Variety is the Spice of Life, RIGHT?
March 14, 2026: The club offered two different ways to get back in the saddle! Some members were itching for the open trail, while others were looking for a more controlled "tune-up" for their first ride of the year. We did both!
Rusty Nail Ride!
Fourteen riders saddled up at the Cedar Road Trailhead for our March birthday ride. We only logged a few miles, but we logged some serious "brain power" thanks to a lesson ride with Brandy and Thunder.
We kicked things off with directional backing and side-passing. Getting your mount to side-pass over a traffic cone proved to be a bit challenging for some! Brandy showed us the "how and why" of teaching your horse to pick you up from a mounting block (or a rock, or a huge tree stump). She also explained—and Thunder demonstrated—how to switch directions when the rider is not mounted and you need your horse to turn around.
Additionally, Brandy demonstrated the best way to navigate steep terrain. When going uphill, try to take the pressure off your horse's loins. On the way downhill, body sway is a common problem. Archie's rider demonstrated an incorrect descent, rocking back and forth in rhythm with the horse on a steep grade. As always, she over-acted the demonstration and nearly fell off her horse!
The club rode up the sandy wash to the Squint Moore Archaeological Site and tied the horses in the dry creek bed. Tablecloths were spread, and delicious treats came out of the saddlebags. Spicy chicken, homemade ginger snaps, and Betty's salad were the favorites. We made it back to the trailers just as the wind started to howl!
Controlled Lesson & More
The obstacle course at Estella's lovely facility brought in nine horses, two members auditing, and Estella, for a total of 12 participants. The day started with Brenda leading the group through ground exercises for the riders, focusing on balance, coordination, and core strength.
Brenda then had the group divide into pairs to try bareback mounted exercises on the calmer horses. One person led or held the horse while the other attempted the movements. When was the last time you lay back on your horse bareback and pulled yourself back into a sitting position? That takes some serious core strength!
Estella led the group in a few more ground exercises for the horses, and then everyone saddled up to introduce their mounts to the various obstacles in "Estella's Playground."
The day concluded with a group ride around the property, allowing everyone to put their newly practiced balance and core strength to the test in a relaxed setting. It was the perfect way to wrap up a day of learning and building confidence for both horse and rider.
"Dusting off the winter cobwebs never felt so good—here's to a safe, adventurous, and fun-filled riding season ahead!"
