Derby Dash held for Branson Humane Society

It just so happened to be Kentucky Derby Day, so why not do it the Ozarks way and support a good organization while you’re at it?

Fun and competition were had by all who attended and participated at the Derby Dash. Eight inflatables had a race Derby style. They raced two at a time to the final race and the profits were donated back to the Humane Society.

I asked what the purpose of the Derby Dash was and Joshua Heston, StateoftheOzarks, stated, "This is a fun way to build community, raise money and give back to good organizations, like the Branson Humane Society." This was the first time doing this event, but it went over so well it will probably become an annual event. Who's planning their strategy for next year? The co-chairmen/organizers of the event were Joshua Heston, StateoftheOzarks, and Kim and Jim Steele, Steele Solutions. 

  The following is the list of the runners (eight runners in inflatable costumes):

●      Steele Solutions (Upside-down clown)

●      Branson King Condos (Rooster)

●      Copy Run (Minion)

●      Cozy Up Penguin Coffee (Penguin)

●      Walkers Branson (Zombie)

●      Branson Bowling (Bowling Pin)

●      Built Right (T-Rex)

●      Lindwedel Winery (Mr. Potato Head).

Derby attire and fancy hats were encouraged! Following a processional walk, the race got underway. It was a great time! 

The sponsors and partners list is long, and everyone is appreciated for giving to this local, worthy cause.

B.A.T. Boys, Branson Bowling, Branson Globe, Branson King Resorts, Built Rite, Copy Run, Cozy Up Penguin Coffee Shop, Downtown Hound, Greatest Adventures Golf, Hollister Area Chamber, Kilroys, LeBlanc Wellness, Lindwedel Winery, Ozarks Elder Law, Pelican Pete's Bar & Grill, Pizza World (Cross Creek), R Veterinary Kirbyville, StateoftheOzarks, Steele Solutions, The Sandwich Shop, Vintage Paris Coffee, Walkers Branson.

Prizes were donated by all four of Crazy Craig's locations, Gamma Soap Co., Enchanted Memories and More, Riki Klein-Realtor, Yoga & Sound Bath (Addie Gaines), Modern Woodman (Wendy Trevor) and Inked by Risk Masters.

The race winner was Janessa Keup—the Penguin representing Cozy Up Penguin Coffee. The traveling trophy that stands three feet tall is displayed at her business. You can see it at Cozy Up Penguin Coffee Shop, 225 Cross Creek Blvd., H, at Sunfest Market Plaza, Branson, or on Facebook. 

Money raised totaled $1,300, and Jayme Tabuchi from Branson Humane Society accepted the check.