The deadline to participate in the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association’s (NARHA) Challenge Ride 2003 is quickly approaching. This year’s promotion will officially conclude on Oct. 31, 2003. The Challenge Ride is an easy way to sharpen your riding skills while raising funds for a worthy non-profit organization.

Similar to a typical “ride-a-thon,” participants simply gather pledges from family and friends, then ride their horse at a time that is convenient for them. Participants also have the flexibility to ride any distance that is comfortable for them. Based on the amount of pledge dollars returned to the NARHA national office, riders will become eligible for a variety of prize drawings.

Informational flyers, pledge receipts, and prize details can be found on the association’s website at www.narha.org. For more information on the Challenge Ride promotion, please contact Mike Hausmann at 800/369-RIDE (7433), ext. 114 or e-mail mhausmann@narha.org.

The North American Riding for the Handicapped Association was formed in 1969 to promote equine assisted activities for individuals with disabilities. At more than 700 member centers, a total of 36,000 people find a sense of independence through involvement with horses. These member centers range from small, one-person programs to large operations with several instructors and therapists. In addition to horseback riding, a center may offer any number of equine activities such as driving, vaulting, trail riding, competition, ground work, or stable management. Through a wide variety of educational resources, the association helps individuals start and maintain successful riding programs. There are more than 30,000 volunteers, 2000 instructors, 5,700 therapy horses, and thousands of contributors from all over the world helping people at NARHA centers