ARHA to Host National Day of the American Cowboy Trail Ride Weekend
By Lisa Munniksma
Join the American Ranch Horse Association (ARHA) as it celebrates “Preserving our Heritage” with a trail ride weekend, July 21-23, in commemoration of the second annual National Day of the American Cowboy. Willow Creek Campgrounds in Cadiz, Kentucky, near Land Between the Lakes will be the site for three days of trail riding, music, food, and camping.
By providing a venue to celebrate the National Day of the American Cowboy, the ARHA is continuing its commitment to the western lifestyle and preserving and promoting this country's rich western heritage.
“It seems only fitting that the American Ranch Horse Association would get everyone fired up about recognizing the National Day of the American Cowboy. We hope people will join us for a weekend of great music, riding, and fun in the heart of some of the most spectacular scenery in the country,” says ARHA secretary Erica Keeney.
A few friends, lawn chairs, and a cowboy state of mind are required. Participants do not need to bring horses to enjoy the festivities. Friday's trail ride starts at 4 p.m., followed by a pot-luck dinner and campfire entertainment. Saturday brings a full day of riding starting at 9 a.m. Saturday's dinner is a barbeque, then Best Dressed/Most Authentic Cowboy and Cowgirl Contest and dancing with music by the country music band Strait-Up. The contest winner will be awarded a gift certificate for a pair of boots from Henson's H Bar Western Store in West Paducah, Kentucky. Sunday brings another day of riding before heading home.
Campsites with water, electric, and picket lines are available at Willow Creek Campgrounds for $18 per night, as well as a shower house and free firewood. A limited number of stalls are available for an additional $5. For less adventurous cowboys, motels are nearby. National Day of the American Cowboy commemorative posters, bumper stickers, and other items will be available.
The American Ranch Horse Association Trail Ride Weekend is open to members and non-members with proceeds going to support ARHA programs and promotion of the western lifestyle. The ride, barbeque, and dance are $20 for adults; $10 for kids 12-years old and younger. Pre-event reservations are required through both ARHA and Willow Creek Campgrounds. For complete information and reservations, visit www.americanranchhorse.net or contact 606-271-2963, 606-872-ARHA, or arhainfo@aim.com .
Visit www.nationaldayofthecowboy.com for additional information about becoming involved with the National Day of the American Cowboy.
Formed in 2004, the American Ranch Horse Association promotes the abilities of the all-around versatile working horse in a positive atmosphere where western tradition is genuinely honored. Rapidly growing with more than 2,800 members, ARHA hosts competitions, clinics, and educational events throughout the year.
