By CLARKE STACKHOUSE/For the Reporter

INDIAN SPRINGS – The second annual Special Equestrians Derby Run will be held June 8 at the organization’s facilities on the Indian Springs School campus.

The event is open to runners of all ages and includes a 5k, 10k and one-mile fun run. Registration begins at 8 a.m.

The races will begin and end at the Special Equestrians’ barn, and the course will cross sections of Oak Mountain State Park cross country trail.

Following the races, an open house will be held at the barn. A highlight of the open house is the addition of three new horse stalls, which were dedicated to a rider who died last year. Donations sent in following her death funded the new stall, according to Gordon Sullivan, junior board member.

Special Equestrians’ mission is “to provide high quality therapeutic horseback riding and equine assisted activities to persons with physical, mental, developmental and emotional disabilities,” according to its website. The nonprofit has served individuals from Shelby and Jefferson counties since 1986.

Last year’s Derby Run attracted 130 runners and raised more than $6,400 through entry fees and sponsors. To register, visit Specialequest.org.