As Michael Ford sat down to enjoy a plate of barbecue, the North Augusta Department of Public Safety officer spoke about Aiken's efforts to remember first responders who have given their lives in the line of duty and those who are still risking it all each day.
"They're raising money to show support for us, which I think is a great and humbling initiative," Ford said during Sunday's First Responder Roundup. "In this day and time, it's nice to know that the community you serve is behind you."
Some of the roundup's events were canceled because of inclement weather, but that didn't stop supporters from coming out to enjoy the food, company and the Aiken Spring Classic Grand Prix.
The roundup was put on at Highfields Park in conjunction with an equestrian event, giving ticket-buyers an opportunity to enjoy the equestrians in addition to supporting their first responders. The event included officers from North Augusta, the City of Aiken, the County and all of the other first responder departments.
Funds raised during the roundup will go to fund the Aiken County First Responders Honor Park - a project spearheaded by Support 1, a group co-founded by Ford - and Aiken advocate Jane Page Thompson.
The roundup served as the first major fundraiser for the park, which officials are hoping will be ready to open in May 2016. Thompson said they hoped for better weather Sunday but that they were excited to move forward regardless.
"Our first responders are there for us rain or shine, so we want to do the same for them," she said.
Attendees enjoyed their meals and clapped for the jumping show at the Highfields. Grand Prix events run from April 15 to 19 and again Saturday to Sunday. Sunday's show was designated as a benefit for the Honor Park and next Sunday, the show will benefit the Women Beyond Cancer organization.
One of the jumpers, Casey Mason, has been participating for years with her horse, Morrison. Mason said there were concerns with the weather, but that the race turned out well.
"It rode really nice and it was a very fun course," Mason said. "It's always been a great event and makes for a good show."
Derrek Asberry is the SRS beat reporter for the Aiken Standard and has been with the paper since June 2013. He is originally from Vidalia, Ga., and a graduate of Georgia Southern University. Follow him on Twitter @DerrekAsberry.