Looking Back on the Fifth Annual Trot for TROT 5K/1K Fun Run

Therapeutic Riding of Tri-Cities annual fall fun run Trot for TROT was another great success

October 11th marked the fifth annual Trot for TROT 5K/1K fun run that supports Therapeutic Riding of Tri-Cities. Despite strong winds attempting to blow the race away, runners took to the start line at Columbia Point to canter for a cause. The race itself was set up along the beautiful, rolling Columbia River, giving runners a nice view as they ran with friends, coworkers, and family.

The fun run featured the steel drum band “Bram Brata”, also known as “An Unexpected Party” in Trinidad. The start of the race also offered local vendors tents like REI and Just Juice for racers to peruse. There was even Josten’s Petting Zoo that included sheep, ducks, bunny rabbits, and more!

“Seeing all the kids and dogs in costumes was such a cute thing, I really love that,” said Cythina MacFarlan, Founder and Executive Director of TROT. “I really wanted it to be an event that the whole family could come to. And mind you, that’s why we chose that location on the Columbia: it's accessible to wheelchairs and walkers, so everyone has the chance to join in if they want to.”\

This year, over 200 runners and walkers joined the fun run. Runners and sponsors helped raise more than 18,000 for therapeutic riding programs!

The fundraising efforts of Trot for TROT pour into the operational costs of the main programs of TROT: Adaptive Riding, Path to Success, Horses Helping Heroes, and Trotter Club.

“Those programs have reached a variety of sectors in our community, from young children to the elderly. Groups that may have been more marginalized and are considered vulnerable populations.” said Cynthia. “It may seem just recreational, but its therapy that is impacting people’s lives. All the money that we raise from these type of events goes directly into operating these programs.”

Cynthia went on to say, “Originally, TROT was completely operating

CJ Joseph, from Country Financial, was one of the enthusiastic runners that day.

“I had decided that for my birthday, Oct 3rd, this year, I wanted to do something that wouldn't benefit me directly,” explained CJ. “It was a great event to get out and go participate firsthand!”

CJ added with a laugh, “My favorite part of the race was getting absolutely smoked by a 12-year-old kid for the entire 5K. He was a great sport and we even raced to the finish line. He won. The best overall part of the event was the attendance of all the dogs and families. It was awesome to see how much support the event had cultivated.”

While CJ brought birthday energy to the race, other runners like Ryan Jacobs, with Mow Force, ran for deeply personal reasons.

"I thought the race was great,” said Ryan. “Nice weather, and it fit my busy schedule. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves.”

He went on to explain, “I chose to run because TROT has done so much for my nephew. My sister says everyone is nice at TROT when she takes her son for lessons/therapy. It works and helps him with the autism that God gave him."

Whether it’s a child developing new motor skills and flexibility on a horse or a trafficking survivor learning how to trust again in a safe environment, every dollar raised helps TROT continue its mission through the healing bond between humans and horses.

TROT would like to extend a special thank you to all the sponsors (LIST THOSE HERE) this year for making this event possible. Especially to McCurley Subaru for their longstanding support.

Plans are already galloping ahead for next year’s race, so be sure to stay tuned!

If you are interested in getting involved with TROT as a volunteer, please reach out here.

If you are interested in donating, look here.

Photo credit goes to FotoRuby.