Four show jumping riders from Texas who will be competing in the Burlington Capital International Omaha, April 4-7 at the CHI Health Center Omaha, have offered to donate a percentage of their winnings to help victims recover from damages caused by the recent flooding in Nebraska.
“We Texans, as a group, wanted to support our friends and fellow horsemen from Nebraska during this difficult time,” said former International Omaha Grand Prix winner Matt Cyphert of Woodhill Farm in Argyle, Texas.
“We have enjoyed the hospitality of Nebraskans at the International Omaha over the years and wanted to help with the flood relief efforts in some meaningful way.”
Cyphert is part of the contingent of four Texans contributing to the effort, a list that also includes four-time International Omaha Grand Prix winner, Christian Heineking, Trapp O'Neal and Frank Owens.
“This is a remarkable act of kindness and sportsmanship from our friends in the Lone Star State. We are grateful for their generosity, but not at all surprised because they are wonderful people,” says Lisa Roskens, chairman of the Omaha Equestrian Foundation, host of the International Omaha.
The Omaha Equestrian Foundation plans to offer other ways for visitors to donate to flood relief including an online silent auction and an informal “Pass the Boot” where anyone can make a contribution no matter how big or small.
The Burlington Capital International Omaha takes place Thursday, April 4-Sunday, April 7 at the CHI Health Center Omaha. The International Omaha includes three ticketed competitions and an educational clinic. Tickets start at $12.50 and can be purchased at all Ticketmaster outlets. Free activities include the family friendly Triple Crown Horse Discovery Zone, Boutique Shopping Village and the Tailgate Lounge. New this year is the Pampered Pony Salon and Wine Alley.