Sarah Self, Heather Sedillo and Liz Wilcox
Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship claimed the winner’s circle at their Derby Day Party with the help of Run for the Roses Sponsor Houston Methodist! This year’s 12th annual fundraiser was held on Saturday, May 2, 2026, raising over $385,000 and welcoming over 450 guests.
Sarah Brhlik and Laura Ellis
Guests donned an award-winning trifecta of Boots, Bowties and Derby Hats to compete in the annual boots and bowties contest for the gentleman and hat contest for the ladies. Community Judges Precinct One Constable Chad Norvell, Fulshear Mayor Don McCoy, Judge Christopher Morales, the Fort Bend Chamber’s Melissa Toon, Ammie Blahuta with the George Foundation, Amanda Chow with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo’s Special Children’s Committee, and Suzanne Haboush with GFL judged a blanket finish in both contests and fun was had by all. Supporters were also provided with silent and live auctions, a his and her raffle, photo booths, games, seated dinner and a live-stream of the 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby.
Robert and Lisa Polk
Guests were reminded of Reining Strength’s mission to serve the community through equine assisted services with a special video featuring The Laviola Family. “The Laviola Family’s story of hope, positivity through adversity and the impact of horses on someone’s everyday life is something that speaks to all. We are thankful to have them be a champion for Reining Strength and are grateful that their story and Reining Strength’s mission resonated with our Derby Day supporters.” Heather Hernandez Sedillo, Executive Director.
Tom and Peggy Hernandez
Derby Day provides the funds needed to provide equine assisted services to individuals with physical, cognitive, social, and emotional needs. Reining Strength is Accredited through PATH International (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship, Intl.).
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Fran Zwick and Janice Vyoral
Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship is a 501(c)3 organization created in 2014 with a mission of partnering with horses to help people realize their individual potential through customized equine-assisted activities and therapies. Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship is a Premier Accredited Center through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship, International (PATH Intl.)