Meet the Pony Express Riders of Iowa
We’re excited to welcome the Pony Express Riders of Iowa as our Des Moines, Iowa Ritchie Charity group! At each Walkabout Tour, Clinton and tour featured sponsor Ritchie Industries team up to select a local nonprofit organization to run the Ritchie Charity Ball Toss. All money raised throughout the ball toss goes straight to the non-profit organization.
The Pony Express Riders of Iowa have a long history of helping others. It all began in 1968 when three men from northwest Iowa wanted to raise money for charity, and they wanted to use horses to do it. They put together a relay ride that raised $12,000. Encouraged by this success, they decided to hold the relay again the following year calling on horsemen all across the state to take part. From this humble beginning, the Pony Express Riders of Iowa was born. The Pony Express Riders is now into its 52nd year of raising funds specifically for Easterseals Camp Sunnyside.
Throughout the course of its history, the Pony Express Riders of Iowa has raised close to 11 million dollars for Camp Sunnyside. This money ensures that Iowans with disabilities can have the opportunity to attend Camp and take part in activities that they might not otherwise have a chance to experience. Campers get the opportunity to make new friends, share experiences and gain independence.
Members of the Pony Express Riders of Iowa will have a booth at the tour and will be busy raising funds for their cause. Learn more about the Pony Express Riders of Iowa in this video.
