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| Let's Joust Again, Like We Did Last Summer! |
You are here: Newsletters > July 2006 > Let's Joust Again, Like We Did Last Summer!
By Laura Wade Baier
It's that time of year again, as ERRI prepares for the 7th Annual AJC Benefit
Joust for ERRI on July 22nd at Rendezvous Farm.
Last year, the event brought in over $3,200 for ERRI's horses, and board members
and volunteers hope they can double that amount this year.
The Amateur Jousting Club of Maryland, Inc. began the benefit in 2000 to help
ERRI raise much-needed funds.
Club members Bruce and Peggy Hoffman adopted their horse Danny from ERRI. Danny
went on to become a jousting powerhouse in Maryland, taking Peggy to the state
championships again and again.
ERRI's founder Debbie Frank looks forward to the event each year.
"It's such fun for everyone involved," Frank said. "The atmosphere is
competitive, but everyone cheers on everyone else. The club encourages anyone
who wants to try, to participate and learn about jousting. They don't
discriminate by breed or discipline."
ERRI volunteers and board members can attest to that as AJC club members have
helped them learn to "catch the rings" year after year on rescue horses in
rehabilitation or on their personal mounts in training for dressage, jumping,
pleasure or trail.
ERRI Advisory Board President Laura Wade Baier said, "I think what makes this
event so special is that it's so family
family-oriented. Anyone in the community, whether they are involved with horses
or not, can come and watch and have a great time cheering for the competitors.
You don't hear foul language or see bad sportsmanship. You see people having a
great time and you can help a great cause."
ERRI raises money during the event by asking for parking donations, selling ERRI
merchandise, face-painting and opportunities for kids to have their picture
taken on or with an ERRI rescue. ERRI also encourages the public to choose a
jouster to sponsor for the day.
The event begins at 11 a.m. The raindate is July 29th. The joust would only be
moved in the case of steady, hard rain. Spectators can bring blankets, chairs
and lots of sunscreen. Nihilator Catering will be on hand with food and drinks.
Anyone interested in participating in the joust should contact Laura Wade Baier
at 717-227-1614 to signup. Classes cost $5 and riders must bring their own horse
and wear a helmet while mounted.
ERRI asks the public to please leave their other pets at home.
