HOOD RIVER — The Hood River Saddle Club (HRSC) at 4384 Belmont Drive is celebrating its 80th anniversary on Aug. 2.
Founded in 1945 by a group of families who “wanted to ride together,” the club has since grown to around 100 families, added a clubhouse and an announcer’s booth, built a new arena and fence, and introduced clinics to welcome riders from around the northwest this past year, said HRSC Event Chair Christina McGhee.
The anniversary party will be held on Aug. 2 from 5-7 p.m. The newly formed Drill Team will perform “a choreographed ‘dance-like’ show on horseback” as a “nod to our past, as the club used to do a grand entry with flags at our rodeos,” said McGhee. The public is welcome to watch the presentations and enjoy birthday cake.
New members are always welcome, and you don’t need a horse to join. Pictured is clubmember Greta Hein.
Contributed photo
“Reaching our 80th year is a milestone that reflects the dedication and passion of our members and supporters,” said Ruth Chausse and Lorna Paddock, co-presidents of HRSC, in an email to Columbia Gorge News. “Our club’s legacy is built on shared values of community, education, and a profound respect for horses.”
HRSC is a nonprofit and relies on member’s dues, facility rentals, events, and fundraiser to maintain and operate the facilities and provide a space for riders and horses.
“Donations are always welcome as are new members,” McGhee said. “We are a very inclusive, welcoming group, open to any level and discipline of rider. You don’t even need a horse to be a member.”
Two projects the club is currently fundraising for is a “facelift” for the clubhouse, and a new roof and siding for the announcer’s booth at the arena to keep the building standing.
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