Generous donation from 2nd Stony Hill Gymkhana

(Written by Emily Southwood) For the second year, Mrs. Chantal Bujold and Mr. Robert Ykema hosted a lively Gymkhana on the Beaver Road and donated the proceeds from their event to charity. The Gymkhana, with horseback events such as barrel racing, a dash for cash, and flag races, brought some 200 people to Stony Hill to partake in the fun. Following the late June event, the president of the Women’s Auxiliary of the Barrie Memorial Hospital, Mrs. Thérèse Marchand, was very pleased to receive a donation in the amount of $1,050. Robert Ykema explains the motivation behind hosting the Gymkhana, which last year donated $665 to the Betty Riel foundation: “Our family wants to hold a sporting event, and if it works well, we want to keep the proceeds in the community. We can’t think of two organizations that will better use the funds than The Betty Riel Foundation and The Women’s Auxiliary.” The spirit of giving was exemplified by the $5 donations collected at the Friday evening 4D Barrel Race, as well by those working the event who gave up their salary to add to the charitable donation. Mr. Ykema proudly explained that the accomplishment of the fundraiser would not have been possible without the help of numerous volunteers, family members and friends, in addition to the over 40 sponsors who contributed to the success of the activity. Due to the extremely hot weather, some of the activities were cut short to ensure horse and rider’s well being. In addition to competitions on horseback, Gymkhana-goes were also entertained by live music and karaoke as part of the fun. After two successful events, Stony Hill plans to continue the family tradition of sportsmanship and fundraising next year.