Despite efforts by animal rights activists to stop donkey basketball at Wilson Memorial high school... the fundraiser went forward Wednesday night.

Teachers, students and community members made up the two teams.

The object is to shoot the ball, while sitting on an assigned donkey.

PETA claims that donkeys are meant to carry only 100 pounds and the weight of an adult is too much.

But officials at Wilson high say participants are given rules to keep riders and donkeys safe and even match each donkey with appropriate body types; the bigger guy gets the bigger donkey.

One player said he wouldn't participate if he thought it was harmful to the animals.

"I mean I can understand their basis but as far as donkey basketball goes I think it's totally harmless and there's nothing at all wrong with doing what they're doing I mean the guy does it for a living so why would he abuse the donkeys they're just like any other animal, if you abuse them they'll lay down."

The event was put on to raise money for Wilson Memorial after prom party.