Evacuated horses need help

The Norris-Penrose Events Center opened its doors when the fire forced hundreds of animals from their homes.

As of Friday, the center was housing 167 horses, cattle and other large animals.

“It requires with this number of horses and large animals that you staff 24 hours a day, seven days a week, until the crisis is over,” said Allen Gasper, senior partner of the Gasper Law Group and member of the Pikes Peak Range Riders.

Johnny Walker, general manager of the Norris-Penrose Events Center, said they have plenty of room for the horses as the facility is able to hold approximately 300 animals.

“Where we’re being taxed is in our utilities usage. We have fans on every single horse here. So, we have a lot of fans running, diesel fuel, we have overtime with my staff, trying to keep everyone fed and watered; it’s taxing us pretty good,” said Walker.

Walker is asking for the support of the community. He said they are in need of hay and supplies, but more importantly they are in need of financial support.

“If we run out of money, we can’t stop feeding them or stop watering them or have staff not show up. We have to continue. So, it’s really all about the horses,” Walker said.

Anybody can help the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo Foundation by donating at any Chase Bank. Just inform the teller that the donation is to be directed to the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo Foundation, and include “fire horse rescue” in the memo of the donation.