Horsepower pushes local causes
Ford Club Marlborough members Murray Eyles, Barry Holmwood and Dave Packer, with Sharyn Cameron, Samara Lloyd and Levi the horse. Photo: William Woodworth.
A celebration for Ford fans with vehicles of all eras roaring into Blenheim will be benefitting local organisations supporting Marlborough causes.
The Ford Club Marlborough is hosting their second Henry Ford Birthday Show and Shine meet at Lansdowne Park on Sunday 28 July.
Ford owners from across the country gather for the event as last year saw more than 100 vehicles gather in Nelson for the yearly meet that alternates between Nelson and Marlborough clubs, honouring Henry Ford’s 150th birthday.
This year is also Ford Club Marlborough’s 20th anniversary, and organiser Murray Eyles hopes that they’ll be able to rev up support for two worthwhile local causes – Marlborough Riding for the Disabled, and the Marlborough Breast Cancer Support Group.
“We like to ensure that when we fundraise, the money goes directly back to local organisations that can make a local difference”, says Murray.
“The last time we hosted it was torrential rain with a last-minute venue change, and we still had 78 cars turn up.
“We’re hoping that better weather will mean an even better turnout of Ford’s from all eras”."
Sharyn Cameron, from the Marlborough Breast Cancer Support Group, says the funds raised will directly benefit the ongoing rehabilitation of local sufferers and survivors.
“Since setting up two and a half years ago, we’ve seen the positives of having such a Support Group, but also how cancers don’t discriminate and can hit anyone.
“As part of our support we run a Live Stronger fitness class to benefit, because exercise lots of benefits to our members through social interaction and targeted physical activities for recovery.
“This funding continues our ongoing efforts for our members, and we couldn’t be more thankful to the Ford Club and people driving these awesome looking cars from across the country."
Funding for the Marlborough Riding for the Disabled will be going towards the continued care of the 13 resident horses.
“Without funding their care, the RDA horses can’t do their jobs here as caring animals," Murray says.
“This funding will mean happier, healthier and safer horses for our riders and guides to work with”, says RDA manager Jo Lane.
“Sharon and I are really looking forward to heading along, checking out some awesome motor vehicles and giving a couple of prizes out to some personal favourites."
The Ford Club Marlborough are hosting the Henry Ford Show and Shine takes place at Lansdowne Park carpark 28 July from 10am to 2pm.
Entry is $15 for show cars and gold coin donation per person. You don’t have to be a club member to show your Ford just make contact at [email protected] or turn up on the day, vehicles on show to be parked up by 9.30am please.