Riders hit the trail for children's research hospital

Horseback riders spread out over an autumn-colored pasture on the Hitch Willow Ranch south of Culbertson, Nebraska, for a fund-raising trail ride for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Saturday, Oct. 20. (Courtesy photo)

CULBERTSON, Nebraska -- Over the gray rump of "Dunny," trail boss Terry Morris kept a close eye on the 42 horseback riders who followed him through the hills south of Culbertson, Nebraska Oct. 20, raising money for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.

Morris said the riders and those who gathered for a smoked pork picnic lunch will be able to send about $1,500 to St. Jude's.

"Everyone donated with their heart," Morris said. "Even the smallest riders ... " Terry described a little guy -- "six years old, two-feet tall and a little cowboy hat" -- who approached him, stuck out his clenched fist, explained that this was his donation and handed Terry $1.75.

Over the head and through the ears of his seven-year-old gelding named "Dunny," trail boss Terry Morris (right) gives instructions before starting the five-mile ride -- some of it over what Terry calls "billy goat country." (Courtesy photos)

The youngest rider was five years old on a mare 15 1/2 hands tall, Terry said, adding, "She was fearless." The oldest was "seventy-or-so. I didn't ask. He looked tougher'n me," Terry chuckled. The riders coming the greatest distance was a family who drove in from Iowa.

"It was a great day," Terry said, ... clear blue skies, no wind. "Everyone I talked to said the meal was fantastic, the ride was perfect, and they'll be back next year."

Terry and his family are grateful for the "phenomenal generosity" of Schmick's Market of McCook, which provided food for the meal highlighted by smoked pork shoulder sandwiches and Terry's special-recipe doctored-up baked beans. He also greatly appreciated donations of meal supplies, water and door prizes and monetary gifts from Tri-State Livestock, Tom Kiplinger, Wagner Chevrolet, Cowboy Up Tack, Orscheln Farm and Home, State Farm Insurance/Kristi Baker and Wal-mart.

Courtesy photo

Terry acknowledged the help and support of his family, Hitch Willow Ranch owner Norm Timmerman and the ranch support staff. "This was a group effort, definitely ... not just me," Terry said.