.
Remote riders can send photos to hoovesforhospice22@gmail.com to be included on the website.
People can also donate directly by visiting hospicewellington.akaraisin.com/ui/Hooves2023.
For more information, visit hoovesforhospice.ca.
