The Colorado Horse Park, Parker Adventist Hospital and Parker Hospital Foundation will offer an equestrian helmet fitting at CHP this Saturday, July 21 from 2:30-4:30. This is event is part of the community outreach from Parker Hospital Foundation’s Equestrian Safety Program.  Equestrians can pick up their free helmets in front of the main office at CHP, located at 7522 South Pinery Drive, Parker, CO 80134. After you receive your free helmet, stay to enjoy the $50,000 Parker Adventist Hospital Grand Prix, which begins at 4:30 p.m. General admission tickets are free.  
 
“At the Colorado Horse Park we do everything we can to help spread the word about the importance of wearing helmets and other issues of equestrian safety,” said Vivien Van Buren, the park’s education director.
 
According to the American Medical Equestrian Association, head injuries account for 60% of deaths due to equestrian accidents, yet only 20% of riders wear helmets. Helmets have become a hot topic in many equestrian sports due the high profile accidents of top riders.
 
“Due to the popularity of horseback riding in Douglas and Elbert counties, equestrian-related injuries are among the top five conditions treated at the Parker Adventist Hospital emergency department,” explained Pam Elser, R.N., director of neuroscience and spine services at the hospital.
 
“Helmets are hugely effective,” reported Sean Markey M.D., director of neurosurgery for the hospital and neurological consultant for the Denver Broncos, during a lecture on equestrian safety held earlier this year at CHP. “Equestrian helmets are designed for the different types of riding and are tested and as safe as possible.”
 
To learn more about the Equestrian Safety Program, call Parker Adventist Hospital at 303-269-4809, or visit their website  www.parkerhospital.org. Additional information can be found at www.coloradohorsepark.com.