Saddle Sore Riders CLUB

Happy March Everyone,

It is hard to believe that spring is right around the corner. With the arrival of spring also comes the return of many riders who have been waiting for warmer weather, greener hills, and longer days to saddle up again. Spring also tends to bring new faces, people who are discovering trail riding for the first time or joining the Saddle Sore Riders for their very first meeting.

At our last meeting we welcomed five new members, and one common theme I heard from each of them afterwards was how friendly and welcoming everyone was. Many of you took the time before, during, and after the meeting to introduce yourselves, shake a hand, and genuinely connect. That simple act says a lot about who we are as an organization, and it made a strong impression. Thank you for continuing to make Saddle Sore Riders the kind of group where people immediately feel like they belong.

It’s also important to remember that every one of us was new at some point. Whether it was our first time riding in an arena, our first trail ride with a group, or the first time we nervously walked into a Saddle Sore meeting, we all remember what it felt like. As these new members begin joining us on rides, some may be experiencing their first group trail ride ever. This is where our club really shines.

Helping newer riders understand things like outriders, trail etiquette, spacing between horses, and what to expect on different types of terrain can make a huge difference in their confidence. A quick word of encouragement, answering a question, or connecting someone with a more experienced rider can turn a nervous first ride into a great experience. One of our goals on every ride is not only to have a great time but to make sure everyone comes back safely and wants to ride again.

Just as we encourage patience when training our horses, we should also show patience with new members. Horses learn best when given time, consistency, and encouragement. People are no different. By helping new members grow and gain confidence, we strengthen the future of our organization.

Some people occasionally ask why Saddle Sore Riders hosts so many different types of rides. We ride around the city, along riverbeds, in parades, and on overnight campouts in the hills, mountains, deserts, and around lakes. The simple answer is that we enjoy the adventure and the scenery but there is another benefit as well.

Variety is great training for our horses. Different trails, sights, sounds, and terrain provide valuable stimulation that helps develop a more confident, well-rounded horse. Exposure to new environments builds trust between horse and rider and prepares them for whatever they might encounter down the trail. In many ways, every ride becomes another opportunity for our horses and ourselves to learn something new.

As many of us start riding again after a slower winter season, it’s also a good time to do a quick tack and equipment check. Look over your saddle, stirrup leathers, cinches, and bridles. Make sure leather is still strong and secure and that nothing is worn or cracked. Horses can also lose weight during the winter months, so check saddle fit and adjust cinches or gear as needed. Taking a few minutes to inspect your tack helps ensure a safer and more comfortable ride for both you and your horse.

Spring is one of the best times of year to be out on the trail. The weather is beautiful, the days are getting longer, and the riding calendar starts filling up quickly. But beyond the rides themselves, what makes Saddle Sore Riders special is the friendships that grow along the way around campfires, on the trail, at meetings, and during the laughter shared before and after a ride.

Let’s continue doing what we do best: Welcoming new riders, supporting one another, enjoying great horses, and building lasting friendships.

I look forward to seeing you all on the trail.

Happy Riding,

Don Pettinger 

President

Saddle Sore Riders, Inc.®