Four years back, a golf tournament was an entirely new venture for Windridge Therapeutic Equestrian Center of East Texas.
Nowadays, the fundraiser’s ‘Par for the Horse’ – as the facility’s staffers and volunteers help children and adults with medical and mental diagnoses gain life skills and independence, their golf buddies are bringing a positive spotlight and essential funds into the program.
“It’s been a good fundraiser for us, something totally different,” according to Celia Bower, a physical therapist and executive director at the facility. “We’re trying to expand the people that we reach, the people who hear about Windridge.
“Chances are they know somebody who can benefit from our services or know somebody who would like to come out and volunteer or someone who would like to support a nonprofit.”
Windridge provides therapeutic riding as well as physical therapy services utilizing a horse.
“Adaptive riding teaches skills in a very motivating environment for therapy,” Bower noted. “When a person is sitting on a horse at a walk, the movement simulates the way our bodies move when we walk on the ground.”
The golf tournament’s set for 9 a.m. Friday, May 15, with Early Bird Registration wrapping up April 12. (Register now via https://tinyurl.com/parforthehorse2026)
“They can actually register the day-of,” Bower noted. “We just try to get teams registered ahead of time so we can plan ahead, but it’s really open and they can sign up day-of.”
Already, this year’s tournament will include a first-time golfer as well as some serious contenders. It’s the fourth year the tournament has been hosted at Tempest Golf Club off Hwy. 135.
“The golfers love golfing at Tempest. We try to make it a really fun experience for everybody,” Bower said. For example, “We have an air cannon ball launcher, which is totally fun. It shoots the ball so, so far. Then they get to use that to play from.
There’s also the annual putt-off, complete with a prize from Dick’s Sporting Goods.
“Everybody circles around the hole, and they all hit a ball. You see all these golf balls heading for the hole at once,” Bower said. “We feed them. We have prizes. It’s just a really great time.”
A fun time, low pressure, that still has a significant impact for the center. Last year saw 22 teams participate.
“We have been building it. We’re trying to get more teams and sponsorships,” Bower added. “We’re shooting for 30 but would love more,” primed for as many as 36.
“It’s a great day and a beautiful course.”
