Runners and walkers are invited to participate in the 12th annual Ryerss Run for the Horses on Saturday, April 13, at Ryerss Farm, 1710 Ridge Road, Pottstown. Participants will have an option to run a 10K or 5K or take part in a 1-mile walk.

Race-day registration will begin at noon, and the races and walk will start at 1 p.m. sharp, rain or shine. Those who register before noon on Wednesday, April 10, will receive a discount and an event T-shirt. To register, visit http://www.ryerssfarm.org/run-for-the-horses.

The runs and the walk will take participants along a cross-country course. The walkers will take a 1-mile route that is closer to the farm. Runners in the 5K and 10K will be electronically timed. Winners in various age divisions in the 5K and 10K will receive medals.

"New this year will be a post-race celebration, which will include music and a beer garden for those age 21 and up," noted Lynn Seeburger, a member of the Ryerss board of managers.

She said that the most popular course at the event is traditionally the 5K race, adding that last year's event was held in the pouring rain. "We had 160 (participants) despite the weather," Seeburger noted.

The site's gift shop will be open during the day, offering equine-related items, including plush miniature horses and Ryerss apparel such as hats, T-shirts and hoodies. "We have gift items; toys, like mini tractors; and new stuffed animals, including donkeys, dragons, chicks and bunnies," said Seeburger.

On the day of the event, people will be able to visit the horses that reside at the farm, many of which gather along the fence to watch the runners pass by. Non-runners and walkers are also welcome to visit the horses and cheer on the runners on April 13.

All proceeds from the Run for the Horses and gift shop sales will benefit the rescued, aged and retired horses that live at the farm.

Founded in 1888, Ryerss Farm is a nonprofit organization that cares for aged, abused or injured horses. Ryerss is situated on 383 acres where the retired animals can spend their golden years. The horses at Ryerss are never worked or ridden again.

Community members are welcome to visit the horses daily between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are welcome. Those who want to feed snacks to the horses are asked to purchase treats from the gift shop rather than bringing items from home.

Following the Run for the Horses, the next event at Ryerss will be Family Fun Day, set this year for Saturday, June 22, from noon to 4 p.m. The event will feature pony rides and hayrides, face painting, children's games, a horse-themed bounce house, an obstacle course and prizes. Picnic foods, including grilled hot dogs and hamburgers, will be offered.

Ryerss Farm is located on Route 23 in Warwick and South Coventry townships. For more information, call 610-469-0533 or visit ww.facebook.com/ryerss.farm or www.ryerssfarm.org.