Riders and Supporters Ante Up More Than $9,000

Fort Worth, TX -- More than $9,000 was raised in early May at the American Paint Horse Foundation "Bat Masterson Poker Ride and Casino Night" to benefit St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and therapeutic riding programs that help children and adults rehabilitate through the healing power of horses.

The events were co-hosted by Benbrook Stables, in Benbrook, Texas; the Texas Equestrian Trail Riders Association; the American Paint Horse Association (APHA) and the American Paint Horse Foundation.

Activities included a trail outing at Benbrook Stables, where more than 80 riders traversed the colorful landscape along beautiful Lake Benbrook with Texas wildflowers in full bloom. It also included three silent auctions, a live auction and Casino Night entertainment at APHA headquarters in Fort Worth to cap off the events.

In all, more than 250 individuals and organizations participated in the fundraiser. APHA employees and their families raised more than $4,800 through their participation and support. In addition, it was the third consecutive year that Benbrook Stables joined with APHA for a benefit trail ride. During that time, Benbrook Stables, APHA and the American Paint Horse Foundation have raised nearly $40,000 for their charitable causes.

Of the $9,000 raised this year, half will be awarded to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and the remainder will be added to the American Paint Horse Foundation's new "Therapeutic Riding" support fund. In the past year, the Foundation has raised nearly $35,000 to be used to support therapeutic riding centers and programs.

Supporters will be able to see their donations at work on July 2, 3 and 4 at the Summer World Championship Paint Horse Show in Fort Worth, Texas. At that time, the American Paint Horse Foundation will host its first-ever "Freedom Challenge" therapeutic riding event. Children and adults involved in therapeutic riding programs will showcase their riding abilities on American Paint Horses being used in these worthwhile programs. Wounded veterans, recovering from injuries, are also expected to participate.

Our Supporters The American Paint Horse Foundation received tremendous support from many companies and organizations to help make the "2009 Bat Masterson Trail Ride and Casino Night" a success. For a complete list of supporters visit: http://aphfoundation.org/masterson