SWIT & DR HELPING HAND AWARD

The first Helping Hand Award was donated by Alexia Haller to, honor long-time SWIT&DR member Rae Ann Larsen, who passed away in 2013. Rae Ann competed in endurance from 1985 to 1997. Even though Rae Ann lived in Idaho Falls, she and her husband Jay were ardent supporters of SWIT&DR rides.  She also managed the Wolverine Canyon ride.  Alexia remembered Rae Ann providing much needed help to her at a rainy Targhee Ride near Ashton, Idhao, so she established the award to honor “someone who was always offering a helping hand to other riders.” 

In 2021 after all 7 buckles had been awarded, we began a new Helping Hand Award in honor of Neil Roberts, who passed away in 2017.  Neil was a staple in the vet checks at SWIT & DR rides. He always had a smile and a big hello for riders entering the vet checks.  He spent many hours doing P&R for local endurance rides, along with countless hours spent helping mark trails.  Neil Roberts was a loyal member of SWIT & DR since the 80’s and became a devoted pit crew for his wife Carolyn long after he no longer rode in endurance.

Here are the people who won Montana silversmith belt buckles for their good deeds. 

2013- Randy Peppersack

2014- Bruce and Nance Worman

2015- Cini Baumhoff

2016 – Pam Haynes

2017- Neil Roberts

2018 - Kalli Worth

2019 -Lauren and Steven Coziah

2022- Cat Cook

2023 - Craig Tarbet

2024 - Ann Kuck

2025 - Linda Wahlberg

Please send nominations for the 2027 Helping Hand award to Karen Steenhof (karensteenhof@gmail.com) to honor the individual who provides help to riders during the 2026 ride season.