Special Rodeo In Waimanalo

Therapeutic Horsemanship of Hawaii will host its Special Keiki Rodeo May 19 at Waimanalo polo field, where food, pony rides, crafts, a petting zoo, keiki games, face painting and more will tempt families away from the rodeo action itself.

The ninth annual fundraiser starts at 10 a.m. with the riders showing the horse-manship skills they’ve learned on their special horses, ranging from classic rodeo events like barrel racing and pole bending to simple skills and events. Riders also are coming from the nonprofit’s programs on the Big Island.

Admission to the event is free, but sponsorships ranging from $50 to $1,000 are welcome. Proceeds will help Therapeutic Horsemanship continue its mission of riding instruction to improve the minds and bodies of disabled and able riders via the unconditional love of the animals.

Program fees alone do not cover the cost of care for the horses and other operating expenses.

For more information, call executive director Dana Vennen at 342-9036 or go to thhwaimanalo.org.