The Saddle Up For St. Jude trail ride was another huge success.  This year the ride was hosted at The Gray ranch near Orin Junction.  There were 22 riders coming from Lusk, Douglas, Crawford and Guernsey.  Three young children were among the riders, one still in diapers!  We had a special treat in that we were given a tour of the original house on the property.  It was full of antiques and beautifully kept up.

Everyone enjoyed the challenge of crossing the Platte though some riders and their horses had never crossed water before.  One rider knew her horse well, and was ready when he decided a nice roll in the water would feel great.  It was exciting to watch!  We also rode along the ridge over looking the Platte and saw a monument built there in memory of a young girl who fell from the bridge and drowned.  The area is full of history and it was a great opportunity to ride through it.  

All together we collected over $3700 and checks are still coming in.  I think I say this every year, but I believe this was one of our best years yet.  If you’ve never attended a ride, you might think about joining us next year.  We already had a local ranch volunteer to be host.  This is a great way to ride and see property in beautiful Niobrara County that you wouldn’t normally get a chance to see.  The ride is always slow and easy, and lasts about 2-3 hours.  If you’d like to host a ride that would be great too!  Contact Carla at 307-267-7901.  

 Thank you Lusk and surrounding communities for being so generous!  What a great cause, what a great ride.