Horses Took Over Grand Strand Beaches For The 40th Annual American Heart Association Beach Ride

The American Heart Association is a national, voluntary health organization that was founded in 1924. From humble beginnings, the AHA has grown into the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. A shared focus on cardiovascular health unites more than 33 million volunteers and supporters as well as more than 3,400 employees. Heart disease is the No. 1 killer worldwide, and stroke ranks second globally. Even when those conditions don’t result in death, they cause disability and diminish quality of life. The AHA wants to see a world free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.

THE HISTORY OF THE BEACH RIDE

Jack Monroe organized the first Beach Ride in 1981. That first ride attracted 20 riders, who vowed to make to make the ride an annual charity event, and appointed Jack the official chairperson. Sadly, Jack passed away in 2018 but his legacy and the Beach Ride continue. Today, the Beach Ride is the largest trail ride on the beaches of South Carolina attracting over 2,000 participants annually. Since its inception the Beach Ride has helped fund over $6 million of research and educational projects for the American Heart Association. Jack’s many years of leadership in the community and for the American Heart Association is now recognized with the Jack Monroe Service Award.

40TH ANNUAL AHA BEACH RIDE

The 40th Annual American Heart Association Beach Ride took place November 3rd -7th at Lakewood Camping Resort. The campground is oceanfront and offers full hook up sites. Attendees camped on-site with their horses and rode right out of the campground onto the beach.

The five-day event includes vendors, a parade, karaoke, nightly entertainment, auction and concludes with a celebratory 20-mile beach ride on the beautiful beaches of Myrtle Beach. This is the only time of year horses are allowed on the beach in Myrtle Beach city limits.

The event is a fundraiser for the American Heart Association and raised almost $400,000 last year to fight cardiovascular disease and stroke. The AHA's mission was to raise half a million dollars in their 40th year and was successful by surpassing their goal and raising over $509,000.

This ride is so much more than just a ride on the Beach. Check out how horses have helped our riders get healthy https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-bond-for-life-pets/horses-have-heart/horses-helped-her-get-healthier.