News : More than 500 attend donkey basketball

Julie Lessig scored a couple baskets for the Betterton Chiro team -- after learning riding skills.

Kim Meyer attempts to climb on her ride while holding a basketball.

Brandon Geiger heads toward the basket, as the Dairlyland Donkey rep motivates his ride.

Emily Howe takes a shot for the VS student team.

Emily Howe prepares to take a shot.

Kim Meyer learns from experience why donkeys are labeled 'stubborn.'

Many children and a few adults enjoyed donkey rides during intermission.

Approximately 500 people spent Tuesday evening laughing with and at their friends and neighbors who tried their skill and luck (mostly luck) at donkey basketball.

The fund-raiser for the GOVS Scholarship Fund included three games of 8-on-8 basketball; two teams of four players riding four donkeys. The main rules required players to be mounted on their rides while passing or shooting the ball.

Players attempting to stay on their beasts of burden, or those attempting to motivate their donkey to move, brought the loudest laughter. A few players did manage to score.

Duane Fisher of GOVS thanked the players for their bravery in attempting the unique sport, as well as the fans, organizers and sponsors. He offered a special thanks to the Super Pooper Scoopers, Brad Barler and Alan Merchant, who responded with shovels and disinfectant spray after every on-court dropping.

Teams included Vinton Unlimited, Team Betterton, V-S faculty, and two teams of VS students as well as a Police/Fire/EMS team.

See more photos HERE.