The Webb County Pct. 1 Constable's Office hosted its first-ever Navidad en el Barrio Trail Ride on Saturday morning in an effort to raise money and purchase Christmas gifts for kids from low-income families.

"It's going to be a wonderful Christmas for over 1,000 kids," said trail ride participant Bea Maldonado.

"I was so overwhelmed this morning with the (number) of horses and trailers."

The 10-mile trail ride began at 8:30 a.m. near the 28-mile marker on Interstate 35 and ended at J & D Ranch, off North U.S. 83.

About 120 riders, who paid a $20 entry fee, participated in the event.

"It's a great ride. There's good weather and no injuries," said Armando Jalomo, owner of the San Nicolas Ranch.

"I'm just doing my part to help the community."

When trail ride participants reached their destination at J & D Ranch, live music and food awaited them.

"It's always beautiful seeing these people come out for a good cause," said Pct. 1 Constable Rodolfo "Rudy" Rodriguez.

"It's not about me. It's about the community."

More than 1,000 economically disadvantaged UISD and LISD students, picked by school counselors, will each receive about five individually wrapped gifts with their name on them.

"Attention to detail is very important," Maldonado said.

On Dec. 16, the gifts will be distributed during an event at the Laredo Entertainment Center.

The event will feature live music, in addition to meals provided by Chick-fil-A.

"The most beautiful thing is seeing a smile on their face when they get the gift," Rodriguez said.

Local organizers for Navidad en el Barrio, a Houston-based statewide nonprofit organization, is now accepting donations and sponsorships year-round.

And it's not too late to help this year's cause. For more information, call the constable's office at 523-4316.

Rodriguez said the office can send an informational CD to those interested in donating or being a sponsor.

So far, the office has raised about $20,000, most of which came from bucket brigades.

"Whether it's a nickel or a dime, it helps," Rodriguez said, adding that an additional $2,000 was raised from Saturday's trail ride entry fees.

"For as long as we are in office, we'll be holding this event for many years to come," he said.

Participating groups in the trail included the San Nicolas Ranch, J & D Ranch, Webb County Equestrian Youth Club, La Bota Rota Ranch, El Cielo Ranch, Webb County Trail Riders, La Sita Rose VIP Trail Riders, Jalisciense Ranch and R & R Ranch.

Sponsors included Laredo Ranch Sote, R & S Feed Store, Bushlan, BMP Radio, Casa Raul, Variety Meats and Mike's Western Wear.

(Nick Georgiou may be reached at 728-2582 or nickg@lmtonline.com)