Arizona Fox Trotter Association

6^th ANNUAL NATIONAL TRAIL RIDE
Bumblebee, Arizona

Ok, I continue to be amazed!  Each year we say this was “the best National Trail Ride” ever. So how do you judge which year is best?  This year, I feel that again, this was by far the Best National Trail Ride ever! 

What made it so special?  Could it have been the wonderful amenities at historic Bumblebee Ranch?  The welcome covered pavilion to dance the night away?  How about the nightly entertainment by our singing cowgirl Sue Barr?  Or the beautiful trails that offered something for everyone?  Challenging trails for our riders who enjoy a challenge?  The quiet meandering trails for the riders who enjoy meandering?  Maybe it was the sandy washes for gaiting those fabulous ground-eating Foxtrotters?  Or was it the food that made this such a memorable ride?  Don’t forget all those great raffle items!  All this was presented by 11 hard working, ever smiling, hard riding committee members.

This year we were fortunate to be able to arrive early to get our horses legged up before the actual ride began.  A lot of our riders arrived as early as Monday.  Some of us drove up to Rock Springs to enjoy their tasty Bar-b-q followed by mouth watering homemade pie. (ala mode, of course)  Our guests enjoyed the huge level parking area with water right to our camping spots.  However, you had to either get up early or stand in line to enjoy the nice hot shower!  The huge clean restrooms were also quite a treat.  Kelly, our ranch hostess, was always eager to help out or offer assistance if needed.  Oh, and how about those beautiful name badges personally handcrafted by our talented Nancy Howle?  What a great souvenir they make.  Our t-shirts were also quite a hit with everyone and we were able to sell the extras.

Everyone has warned us that we have “raised the bar” for future rides.  Well guess what?  We’re up to the challenge!  Next year we’re planning on having the “Best National Trail Ride” ever!  So stay tuned!  Be there! 2008!