Ranch Jamboree Raises Money for the Disabled

They were whooping it up at Edward (Pete) Peter’s Moorpark ranch on Sunday in fine cowboy fashion in an effort to raise money for disabled horse enthusiasts.

Hundreds of people, many dressed in tight-fitting jeans with big belt buckles, Western-style shirts and cowboy boots, danced to country music and ate barbecue while their children took pony rides and watched clowns twist balloons into funny shapes.

The jamboree raised about $5,000 for the Handicapped Equestrian Learning Program, a project started by Peters on his horse ranch in 1982.

For three hours every Saturday, Peters instructs as many as 100 mentally and physically disabled children and adults from all over the county and beyond.

Its program is appreciated by its participants and their parents.

“I love the horses,” said Jeff Watlington, 44, of Ventura, who was born with Down’s syndrome.

His father, Chuck Watlington, said Jeff’s equestrian hobby has helped him tremendously.

“It’s good for his morale and for building self-esteem,” he said. “When Jeff first came here he didn’t know how to mount a horse.” Now he’s won numerous medals.

He said Peters has been a boon to all of those attending Sunday. “It’s amazing what he has done for them.”

Laura Cox has only one arm and one leg, but that hasn’t kept her from competing on horseback.

“Riding horses is fun,” the 9-year-old from Simi Valley said. “It’s like a ride at Disneyland.”

Her mom, Judy Cox, is proud of the progress Laura has made.

“She’s made a lot of friends through the program, and it has increased her coordination too,” she said. “It’s made a big difference in her life.”

Several parents went to Sunday’s event to see how their children might benefit from the equestrian program.

“I think it would be wonderful for Matt,” said Therese Williams, whose 7-year-old son Matt has Down’s syndrome. “He is going to ride a horse today for the first time.”

A very excited Matt was dressed up with a cowboy hat and a red bandanna around his neck. “I want to see the horses,” he said.