It’s time to sign up and saddle up for the fifth annual special needs trail ride hosted by the Covington Cowgirls Drill Team.

The ride is set for Fri., Nov. 11 in the Geneva State Forest.

“Sign-in is at 8 a.m.,” said Tricia Courson, drill team director. “Then we hit the trail at 9 a.m., and there is also an afternoon trail ride.”

To reach the Geneva State Forest from Andalusia turn onto Highway 52 in Opp and then turn right onto Highway 54. Take another right after crossing the bridge and follow the signs to the lake or take U. S. Highway 331 to Bethel Church Road.

The drill team suggests a donation of $10 per person for participation in the ride. There are door prizes for the first 20 who sign up to participate as well as more giveaways during the trail ride. Riders also enjoy a cookout lunch provided by the drill team.

“Fall is a wonderful time of the year for a ride,” Courson said, “and the state forest is a beautiful setting.”

Courson said past trail rides not only raised money for a worthy cause but were also a lot of fun, and the group expects that to be the case this year.

Donations support special needs children in Covington County and past trail rides were successful thanks to community support Courson said. The group also hosts a St. Jude’s Trail ride in the spring each year

“Thanks to the the trail rides, we made donations that helped local special needs classes,” Courson said. “With the exception of the St. Jude’s trail ride, the proceeds from everything we do stay in Covington County.”

Even if a donor does not wish to participate in the trail ride, the drill team accepts donations for special needs.

For more information or to make a donation, call Donna Jones at 334-493-6730 or 493-4138. Those interested can also contact Tricia Courson at 334-222-8079 or any drill team member.

“This is going to be another great trail ride,” Courson said, “and we invite everyone to come out for a day of fun that supports a great cause.”