Reining Strength’s Derby Day Party: A Celebration of Hope, Horses, and Community
Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship is gearing up once again to bring the magic of the Kentucky Derby to Fort Bend County with its Derby Day Party, an event that blends Southern charm with heartfelt philanthropy. On Saturday, May 3, from 3:30 to 7:30 PM, the Houston Marriott Sugar Land will transform into a lively Derby celebration, filled with laughter, generosity, and the unshakable spirit of a community that believes in the power of horses to heal.
Guests will sip on mint juleps, enjoy a seated dinner, and cheer on their favorite thoroughbreds during a live stream of the iconic horse race. The festivities will also include an exciting auction, interactive games, and friendly competitions, such as the ever-popular hat contest and boots-and-bowties contest. But beyond the pageantry, the event’s true purpose is to support Reining Strength’s mission: providing equine-assisted therapy to individuals with physical, cognitive, social, and emotional needs.
A Party with Purpose: Kicking Off the Excitement
The excitement begins long before the big day. On Wednesday, February 12, 2025, supporters gathered for Party with a Purpose at Reining Strength’s Richmond, TX facility. Attendees shared drinks, light bites, and camaraderie while participating in the annual Derby Hat Auction. The online auction, running from February 3 through 12, featured stunning Derby hats crafted by the Fort Bend Junior Service League. Guests bid enthusiastically, knowing that their purchases would not only complete their Derby Day attire but also support life-changing programs at Reining Strength. Contributions came in the form of $35 gift cards, bottles of whiskey, and wine valued at $40 or more, all fueling the fundraising efforts.
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The Kentucky Derby: A Timeless Tradition
Since its first race in 1875, the Kentucky Derby has remained one of the most prestigious horse races in the world, known as "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports." Steeped in rich traditions, from the singing of My Old Kentucky Home to the extravagant hats that have become synonymous with Derby fashion, the event captivates audiences year after year. This year’s race will once again bring together elite thoroughbreds, top trainers, and devoted fans for an unforgettable spectacle.
Much like the Derby's enduring legacy, Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship harnesses the power of horses to create lasting impacts. Just as thoroughbreds train for excellence, individuals at Reining Strength engage in equine-assisted therapy to build strength, confidence, and independence. The Derby Day Party celebrates these parallels, using the spirit of the race as a platform to support transformative equine therapy programs. The event’s deep connection to the Derby traditions—including the hat contest and themed festivities—creates a meaningful bridge between horse racing’s rich history and the life-changing work done at Reining Strength everyday.
Reining Strength: Changing Lives Through Horses
Founded in 2014, Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship has become a beacon of hope for individuals in Fort Bend County and the greater West Houston area. As a Premier Accredited Center through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.), Reining Strength provides equine-assisted services to children and adults aged two and up who have physical, cognitive, social, or emotional needs. Their facility, located at 7126 FM 359 Road in Richmond, Texas, offers both group and private riding lessons taught by certified PATH Intl. instructors.
Supporters at the 2024 Derby Day Party benefiting Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship. (Source: Reining Strength)Therapeutic horsemanship at Reining Strength focuses on teaching riding skills while incorporating therapeutic benefits. The rhythmic movement of horses mimics the human gait, providing unique neuromuscular stimulation that can improve strength, coordination, and range of motion. Beyond riding, participants engage in horse care activities such as brushing and grooming, which can enhance joint mobility and have a calming effect.
Individuals with various diagnoses, including anxiety, autism spectrum disorders, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and PTSD, have benefited from Reining Strength's programs. The organization is committed to helping people realize their potential through customized equine-assisted services, fostering physical, psychological, and social benefits that contribute to overall well-being.
In addition to riding lessons, Reining Strength offers an Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) program. This experiential learning approach promotes the development of life skills related to behavior, personal growth, emotional regulation, and professional pursuits like leadership and team building. EAL sessions are tailored to individual goals and involve collaboration with PATH Intl. credentialed staff members.
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Each year, the Derby Day Party serves as a lifeline for these programs. The funds raised directly impact the lives of children and adults who rely on Reining Strength’s services for improved mobility, confidence, and independence. In 2024, the event raised an astounding $360,000, a heartfelt reflection of the community’s generosity and their deep belief in Reining Strength’s mission.
An Evening of Joy, Generosity, and Giving Back
More than just a watch party, the Derby Day Party is a celebration of compassion and community. Guests will have the opportunity to stroll down Reining Strength’s Memory Lane, reflecting on the impact of a decade of service. The evening will be filled with excitement, from friendly fashion competitions to thrilling auction moments, all in the name of a cause that changes lives.
For those eager to be part of this meaningful event, opportunities to attend, sponsor, or donate are available on Reining Strength’s official website at reiningstrength.org. With every ticket purchased and every bid placed, the community helps ensure that equine-assisted therapy remains accessible to those who need it most. As the countdown to Derby Day begins, anticipation builds—not just for the race, but for the difference this event will continue to make in the lives of so many.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
