For the eighth year, the Covington Cowgirls Drill Team is saddling up for the St. Jude’s Trail Ride set for Sat., March 19, beginning at 9 a.m. at Geneva State Forest Lake.

“We will meet at the lake and sign up,” said Tricia Courson, drill team director. “Then, we head out for the morning ride.”

Participants have the option of riding in the morning or afternoon or both times.

A donation of $10 per person is suggested for participation in the ride. Riders return to the camp for lunch and then the afternoon trail ride begins at 1 p.m.

“The first 20 to sign up get a T-shirt and a gift bag,” Courson said. “We will also have some door prizes along the way on the trail ride.”

Riders need to bring a sack lunch. The drill team will provide a cookout at supper.

“Riders come back to camp for supper and a great time of fellowship,” Courson said. “This is a good event for families, and we also invite people to join us after the ride for the cookout. We just ask that they make a donation for St. Jude’s.”

This is a big fundraiser for the drill team and usually brings out more than 200 riders Courson said. All of the donations go to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

“In the past, trail rides raised an average of $1,500 to as much as $2,500 for St. Jude’s,” she said.

Those who want to support this event but are not interested in being part of the trail ride can make donations by contacting Courson or other drill team members.

“Any donations to help St. Jude’s are welcomed,” Courson said.

The drill team also hosts a Veterans’ Day Trail Ride in the fall to benefit local special needs classes.

“The proceeds from everything we do stay right here in Covington County with the exception of the St. Jude’s Trail Ride,” Courson said. “We have such wonderful community support for our events,” she said. “That allows us to help not only St. Jude’s, but also other worthwhile causes.”

“Spring is a beautiful time of year for a ride in the forest, and we have amazing forests here in South Alabama,” Courson said. “I know the day is going to be fun for everyone who joins us, and they will be supporting a worthwhile cause as well. “

To get to the location from Andalusia, go to Opp and take Highway 52 to Highway 54. After making the turn onto Highway 54, travel to the bridge and take the first dirt road to the right after crossing the bridge. Then go about two miles to Lake Road located on the right.

For more information or to make a donation, contact Courson at 334-222-8079, Donna Jones at 334-493-6730 or Donna Moseley at 334-493-4138.