Raleigh-Durham, NC - Western Classic 2010

On Saturday, October 23rd over 450 friends gathered at Rose Hill Farm to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Western Classic and Barbecue. This year’s event featured entertainment by Cadillac Sky, Gary P. Nunn and of course the Lea Brothers Band. We’re pleased to announce that the event raised well over $90,000! 

Twenty-one years ago, Liz and Haynes Lea's daughter Elizabeth, at the age of 5, was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa. They had no idea what that was. They quickly learned it's the name for an array of retinal degenerative diseases that gradually and determinedly steal the precious gift of sight leading ultimately to blindness.

In response, friends and family launched the Western Classic and Barbecue. This year we celebrate the Classic’s 20th anniversary. The event started at Rose Hill Farm with a modest goal of netting $5,000. It netted over $40,000 that year, a darn good indicator this concept may have staying power, and has netted well over $1,000,000 in the 19 years since. Past entertainers include Jerry Jeff Walker, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Robert Earl Keen, and Asleep at the Wheel.    

The Western Classic now alternates between beautiful Rose Hill Farm and Camp Yonahnoka, at the foot of majestic Grandfather Mountain, bringing in folks from all over the Carolinas and beyond.
Whether you've been with us for all twenty years or this is your first, we are forever grateful for your support. We hope to see everyone at next year’s event on Saturday, September 24th at Camp Yonahnoka.