The Kentucky Horse Park is gearing up for some great charity, AND excitement during the summer show series. The Kentucky Buck Off Challenge, a mechanical bull-riding contest, will take place on July 30th at 6:00 pm in the Bluegrass Jockey Club Tent. Admission to the event is $30 in advance or $35 at the door, and includes hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar.
At-risk horses
As the only national animal welfare charity solely dedicated to horse welfare and the horse-human bond, we applaud the efforts of the charities dedicated to protecting America's at-risk horses.
Proceeds will be earmarked for three Lexington-based EQUUS Foundation charities that have been recognized by the EQUUS Foundation as "Messengers" for their high standard of horse care and their commitment to public transparency and accountability. The charities are: Central Kentucky Riding for Hope, Kentucky Equine Humane Center, and Maker's Mark Secretariat Center.
"We are always looking for fun and creative ways to inspire and engage horse people, equestrians and people who love horses to get involved and make a difference.
As the only national animal welfare charity in the United States solely dedicated to horse welfare and the horse-human bond, we applaud the efforts of the charities that are dedicated to protecting America's at-risk horses and providing them homes and a wonderful purpose.
This fabulously fun faux-bull buck-off will be a great time for a great cause," said Valerie Angeli, VP Communications & Special Projects.
The Kentucky Buck Off Challenge will feature four member teams where each rider will be required to stay on the bull for 15 seconds, while keeping their free hand from touching the bull. If they make it to the 15 second horn, riders will be judged on style, performance and extra credit for creative attire.
Judges can give each rider a maximum of 25 points, making a perfect individual score 100 points, and a perfect team score 400 points. The competition entry fee is $25 per person, per ride. Practice rides for $10 per ride will start at 6:00 pm.
Buck Off for Horse Welfare - Competition Entry $25!
For sponsorship opportunities and to enter the competition:
Call Brian Lookabill at 803-439-0982 or 561-227-1537
Event organizer Brian Lookabill is a Lexington, Kentucky resident, and a regular voice heard at competitions across the country, but most regularly at the Kentucky Horse Park. He's a 25-year veteran of event production, from equine competition, to fund raisers for human, and animal welfare, as well as special interests in the community.
Brian has become quite familiar with, and dedicated to the EQUUS Foundation's mission after assisting in many of their equine welfare efforts over the years. He has also been an integral part of the fun & fund raising success of several mechanical bull riding events over the past seven years.
Purchase your tickets here.
Kentucky Buck Off Challenge Charity Beneficiaries:
Central Kentucky Riding for Hope (CKRH) is dedicated to enriching the community by improving the quality of life and health of individuals with special physical, cognitive, emotional or social needs through therapeutic activities with the horse.
Kentucky Equine Humane Center (KYEHC) is dedicated to providing humane treatment and shelter while working to seek adoptive homes and provide second chances for Kentucky's equines, regardless of breed. KyEHC is also committed to educating the public and raising awareness for responsible horse ownership so that fewer horses end up in crisis.
Maker's Mark Secretariat Center is dedicated to reschooling and matching former racehorses to new homes in suitable second careers and to advocate to the world the importance of aftercare.