July 22, 2009 – It was one more step along the way to realizing a dream of raising funds to fight cancer when the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) teamed up with Rein In Cancer. Raffle tickets for a 2007 AQHA filly, Shortys Dream, were offered for sale, with the drawing held during the 2009 NRHA Derby in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Oregon’s Shelle Gibbs was the lucky winner of the pretty filly and the raffle raised more than $11,000.
Rein In Cancer President Cheryl Magoteaux was quick to recognize all those who had a part in the promotion. “A special thanks goes to everyone who contributed to this very successful fund-raiser. We especially appreciate Todd Barden and Christa Morris of the NRHA for all the work they did and, of course, the National Reining Horse Association for hosting and showcasing the raffle.” Magoteaux continued, “This particular fund-raiser began when Bill Masterson donated the filly to Shorty Koger. Shorty, who most people know as the owner of Shorty’s Hattery in Oklahoma City, has worked for years to recognize her dream of raising money in memory of her sister, Shirley Bowman, who died of cancer. This was a very big step in continuing the cause and we sincerely thank everyone who helped in some way or bought a ticket.”
Magoteaux also cited ABC Halters for donating a customized halter with pink ostrich accents to the winner and Shorty’s Hattery for donating a 100X hat that was given away in conjunction with the raffle. The Rafter T Ranch of Stephenville, Texas provided 90 days of training for Shortys Dream. The family-owned and operated ranch was established by cutting horse trainer Troy Davis, his wife Barbara, and children Rebecca and Ron.
Oklahoma-based Rein In Cancer is an equine industry 501 c3 Corporation created by Shorty Koger, Tracie Anderson, and Cheryl Magoteaux to help fight all types of cancer. Since its inception in 2007, Rein In Cancer has organized dozens of fundraisers at shows across the country, from local shows to such prestigious events as the National Reining Horse Association Futurity and Derby, National Reined Cow Horse Association Snaffle Bit Futurity and American Quarter Horse Association World Championship Show. The contributions raised over the years have funded the Shirley Bowman Nutrition Center at the University of Oklahoma Cancer Institute, along with supporting other projects to benefit people with cancer.
Incorporated in 1966, the National Reining Horse Association is the governing body of the sport of Reining. NRHA, with its International Headquarters in Oklahoma City, is responsible for promoting the sport of Reining and working to ensure the highest standards of competition. To learn more about the NRHA, its programs, and its family of corporate partners, visit www.NRHA.com.