Wednesday, February 23, 2022 – Cracker Ride Day Four

Hey Babe,
Another early morning, this time a bit rushed because evidently they sent out a text (I’ve yet to receive a single text despite the fact I’ve tried to sign up several times) saying we were leaving early, never got it. I was ready early anyway, but still felt rushed. The latest camp is another cow pasture, but at least this one had some trees, so I found a little shade, and got pointed in the right direction to catch the best breezes today. Got back to the first camp and headed out on the “trail” which was entirely road roading, though it diverted for a short time through a neighborhood. We stopped at another elementary school and took on water and entertained the kids, though Flash wasn’t that into it so I pulled him aside. They had to shut down U.S. 27 to let us pass, and there were a lot of bystanders cheering us on, it was a regular parade. Apparently that’s the official halfway point of the ride. Flash was acting up a little this morning, but I managed to settle him down by running in a few circles and then backing him up occasionally when he tried to go too fast, and it was working, until I was told that I couldn’t do that anymore. So I waited until we got to the lunch spot, made sure I was very clear of the wagons, and then galloped him across the field to run his energy out before stopping at the water trough. Then I was told I couldn’t do THAT. So I can’t be up front out of the way, I can’t be behind the group out of the way, I can’t run alongside the group, I can’t spin circles, I can’t back him up and I can’t run him in an open field. This despite the fact that numerous times this morning they were MAKING us gallop to bunch up together, and throughout the day, but as far as I know, I’m the only one being chastised for it. I also can’t throw a frisbee for Lola once we get back to camp, unless she’s kept on her cable. If you’re getting the idea that I’m getting a bit frustrated, you’d be right. I finally spent the afternoon sandwiched between two other Pasos, one ridden by Augie who did the OTL, and another guy names Wayne, and as long as I was boxed in and kept Flash on a very tight rein, he managed to settle a bit for the rest of the ride. It looks like that may be the only way manage him without pissing off the organizers, though a lot of the other participants have shown empathy, I’ve heard a lot of stories about other riders having similar problems with their own horses in the past. I came into this with an open mind, despite the knowledge of the road riding, but the organizers have not been very welcoming, or communicative. I’ve asked for help three times to get on their texting list, and I kept getting passed around, and the one who was supposed to help never did. I did finally get a text tonight, so maybe they fixed it, but it’s not a very good system. I mean, they sent out a text at around 4:30 that dinner wouldn’t be served until 6:30, so it’s hard to make any plans. VERY glad I didn’t sign up for the meal plan. I have no interest in the socializing aspect of this ride, I’m here for the riding, so I suppose I’m missing out on the spirit of the thing, but again, the organizers have just made me feel unwelcome, so my approach has been to just stay out of everybody’s way. Check it off the bucket list, that’s about all I’ll be able to say when it’s done. I’m heading to shower and bed very soon, as it’s only getting a full eight hours of sleep that’s keeping me going right now, or else I’d be REALLY crabby! Good night, sweetheart! Love you!

Speak Your Mind

*