Ridecamp: [RC] Mariposa "Run For The Gold"

This ride was terrific.  The weather was a little humid in the afternoon,
which is unsual. Even with the humidity, no horses were treated on this
ride.  The riders took care of their horses.
	 I live here and haven't been riding much and I was even impressed with the
beauty of the area.  I rode my 23 year old Witez II mare, Kisha and we
completed in 21st place out of 47 riders (not official).  The first 25 was
great.  The afternoon loop had one steep climb. I blew it on this climb and
allowed my horse to go faster than she should have up it.  I was really
worried about her.  However, the gals I rode with, Peggy DeBuyser and Katee
Owens(Advantage Saddles)helped me and we walked a while and made it to the
vet check.  At the vet check it was a different story.  Kisha went into
overdrive and and kept getting stronger the longer the ride went.  Yes, the
second loop of the second half was relatively flat and Kisha could do a
relaxed trot which left her with plenty of energy. It's too bad that I
didn't have alot of energy like her.  I was flat exhausted!  I learned alot
on this ride.  This was only my 2nd 50 miler and this mare's 1st 50.  I know
now the secret to endurance is pace your horse, pace your horse, pace your
horse AND get YOUR BODY in shape!
  By the way Kisha is the grandmother to my Dr Thunderbask+// Filly, 6 week
old true black, Mariah.
	Thanks to the Mariposa Mountain Riders and ride managers Jim and Joanne
Dietz for putting on the ride.  Thanks to Leigh and Sherry Gamble for
delicious food both Friday and Saturday. A special "Thank You" to all the
riders who participated in the 4-H Equine Group, silent auction.  The kids
made $477.00 and it looks like they will be going to the Grand Nationals at
the Cow Palace (San Francisco) in October.  And thank you volunteers for all
your support, water, snacks and time!

I'm looking forward to getting in shape and riding this ride next year!  See
you on the trails!
Mary Darlene Theodore - To Finish Is To Win!

P.S.  My friend Linda Dollar finished in 4th place. Her daughter, Deborah
Breshears finished in 5th place and Peggy DeBuyser finished 20th place. (Not
official.)


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