Feb. 21, 2006 — Horse theft didn’t ride out with the Old West. Today, it’s a growing business.
Debi Metcalfe, founder of Stolen Horse International (SHI) and her NetPosse Volunteers invite you to ride on behalf of SHI/NetPosse in Kansas, June 23-25. Proceeds from this first-ever SHI Charity Trail Ride will fund the efforts of NetPosse.
The ride will be limited to a total of 200 riders, and will only cost $100 for the weekend. Price includes two nights of camping space for rider; two nights of boarding for your horse in 10×10 pen; two days of guided rides on over 10,000 acres; two breakfasts; one dinner with entertainment provided; and a mini horse theft presentation by Metcalfe.
Paid participants will also have the option of having their horses microchipped for free by Kansas State University – College of Veterinary Medicine and/or freeze branded for a nominal fee by expert brander, Debora Godbey. During the registration process, you will be able to buy a special microchip package and/or custom freeze brander (if needed), and register for the microchipping and/or freeze branding.
Godbey has generously donated an AQHA dun yearling colt to be raffled off. This raffle is open to the public (not just Trail Ride participants), but the winner will be announced at the trail ride during Saturday evening’s dinner.
The 2006 SHI Charity Trail Ride is being coordinated by Amy Manning of Wichita, Kan. A victim of tack theft, Amy was thrilled when her stolen sidesaddle was recovered, and she vowed to help other victims through SHI. Amy presented the idea of the Trail Ride to Debi several months ago, and now this project has come to fruition.
“It is my hope that this Trail Ride will become the model for similar events across the county,” Debi stated, “and I can’t express to Amy how much her efforts mean, not only to other theft victims that will reap the benefits, but to me, personally. We have a lot of wonderful volunteers that make NetPosse what it is, but it takes funding to continue doing what this organization does. I am looking forward to June and seeing these efforts rewarding. Not only will this be a great fundraiser, but it is a chance for me to meet many of our volunteers and thank them in person for being a part of SHI.”
For more information about the 2006 SHI Charity Trail Ride, Microchipping, Freeze Branding or the Foal Raffle, log on to www.netposse.com/SHI_Trail_Ride.htm.
