On Saturday February 20, a number of intrepid MBE riders showed up for a ride at the Creekside staging area of Ft. Ord. It is thanks to Liz Gheen, the ride host, that the staging area is so fine for horse folks and their rigs. Liz spent much time and effort working with the BLM on the creation of the staging area. Prior to the concrete parking lot and bathrooms, riders parked along the road leading in to stage and ride.
So the day dawned sunny in Santa Cruz County but was a bit cloudy in Monterey for the arrival of the riders. They came from far and near with horse folks local and a threesome from Paso Robles. Got to like it when you see so many people wanting to ride between the rain days.
Liz was there to greet and sign in guests and sign up new members. The ride was well attended with all kinds of critters. We had many breeds of horses represented as well as two mules; A special note to Randy who rode a new horse (for him) leading two young Mustangs as a pack string. Yikes. My shoulder hurt just watching the start.
Sunny it was when we set out for a ride up and over the hills with a lunch stop. I was the drag rider so I can only say that the trails were fine, the views pretty and the company great. It was all good from my perspective; usual settling in time in the beginning leading to a fine ride.
It was fun to ride with Mike and Patti Garcia and Mac and Ike. Two matching Mustang bays for mounts and both are cute and solid to match their riders. As any ride will, I had the opportunity to ride and chat with many in the group including the Paso Robles folks. Up at 4 a.m. they were to make this ride.
Thankful I am for the opportunity to get out on horseback any day but especially during the “winter” season; thanks to Liz for leading the ride. A special thanks to Susan Dowell Glaser for taking the photos.
I look forward to seeing you on the trail.
Maribeth
