Michael Martin Murphey will perform Saturday night in Belvidere, Tenn., as part of a fundraiser for his granddaughter’s foundation.If you go
* What: Second annual National Trail Ride To Benefit the Fiona Rose Murphey Foundation, featuring Michael Martin Murphey.* When: Today-Sunday, June 4-7. * Where: Circle E. Guest Ranch, 50 Circle E Lane, Belvidere, Tenn. * Admission: $50 donation entire weekend (free for kids under 12); concert-only tickets are $15 Friday with Templeton Thompson, Stephanie Layne and The Sawdust Brothers; $20 Saturday for Michael Martin Murphey.* Website: http://tinyurl.com/pl29yem
It’s not unusual that the granddaughter of cowboy singer Michael Martin Murphey is a fan of horses. Lots of young girls are, and given that her grandfather makes a living singing about them, well, the attraction is natural.
Fiona Rose Murphey, however, suffers from osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease), and riding a horse or any such physical exertion puts her at risk. It hasn’t quelled her love for the animals, however, nor her optimism and thirst for life.
At just 15, Fiona Rose is a student at Vanderbilt University studying math and science, according to her proud grandfather. Both Murpheys will be in Belvidere, Tenn., this weekend to participate in Equestrian Legacy Radio’s National Trail Ride To Benefit the Fiona Rose Murphey Foundation.
In addition to the National Trail Ride event, the weekend features the national championship for Craig Cameron’s Extreme Cowboy Association, a two-day competition. Other events include a Cowboy Up Ball with the Kenny Berry Band, music by Templeton Thompson, Stephanie Layne and The Sawdust Brothers on Friday night ($15 ticket).