The MTRA sponsored 5 regional rides scattered around

Minnesota on Saturday, May 14, 2011. The “5 Star Ride” had a

few different outcomes, but among most of the riders, and the

phone calls I received, it was agreed that it was a great opportunity

to meet other MTRA members and equine enthusiasts, some

as close as your own back door, and be able to enjoy a day of riding

together.

Unfortunately, Mother Nature had other plans for the day all

around Minnesota. According to Wanda Hanson, BOD, Trail Ride

Chair, at the Upper Sioux Agency State Park, the weather played

a part all day long keeping riders in camp – down at Hay Creek, it

was cold and soggy – riders enjoyed a 21/2 hour ride and a delicious

pot luck according to Kris Patten, BOD, Treas. Betty White,

BOD, was the hostess for 9 riders at Maplewood State Park where

they did enjoy some riding. I was at the Sand Dunes where we

rode with 5 other riders. Riders came from Milacs and others from

the Big Lake area who had not ridden at the Sand Dunes for

years. It was an afternoon of riding in the drizzle, but we found

many new trails to appreciate in the area. In northern Minnesota,

Ken Olson, BOD, found it cool but mostly sunny at the Togo Horse

Camp where he had 11 riders from Deerwood, Orr, Duluth,

International Falls and Angora including DNR Park Manager for

Mc Carthy Beach SP, Togo and Stony Brook Horse Camps, Jenny

Eastvold, and Gene Eastvold, DNR Trail Technician. For those

familiar......and camp sites at Togo. Jenny and Gene spent time

exchanging information on the camps and new trailsat Stony

Brook with the riders, along with enjoying the potluck supper.

Riders were also informed that the trail from Togo to Stony Brook

is open.

For some riders it was a day of firsts, the first time out to ride

this Spring, and the first time to ride in a different area. Even

though the conditions weren't perfect, we all enjoyed the riding

and the great company.

We hope to see you out on the trails soon!