Horse-racing themed fundraiser gives boost to equine assisted learning

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Narrow Gate Horse Ranch's annual Derby Ball fundraiser packed the house at The Experience at the Kokomo Country Club on May 4. Ladies and gentlemen donned their fanciest clothes and even fancier hats to enjoy an evening of horse racing, auctions, and fellowship.

The attendees also brought their checkbooks, as the fundraiser successfully surpassed its $100,000 goal on the evening.

The event's festivities began with a welcome from Narrow Gate founder Susan Zody and a recap of the organization's successes over the previous year.

Zody was followed by testimonials, a poetry reading, and a video presentation explaining more of Narrow Gate's mission.

It then was time for the best hat competition. In the spirit of the Kentucky Derby's celebration of fashionable and sometimes outlandish haberdashery, the Derby Ball's parade of chapeaus, Stetsons, and stovepipes elicited hoots and cheers from the crowd as a winning entrant was chosen.

While not taking the top prize, one elaborate headdress worn by Tammy Mohr stole the show. The towering tam barely held itself together as Mohr struggled to balance the topiary-filled loving cup atop her head.

Dinner catered by Main Occasions followed the contest, and then it was time for the running of the Kentucky Derby. Attendees "wagered" on the winning horses by donating on behalf of their favorites. The largest donation on the winning horse took home a trophy.

Trophies also were handed out for top contributors and the highest bidders on silent auction baskets that were displayed outside the dining hall.

Narrow Gate Horse Ranch provides free equine assisted learning to at-risk youth in the Howard County area, helping children process the traumas and challenges in their lives in a supportive, faith-centered environment.

For additional information, visit www.narrowgatehorseranch.com.