AutoNation Toyota sponsors fundraiser for equine groups

AutoNation Toyota of Las Vegas was a key sponsor of the fifth annual Freedom For Wild Horses charity golf tournament held earlier this month at Angel Park Golf Course.

Nearly 80 golfers participated in the event, which raised several thousand dollars for two local charities, one which benefits domestic horses and the other fighting for the freedom of their wild cousins.

Many of the dealerships employees participated in the tournament.

Specialty holes gave golfers a chance to win a new Toyota Tundra on a hole-in one or a vacation to Maui, Hawaii.

“We had a great time and good turnout this year,” said Carol Arieno, event organizer and owner of Freedom For Wild Horses, a local clothing retailer that donates a portion of its proceeds and coordinates the event to support the nonprofit Return to Freedom American Wild Horse Sanctuary.

Sharing in the day’s benefits was All Vegas Horses, a new nonprofit focused on helping horses and donkeys in holding by animal control with nowhere to go. The group uses a network of foster homes and volunteers to rehabilitate and find new homes for the animals through its Local Equine Assistance Network.

“We are super excited to have been invited by FFWH to participate in this year’s event,” said Karin Larrick, the organization’s president and co-founder.

Area businesses donated raffle items or sponsored holes along the course, including Wheel Wizard, Star Nursery and Dent Pro.

Players were treated to lunch inside the clubhouse after the day’s play as prizes, trophies and auction items were distributed.

For more information on the two charities, visit www.leanhorses.org or www.springmountainalliance.org.