MEETING HORSES ON THE ROAD

The one thing I long for during the winter months, is trail rides that last for hours! This past Sunday broke in the start of what will be a great season for trail riding.

Pascal and myself headed out from Crystal Clear stables for a nice Sunday afternoon trail ride. Pascal riding Spinner and myself on the infamous, Chelsea Buns.

The weather was more then awesome! There was no wind, rain, bugs and all the little things that can spoil a good trail ride. There was just sun and the sound of nature.

Trail rides always offer many expected happenings, but one of the things I run into the most is ignorant drivers. Ignorant as in just plain not understanding how to react when you come upon riders. Horses being the fickle creatures they are, are unpredictable and ANYONE who is driving and comes past a horse and it's rider PLEASEEEEEEEEEEEEE slow down. I can't stress how important that is!

If a vehicle doesn't slow down (this includes, cars, trucks, bikes you name it!), it can not only spoke the horse, it can throw rocks that will cause severe damage to horse and or rider! This just spells out a total diseaster for all! The horse may even kick at your vehicle.

Beeping your horn to warn us your coming is not a very bright idea either. Sure, a lot of horse on the trail are generally quiet and not bothered by a lot but there are still horses that are, so please don't beep the horn or yell and scream etc.

Also, did you know it is the law, if a rider signals you to stop, YOU MUST!

Myself as a rider, I always respect people's property and take care when riding on roads, so it would much appreciated if others who meet us on the roads, took the care as well.

Ride with the wind @

www.equinenorth.net