National Trail Ride in Belvidere - June 5-7

photo Michael Martin Murphey

Several events are scheduled this weekend at the Circle E Ranch in Belvidere, Tenn., to raise money for the Fiona Rose Murphey Foundation, including a concert by cowboy musician Michael Martin Murphey, Fiona's grandfather.

Fiona, 14, of Nashville, suffers from a rare genetic disorder, osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease), which affects about one in every 20,000 children born in the United States each year, according to a news release. Fiona had seven broken bones at birth and has since endured nearly 100 more. She has lived most of her life in a wheelchair and has undergone several surgical procedures.

Today through Saturday, June 5-7, the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders and Exhibitors Association is planning a fundraiser to help children with the disease. Coinciding with National Trails Day, the Fiona Rose Murphey Foundation National Trail Ride will take place in six states and Germany.

Organizers say they are expecting more than 1,500 riders and campers across the country.

At the Circle E Ranch, activities include trail rides, horsemanship clinics, vendor row and a wine-and-cheese meet-and-greet with fellow trail riders, followed by Murphey's concert.

Cost is $50 for all three days, which includes concert tickets. Call 931-962-1790 for reservations.

Those who can't take part all three days may opt for the Fun Day Ride on Saturday for a $25 donation to the foundation.

Singer Templeton Thompson will be in concert at 8 p.m. Friday for a $10 donation. She and Ryan Murphey will open for Michael Martin Murphey at 8 p.m. Saturday (all times are Central). Concert cost is a $25 donation. Ryan Murphey, a Grammy-winning record producer, is Fiona's father and Michael Martin Murphey's son.

Circle E Ranch is at 50 Circle E. Lane in Franklin County. The phone number is 931-962-1790.

For more information, visit www.circleeguestranch.com or www.fionarosemurpheytrust.org.

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