As this season ended May 5, a total of 78 riders, adults as old as 91 and children as young as 3, had been through the program with 20 more signed up for next season meaning a need for more volunteers.

The Classic's Bob Brennan (cq), joined Pegasus Program Director Lori Sarner (cq) as she ran a class of stroke patients through "Riding for Recovery" for the last time this season.

"This is one of the programs where we can immediately see the benefits of our contributions," Brennan said. "It's not just in the material sense, but in the smiles on those riders' faces and the pride in their loved ones watching. For future volunteers, I can't think of a more fulfilling place to give your time. This place builds everybody up."

In equine therapy, riders perform a series of mild exercises geared to stimulate usable muscles and joints and develop balance. The warm, gentle massage of the horse while walking is especially good for mobility impaired people. For someone confined to a wheelchair, the experience is as close to walking as nature provides.

Psychologically, the riders are given a sense of empowerment as they control the horses. They also learn trust and gain confidence by bonding with the horses and volunteers.

As the adult riders snapped on their helmets and readied to ride, Sarner recounted a number of success stories from the season. There was the little boy who left his wheelchair behind after he dismounted and walked down the mounting ramp. The sullen blind boy who has slowly come out of his shell and can even be caught laughing on occasion. The autistic girl who finally used her strength not just to tease the volunteers, but to perform the exercises.

"These accomplishments may seem minimal when you see them on paper," Sarner said, "but when you witness the progression from their first ride to one of these simple acts, you know how profound they really are."

Cathedral City resident Doris Mechanick (cq) watched as her husband Jerry went through the workout. "He came a year ago because he heard it would improve his balance and self confidence and it's done just that," she said. "It's absolutely amazing."

Albert Zaretz (cq) said his stroke left him paralyzed "from head to toe. Now I can move every limb and my balance has improved." For each of the last 20 years, the Classic has generated more than $1 million for Eisenhower Medical Center and 40 other local charities. With its total contributions at more than $35 million, the tournament ranks among the most successful charitable events on the professional tour.

"The Classic has really helped us out with its continued support," said Sarner, "and with their help, we have been able to expand the program and help more people than ever."