RIDGEWAY – More than 150 runners and walkers turned out Sunday, Oct. 18, for Hoof and Paw’s inaugural Tails on Trails 5K at The Farm at Ridgeway, helping raise approximately $22,000 for its animal welfare mission Everybody and their dogs were there to watch.
Kathy Faulk, the organization’s president, said the first-time event drew an estimated 200 people overall. She credited the combined efforts of participants, sponsors, members and volunteers for the fundraiser’s success.
“We are so delighted with the event and so thankful for our friends,” Faulk said.
The 3.1-mile course through The Farm at Ridgeway’s private woods included dirt lanes, paved stretches and a covered wooden bridge, providing a countryside setting for the afternoon run and walk.
Proceeds will help fund spay-and-neuter surgeries, heartworm treatments for dogs in shelters and rescues, and emergency medical care for animals. The money will also support a program providing pet food to senior citizen pet owners in Fairfield, Richland and Kershaw counties.
Another portion of funds raised will help Hoof and Paw care for horses in need, including those recovering from starvation.
“It’s very expensive to rehabilitate a horse,” Faulk said. “Takes a lot of time and a lot of money.”
Major supporters included Indigo Design Build, Joyce Martin Hill, First Horizon Bank, and Larry Sharpe, who donated use of The Farm at Ridgeway for the event.
Hoof and Paw members and additional volunteers organized and staffed the fundraiser, with assistance from Strictly Running.
Faulk said she was grateful for the support that made the organization’s first race possible.
“We are so grateful for the opportunity to do this,” she said. “It was a wonderful day for this wonderful event.”
