PICKENS COUNTY — A pretty day and a second change were the ingredients for the “re-do” for this year’s Ride For The Child Event Saturday.

The ride, rescheduled due to a rainy Saturday two weeks ago, drew 300 participants and raised $20,762 fro Prevent Child Abuse Pickens County.

But that number was still about $5,000 down from last year’s totals.

Prevent Child Abuse Pickens County director Heather Witt was upbeat about the results despite a rocky schedule.

“I was really impressed with all the people who came out to ride in our event,” Witt said. “So many people changed their schedule just to be part of this event. I don’t know what we would do without them.”

Witt said that several of the riders asked about their fundraising totals.

“That tells me that our people are interested in what we do,” Witt said.

Witt said she hoped Prevent Child Abuse Pickens County could make up for the shortfall with its fall fundraiser, “Cheer for Children.”

However, several of the riders asked if Prevent Child Abuse Pickens County might consider a second ride this fall.

“Several people are ready to ride again for us,” Witt said. “We’ll have to see about finding new sponsors and new stops before we can commit to a second ride.”

Saturday’s ride started at the agency’s headquarters on SC 8. Witt said she hopes to do the same with future rides.

“I think a lot of people enjoyed coming in and seeing what we do.”

Witt thanked Michael’s Pizza for hosting the finale for the ride again this year.

“His staff is just awesome,” Witt said.

Witt said she looks for the Ride for the Child to continue as long as it receives the enthusiastic support it has enjoyed its first 15 years.

“I don’t know what we would do without those who support us,” Witt said. “We’re looking forward to our 16th year.