The Wet N’ Wild Trail Ride, organized by the Legacy Administration at Alabama State University, took place Monday, Sept. 30, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event featured 1,000 water balloons, two live horses for students to ride, free barbecue plates and a mechanical bull. Students embraced the rodeo theme, wearing cowboy boots and hats as they participated in the festivities. It is the first of its kind and may prove to be a viable recurring event in the future.
Kameelah Freeman, the Student Government Association (SGA) vice president, explained the inspiration behind the event.
“We wanted to bring the true Alabama trail ride rodeo experience,” Freeman said. “Being in Alabama, we thought a rodeo-themed event would be a fun way to engage students. I hope students take away the true ‘Bama spirit and get hyped for homecoming week.”
Tyrin Moorer, a senior finance major and president of the university’s NAACP chapter, praised the event, saying, “Alabama State Homecoming is a special experience. It’s not just about the alumni coming back but also about current students coming together for fun activities. This event is the start of a great series of events planned for Homecoming.”
Dakota Sumpter, a sophomore computer information systems major, expressed excitement about the activities, especially the horses.
“I really like that they offer horses because some people, like myself, have never ridden one before. It’s a 10 out of 10 right now.” Sumpter hopes the event will return in future semesters, possibly for Welcome Week or spring semester events.
Malik Booker, a senior dance major, shared his enthusiasm for the event.
“I feel really great, especially since it’s homecoming week. I’ve always wanted to ride a mechanical bull, and now, I had the chance to do it. The horse rides also remind me of Texas, where I’ve spent time because of my family’s military background.” Booker hopes students walk away with good memories and a sense of joy from the event.
Aaliyah Jordan, a senior health information management major, also enjoyed the event, commenting on the laid-back vibe early in the day.
“There aren’t too many people here yet, but I know people have classes and exams,” Jordan said. “I think more will come out later.”
Jordan also appreciated the free barbecue and the rodeo theme.
“I love participating in themed events, and I hope future students get to experience this. It doesn’t have to be for Homecoming; it could be for Farewell Week or another big campus event.”
She continued.
“When I get older and I come back, I’m not going to come throughout the week because these (events) are for students. I’m not going to have a student ID, so I hope people take advantage of all the events that SGA has. Even if you just come out for a little bit, even if you’re not dressed, I think you should still come and just have fun.
