The Ride for the Kids Showdeo, put on by Tony Coleman with the help of many Tonkawa locals and held at the Tonkawa Sale Barn on October 5, was a great opportunity for entertainment and giving back to the community. While the number of contestants was small for the showdeo, audience attendance was great. Many audience members from children to seniors decided they wanted to give it a try and even competed on other contestants’ horses.The whole event was a spotlight on what it feels like to be a member of the Tonkawa community, kindness, respect, and laughter filled the arena as these contestants rode for the benefit of children in the area.If you are unfamiliar with the showdeo and how they do things, the only notable difference between this rodeo and others in the area has to do with why it’s being held. Of course, like any rodeo in the area, this show was an opportunity for riders to gain experience and show off their hard earned talents, but unlike any rodeos around, all profits are going directly back to those in need. Even when it comes to the entry fee, the Ride for Kids Showdeo differs from others. Instead of a normal cash entry fee, all those who competed in this brought a toy or game of at least $15 to be entered. These toys and games will then go back to the children of struggling families in the area. The classes for the showdeo were barrel racing, poles, stake racing, flag racing, sand surfing, and rescue racing. Each class was divided into three age groups with 8 and under, 17 and over, and 60 and over.On top of the toy and game entry, they also held a silent auction. For the silent auction, all proceeds will go to food baskets and toys for area families in need. Throughout the event, those who set this up were able to raise around $1,200 for the children of the community. Now, Mr. Coleman will get in touch with the schools and get information on any children or families that are struggling during the upcoming holiday season. Once he gets into contact with these families he will see what they need the most and help them receive it. From food baskets and winter coats to toys and games. These will be given to these families on December 22.This showdeo was not ...
