Briarwood Derby Day Riders Honor a Life and Support Local Cancer Care
On Sunday, June 8, 2025, riders, families, and friends will gather once again at Duncraven Stables in Titusville, NJ, for a day that blends competition with compassion. Hosted by Katie Benson in memory of her late husband, Jack Benson, Briarwood Derby Day is more than an equestrian event — it’s a living tribute to Jack’s spirit and a way to ensure that patients facing cancer in our community continue to receive the care they deserve. The event begins at 8:00 a.m., with young riders taking to the course and donors making real-time pledges to fuel life-changing programs at Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center.
Last year’s event raised $15,000, a testament to the passion behind every stride. Among the standouts were Lauren Nitahara, the highest pledge earner riding One Jump Ahead, and Abby Staskel, who earned the Style of Riding Award with her horse Zola. Victories were also celebrated across the divisions, including Lily Cramer of Pipersville, PA with Esta Noche, Alison Roh of Englewood Cliffs, NJ riding for Heron Stables, and Taylor Silvius of Nazareth, PA with Stateside TM. As we look ahead to this year’s Derby Day, we do so with gratitude — for the memories honored, the riders inspired, and the impact made possible through every gift and every jump.
For more information on how to support Briarwood Derby Day and Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center, visit https://derbyday.me/
Pictured (Left to Right): Pam Neiderer, Director of Development, Duncraven, Phil Beekman, Senior Vice President, Hunterdon Health Foundation, Shawn Stout, Owner of Duncraven, Cara Wheeler, Head Trainer, Duncraven, and Katie Benson
About the Foundation: Hunterdon Health Foundation is the fundraising organization for Hunterdon Health System. It receives support from individuals, corporations, foundations, and other sources to assist the Hunterdon Medical Center and its affiliated non-profit organizations in fulfilling their mission to meet the community’s need for high-quality healthcare.