Joaquin Hemstreet, a Carousel Ranch rider, enjoys his lesson at the new property.

This year's Day at the Races event, to be held on April 23, is all the more special, as it marks Carousel Ranch's first fundraising event to be held on their own property in Agua Dulce.

For those who have not had a chance to visit the new ranch, this is a perfect opportunity to bring family and friends for a fun-filled event, featuring the excitement of horseracing along with the fun of a country fair. Set in the Ranch's Old West atmosphere, it will be a day of mock horseracing games, complete with jockeys ranging from the children of Carousel Ranch to prominent members of the community.

While the horses might not travel quickly, the amusement will be full-force, as riders perform silly tasks in their attempts to take first place. There will be nine fun-filled races and you can bet on your favorite horse or jockey to win fabulous prizes. Carnival games, a petting zoo, old-fashioned photos, a stick pony parade and more, will offer hours of entertainment - all inside Carousel Ranch's very own Western Town, complete with a saloon, jailhouse, general store and Chuck Wagon.

Tickets are reasonably priced and include lunch: $30 for adults and $15 for children 12 and under. Guests are encouraged to raise funds for the program by collecting donations/sponsorships, earning prizes based on the amount raised. Prizes include event tickets and t-shirts, movie passes, Carousel Ranch jackets, and Clubhouse/Turf Club passes to the racetrack (Santa Anita or Hollywood Park) and more.

Co-Founder and Director Becky Graham describes this year's Races event as "all the more special, because we are finally in our own home. It has been such a huge issue for so many years; it's nice to be able to have the community come out to see where their support has gotten us. Without the help of so many people, and of course, Mission Valley Bank, who put their faith in us to make it all possible, we wouldn't be here today."

Carousel Ranch's new home includes an authentic Western town.

Graham went on to say that "Day at the Races is perfect for the entire family - full of excitement, laughs and plenty of entertainment!" She describes the event as "something that is totally unique; an event you just can't find anywhere else."

Dana Sachs, 19, born with no arms and only one full length leg, describes how Carousel Ranch has changed her life for the better. "As I roll through life I will always look back on my time at Carousel Ranch with fondest memories. Riding horses is not only fun, it helps build my confidence and has helped pick me up when I am down. I think I was born to ride because nothing beats the feeling of getting out of my chair, being high up in the horse, having the wind in my face, walking on trails and being where I could never go in my chair. Riding horses has strengthened my body, helped my balance and improved my coordination. I can focus on tasks, conquer fears, look ahead and concentrate on success."

Carousel Ranch is about hope. It is about giving each and every child, regardless of their disabilities, the chance to succeed - isn't that what we all want for our children?


To become a sponsor, purchase tickets or to receive more information about Day at the Races, contact Carousel Ranch at 268-8010 or visit their website at www.carouselranch.org. The event will be held at Carousel Ranch, located at 34289 Rocking Horse Road in Agua Dulce.