Waterloo Township’s 7th annual Ride to Survive hits the trail to kick cancer

by Cindy Lance

Not even a severe thunderstorm could dampen the spirits of the coordinators and more than 30 horseback riders at the seventh annual Ride to Survive event held June 1 at Farmlane Horseman’s camp in Waterloo Township. While some participants rode equines in the woods, others crouched under a tent, erected to keep the vast assortment of prizes and shirts safe from the storm. In spite of the weather, more than $4,500 was raised, bringing the total over the years to more than $20,000.

Ride to Survive started in 2009 as “Team JJ –I dream of Jeanie” in honor of Munith resident Jeanie, Bill Richmond’s mother who lost her battle with breast cancer. Sue Vaneyck and sister Cindy Ott established the event for their best friend, whom they lovingly called JJ. The event raises funds in support the main fundraising event of the American Cancer Society (ACS) Relay for Life in the Jackson area, which takes place during August. 

In 2012 Richmond’s wife, Karla, stepped up to coordinate the team. She and her sister, Kim Powers, also of Munith and also a Stockbridge High School alumni, came up with the idea of doing a trail ride. 

As with so many families, the disease touched more members, and now the team is also dedicated to their Aunt Gloria who has fought both colon and breast cancer.

Through the hard work and dedication of this group of individuals, Ride to Survive, an informal trail ride, encourages registered participants to decorate themselves and their horses. They receive a T-Shirt and goodie bag, decorate a sash, and ride in honor or memory of a loved one. Participants enjoy a lunch and win prizes. 

Those interested should stop and say hello to Team JJ – I Dream of Jeanie at this year’s ACS Relay for Life, August 2 and 3 at Cascades Park Jackson, Mich. Also mark your calendar for the 2020 Ride to Survive to be held the first Saturday in June.

Karla, Trey and Andrew Richmond and Kim Powers

Ride to survive

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