Submitted by Sue Helm
The 12th Annual NCH Trails to Treatments (TTT) Cancer Benefit and Ride was held over the Labor Day weekend in Middle River. It is a fact that the TTT Committee felt there needed to be changes made to the weekend’s activities, but the pandemic didn’t stop them from hosting this annual fundraising weekend so those in need of funding during their treatment of cancer can continue.
Activities kicked-off on Friday at 4 pm with a “Horse Fun Run”. There were 47 riders that participated, and Wayne Ziska was the winner of the 50/50 split. Thanks to the Spud Wagon, food was hot and ready to serve from 4-8 pm at the Ornquist Arena. Next up, riders of all ages were encouraged to sign up for a new Friday evening activity, an Obstacle Course Competition. This competition consisted of 3-age divisions and offered a fun and challenging activity for horses and riders. A total of 22 riders took the challenge! The winners of the ‘12 & Under Division’; 1st place-Keira Gornowicz, 2nd place-Claire Gornowicz, 3rd place-Lilly Heinen, 4th place-Brynn Moen. The winners of the ‘13-17 Division’; 1st place-Silver Kraska, 2nd place-Gabby Heinen; 3rd place-Zoey Magner. The winners of the ‘18 & Over Division’; 1st place-Wayne Moses, 2nd place-Shirley Horien; 3rd place-Sadie Gornowicz. Congratulations to all the Friday winners! The night’s fun continued with Nathan Bukowski setting up his Karaoke equipment for lots of singing by a crackling campfire.
Saturday started early with a tasty breakfast served by Norie and Friends at the American Legion. After breakfast, a total of 53 riders took off on the trail ride from the Ornquist Arena, riders could choose one of three ride options, 4,12, or 19 miles. At noon, boxed lunches were served by the Flying V Cancer Fighters at the American Legion. Live music on the Main Street Stage from 2-5 pm kept everyone entertained. A big THANKS to Nathan Bukowski, Lisa Koble, Tami Lee, Marlow Lorenson, and Rick Wiseman for sharing your vocal talents. Also, on Saturday afternoon there were horses to ride by the Fire Hall and wagon rides along the Luminary Trail. A boxed evening meal of barbecued ribs with all the fixin’s was served from 5-8 pm at the American Legion. On the street north of the Legion at 5 pm, the Best Dressed Cowboy/Cowgirl Contest was held. There were 5 adorable participants, with 10-month old Karson Klasen and 4-year old Ava Issak winning this year’s competition. The Cancer Tribute Ceremony, silent and live auctions filled the rest of Saturday evening, which concluded with a campfire at the Ornquist arena.
Thank you to everyone who sponsored, donated, volunteered, shared a meal, and purchased items! And a special thank you to all the teams for their fundraising efforts throughout the year. You have helped make the Trails To Treatments Grant Program possible. Together we are making a difference!
Last modified: 09/23/2020
