Donkey basketball fundraiser nets nearly $1,000

The Del Norte High School gym hosted an unusual basketball game on March 2 as teams from Del Norte Future Farmers of America and Lake Earl Grange tried to play the sport atop donkeys.

The groups hosted the event as a rollicking fundraiser. Donkey Sports Inc., of Entiat, Wash., providing the donkeys and the officials. One side of the gym was roped off and the other packed with spectators.

Baskets could only be scored while mounted atop a donkey. And loose balls could only be retrieved while maintaining a grip on the donkey’s reins.

Jessica Chamberlain, Del Norte High School Agriculture Advisor, said she did not get a headcount for official numbers, but the turnout was better than she expected.

“I loved it. I had fun, the kids had fun playing and are excited for next year. The crowd was the best and rooted our kids on. I think it was a great event,” Chamberlain said.

Chamberlain said the event profited $958 to be split between the Lake Earl Grange and the FFA club. The funds will help pay for Grange rodeo fees and to help pay for students to attend the state FFA conference next month, Chamberlain said.