Friendly Ford showcases horse power

There’s horsepower, and then there’s horse power.

Friendly Ford will display both at its dealership Saturday during the 2013 Helldorado Days Gold Buckle Champion ccelebration from 11a.m. to 3 p.m.

Children can enjoy pony rides and meet Seven, the new Gold Buckle Champion mascot, along with Mojave Max, the official “spokestortoise” for the Clark County Desert Conservation program.

“It’s an opportunity to educate kids and their families on the importance of preserving our Western heritage, which includes promoting the health and safety of horses,” said Jason Davis, Friendly Ford’s general manager. “We’re happy to partner again with Gold Buckle Champion and with them, welcome Helldorado Days to Las Vegas.”

Christian Auer, Miss Helldorado 2013, and Chloe Powell, Miss Helldorado 2012, will be on hand for the event, along with the Helldorado Rangers and the UNLV Rodeo Team. Demonstrations will include stick horse barrel racing and roping with cowboys. Free face painting and barbecue also will be provided.

Gold Buckle Champion was created by Sue Marostica and Corey Fagan after working for several years as coordinators for the Idaho Cutting Horse Association. Their events included getting the community involved and helping other nonprofits like Toys for Tots and the Ride for Joy. Expanding to include other horse events and other communities was a natural progression for them.

Friendly Ford is at 660 N. Decatur Blvd., just north of U.S. Highway 95. It has served Las Vegas for 43 years and is a One Ford Elite winner and a 14-time Presidents Award winner, Ford’s highest honors for customer satisfaction and excellence.

For more information call 702-870-7221 or visit www.friendlyfordlv.com.