Blackfoot Crossing cancer event returns

By Tyler Lowey, Times Reporter

A passion for riding horses and helping people with cancer-related illnesses has turned into an annual marquee event in Siksika Nation.
The third annual Blackfoot Crossing Cancer Event is set to take place Aug. 26 on the banks of the Bow River, and spots are filling up quickly.
While there isn’t a limit for people bringing their own horses or those who wish to make the walk on their own feet, the event only services three confirmed wagons up to this point, each housing eight to 10 people.
The event was started by Rhonda Leger, a local woman who has been breast cancer-free for 12 years. She combined her love of horseback riding and the urge to help others in forming this event that has raised over $4,200 for the Alberta Cancer Foundation in its first two years of existence.
“Rhonda wanted to hold a ride similar to the one they do up in Innisfail,” said event treasurer Stephanie Miller. “It’s a great ride and a great way to support those affected by cancer.”
The Innisfail ride goes Sept. 17 at the Daines Rodeo Ranch and will be celebrating the 30th anniversary of the ride.
Registration for the local event opens at 9 a.m., with the ride commencing sometime after 10 a.m. The group will head down to the Bow River in Siksika Nation, just west of the Blackfoot Crossing museum, for a prayer to start the day. The start location of the ride marks the same spot that Treaty 7 was signed in 1877. The treaty was signed between Queen Victoria and members of the Blackfoot and First Nation band members.
‘That spot is a focal point in our history and on this land, and we are thankful that the people of Siksika allow us to use it for this ride,” said Miller.
It is at that same location where a plaque was donated to commemorate the signing. Also donated two years ago was a cherry tree, where participants tie a ribbon onto its branches as a way to remember those who have passed away due to cancer or currently live with cancer in their bodies. This year, a second cherry tree has been donated and put alongside the original tree.
Shortly after the prayer and ribbon tying, the ride will take off and last for two and a half hours.
Upon return, there will be a silent auction and 50-50 draw, with all proceeds going to the Alberta Cancer Foundation.
For those riding, lunch will be provided after the walk and ride, and there will be rest stops along the way for the horses as well.
People are encouraged to sign up each day leading up to the event. There is a $25 registration fee for either the wagon ride or solo ride on a provided horse. Family rates are available, and for anyone interested in just the meal, each ticket is sold for $10.
For more information and to reserve a spot in the event, Miller encourages locals to check out the Blackfoot Crossing Cancer Event Facebook page for more details.