An Easter weekend tradition in Iowa is underway — the annual Pony Express Ride to Camp Sunnyside started Friday in points across the state and will conclude this Saturday afternoon. Renee Bell, spokeswoman for Easter Seals of Iowa, says 200 to 300 riders are headed for the organization’s camp in Ankeny.
“The Pony Express Riders will be coming from all four corners of the state and bringing in the donations that they have from all the fundraisers that they have done throughout the past year,” Bell says. “They will converge in a parade of riders at Camp Sunnyside.” Over the years, the riders have galloped through snow, rain and extreme heat during the Easter weekend. Bell say’s she’s proud of the riders’ accomplishments.
Bell says, “This year will be the 43rd year for the ride and over the past 42 years, they’ve raised over eight-and-a-half million dollars for Easter Seals.” Last year’s ride netted more than $174,000 to benefit the camp that serves about one thousand campers each year.
She says the Pony Express’ goal is to raise money so children with disabilities and adults with disabilities can attend camp. The annual victory party and dance will be held tonight at the Lake Robbins Ballrooom near Woodward. Learn more at: “ia.easterseals.com“.
By Pat Powers, KQWC, Webster City