[KHTS] – The seventh annual Hogs and Horses Ride For Our Troops fundraiser to benefit local veterans is returning to Acton on May 17, officials announced Friday.

The fundraiser begins with a charity motorcycle and trail ride and is followed by a barbecue lunch at the Vincent Hill Station Restaurant and Saloon with live music by Runaway Train, vendors, an auction and a raffle.  

“One of our family members had a son in the military, so we decided we need to support our veterans,” said Joe Probst, president of Hogs and Horses. “So we started this group, which is all volunteers… Everybody that works on this ride donates their time.”

The goal of the fundraiser is to have a fun afternoon raising awareness and money for veterans while showing support and respect for U.S. troops, event officials said.

All proceeds from the event go to the Antelope Valley Veterans Outreach Committee through the Grace Resource Center, which provides food, clothing, medical care, counseling, job placement and more for veterans in need of basic services, Probst said.

“We decided we should keep the money local,” he said. “They do four ‘stand-downs’ a year, where all the veterans are invited to get free medical care, dental checks… a whole slew of clothing and so forth. Our donations that we do every year basically finance the stand-downs.”

Last year’s ride raised approximately $12,500, and Probst’s goal for this year’s event is $15,000. Vendor spots are still available, and private and corporate sponsors are needed in addition to participants.

Registration is scheduled to begin at 8 a.m., with participants beginning the ride at 10 a.m., at Vincent Hill Station Restaurant and Saloon located at 553 W. Sierra Highway in Acton.

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