The Fred Rathbun Memorial Horse Show

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In 1980, Fred and  Julie Rathbun began working with the Equestrian Special Olympics at a  time when there were only 25 Olympic Participants. Fred led the horses  while Julie rode behind each participant to be sure they stayed safe and  didn't fall off the horse. It was their efforts that led to The Western  Saddle Club establishing a unique relationship with the City of Phoenix  to produce the Unique Horse Show to serve the Special Needs community.  WSC and Fred and Julie Rathbun worked with the group each year until  2006 when Fred passed away. Inspired to continue the footprint that Fred  and Julie started with the Special Olympics since that time, the Unique  Horse Show was respectfully renamed The Fred Rathbun Memorial Horse  Show.  

For a number of  years, The Western Saddle Club and the City of Phoenix co-sponsored the  event.  Within the last decade the City of Phoenix was impacted by budget  constraints and decided they could no longer participate as a  co-sponsor of the event.  At that time, The Western Saddle Club made the  decision to continue sponsoring the event and now holds the financial  responsibility to put the show on.  The city continues to provide support  with program advice, historic data and shows up on the day of the event  on their own personal time.  

Sponsors are needed  to ensure that The Fred Rathbun Memorial Horse Show is able to live on  in Fred's legacy. We are working constantly to find companies,  individuals and families that are able to help with donations to assist  with the approximate $3,000 budget it takes for participant awards,  materials and meals to keep this event going.  

Providing financial donations will get each sponsor printed recognition in the event program as well as several announcements during the actual show.  and  drawing 

Volunteers from all over the community are involved and are also welcome.       

Check the event calendar for date changes!  The 2023 Fred Rathbun Memorial Horse Show is March 4. 

Leave a message at (602) 861-9436 with any questions of if you are interested in being a sponsor or volunteer.