Polo raises $794,000 for MDA

By Sandy Morris

Every year, a crowd of people comes together, not only to enjoy the annual Polo on the Prairie, but to  raise money for MD Anderson in the fight against cancer.

Last year the event was cancelled due to ­COVID concerns, so regular attendees were looking forward to the return of the yearly fundraiser. 

Recent heavy rains caused flooding at the traditional location at the Lazy 3 Ranch, so the main event took place at the Stephens County Airport.

According to Allison Schaffer, MD Anderson public relations program manager, the party took place in the MT7 Hangar, courtesy of Mary and Mike Terry.

“Clay Walker was the entertainer for the even­ing,” said Schaffer. “He had folks dancing the night away.”

At the end of the night, a total of $794,000 had been raised for The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

To date, the event has raised more than eight million dollars for cancer research and patient programs.

The West Texas tradition included a quilt auction, won by Julie and Jimmy Musselman with a bid of $25,000. 

The quilt winners gifted their prize to Polo on the Prairie chairs Melinda and Henry Musselman.

Schaffer also thanked the committee of Prissy Harvick, Liz Green, Michelle Jones, Michele Arnot, Pat Everett, Suzan Cook, and Marci Pearson for their work to make this year’s event a success.