Photo by Jeremy Villar
The Boots and Black Tie Gala is back for its 10th year.
After missing the last two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event, which serves as a fundraiser for Special Equestrians, returns this year. It will take place Saturday, June 18, from 6 to 10 p.m. at Windwood Equestrian at 4848 Shelby County 11 in Pelham.
The evening will begin with a cocktail hour featuring a riding exhibition by two Special Equestrian riders. B&A Warehouse will cook dinner on site, and guests can dance, listen to live music and partcipate in a silent auction and live auction. A tribute will also be made to Founder Rita Mendel, who passed away last year.
“We go out to premier equestrian facilities and turn their arena into a dining room,” said Special Equestrian Executive Director Kathi Claybrook. "Guests can wear their boots and be comfortable but also get dressed up cocktail-style. Something about being in their boots, they are more relaxed and have fun.”
The past several events have taken place at Windwood Equestrian, which Claybrook said is a super-nice facility and also a wedding venue.
Special Equestrians began in 1985 at the stables at Oak Mountain State Park and moved to the campus of Indian Springs School in 1993. The program serves participants of all ages who have special needs, including autism, cerebral palsy and physical disabilities. It has grown over the years and serves around 45 riders each week.
“It’s really beneficial,” Claybrook said. “Those with issues such as cerebral palsy or gait problems can sit on the horses and improve their balance and gait, and it also stimulates nerves and builds muscle. It’s pretty incredible what can happen on a horse.”
No one is turned away for financial reasons, and Special Equestrians has scholarships available. The primary group of participants come from Shelby and Jefferson counties, but some come from Tuscaloosa and Blount counties.
Tickets for the Boots and Black Tie Gala start at $150 and can be purchased at specialequest.org/events.