HILLIER, October 18, 2022 – Horse enthusiasts recently saddled up and harnessed the power of equestrian sport to raise money for Prince Edward County’s new hospital.

On September 17, 30 entrants enjoyed a fun-filled day while riding for a cause at Hadherway Farms Sandbanks Hunter Hack Show, and raised $3,200 that will support the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation’s (PECMHF) Back the Build campaign.

Equestrians ages six to 50 donned immaculate riding regalia and presented gleaming horses with intricately braided manes and tails, wowing spectators as they showed off their best skills. Later, these determined riders could be seen with beaming smiles and armfuls of fluttering multi-coloured ribbons.

It was a day of excitement and thrill for riders, indulgent pride for parents, and for the spectators an opportunity to support a worthy cause while having a fun time.

Proceeds from the horse show’s barbecue lunch, entry fees, and silent auction were donated to Back the Build. The team at Hadherway Farms thanks over a dozen local businesses who donated an item to the auction.

“We are incredibly grateful to farm owner, Sandra Karaz and everyone who participated in the horse show for Backing the Build for our new County hospital,” said Shannon Coull, executive director of the PECMH Foundation. “We are so fortunate to have the ongoing support and collaboration from this wonderful community who host events for the benefit of the foundation. We really appreciate being included in this year’s horse show at Hadherway Farms.”

PECMHF’s Back the Build Campaign aims to raise $6M over the next five years to help purchase the major medical equipment needed for the new hospital and incorporate environmental sustainability enhancements and smart technology into the design.

“Horse shows are exciting events. To watch a rider and a 1,000-pound animal work together is nothing short of amazing,” said Karaz. “We wanted to host a horse show that gave back to the community and contributing to Back the Build felt like an impactful way to support a cause that is near and dear to so many hearts. Working with animals can be unpredictable, so we feel reassured knowing there will always be a hospital close by, if ever any of our riders needed it.”



“This generosity from our local equestrian community demonstrates the importance of this project,” said Nancy Parks, Back the Build campaign chairperson. “Gifts from the collective efforts of many speak to the importance of community involvement and the impact it has on the quality of care for those residing in and visiting our County and who use our hospital. We are so thankful to Sandra and her team at Hadherway Farms, the local businesses who donated, and to everyone who came out to the horse show for their support and interest in the future of our hospital.”

“The coming together as an equestrian community and to pass onto the younger riders the satisfaction of riding for such a worthy cause is very heartwarming. The spirit of giving was evident in everyone’s ride,” said Karaz.

The Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation is a charitable organization dedicated to raising funds to advance health care for the patients of the hospital and the people of Prince Edward County.

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Pictured at Hadherway Farms from left: Shannon Coull, executive director of the PECMH Foundation; Barb Kennelly with Eve; Sandra Karaz, owner of Hadherway Farms; Gaye Attwood with Felix and Nancy Parks, Back the Build campaign chairperson. Also pictured is Pippa the dog.