A tradition that now spans generations, the Rumsey Ride for STARS is back for its 27th year.
The annual ride, put on by the Rumsey Ag Society, is the longest running volunteer based STARS Air Ambulance fundraiser. While many fundraisers hit a wall, with all kinds of issues, such as volunteer burn out or loss of interest, while it has ups and downs, it bucks the trend.
“Last year we had a good year, but the year before was the 25th anniversary and it was huge, we raised $60,000. Last year we still did $40,000 which is solid,” said Rob Richmond who has been busy getting the word out for the ride. “You never know what to expect but last year the ridership was up. There were about 165 riders last year.”
He recognizes that this year could be tougher to raise funds with the state of the economy, and the efforts Albertans have made to support Fort McMurray following the wild fire. But as always, Richmond is positive. In fact, the ride has made it through tough conditions, from floods to BSE.
“We have seen it all, but people still are generous and donate,” said Richmond.
Part of its longevity is that STARS has affected so many lives.
“I think the biggest thing is everyone has someone that they know has been touched, whether it be a co-worker or a relative or a neighbor,” said Richmond.
The Rumsey Ride is coming up on Sunday, August 7 at the Bar TL Rand near the Tolman Bridge. At the heart of the event is a trail ride geared for riders of all ages and abilities, with expert guides and beautiful scenery, but that is not all.
The Bar TL Ranch will allow riders to come Saturday to set up camp and have a good night’s sleep before heading out on to the trail.
To fuel up for the ride the Rumsey Volunteer Fire Department hosts breakfast. Gooch’s Gang will be serving lunch from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m., and the day caps off with a Country Cookers beef supper.
To keep participants and supporters entertained, Jill Brodie will have her Ducks and Dogs Demo. The event will include a $5 poker rally for the riders, and a slides auction, raffle prizes and the annual Richmond Quilt raffle.
The strength of the event is the volunteers and participants that continue to support the event.
“It has that small town feel, it is not just a Rumsey event, because of all the surrounding communities we try to encompass … from Stettler to Drumheller,” he said. “There are so many great people that help.”
For more information check out the 27th Annual Ride for STARS Facebook page, or contact Ernie Goddard at 403-368-2132, or Mary Newton at 403-368-2121 or email marynewton48@hotmail.com.
