FROM: Mary Cone, National Pony Express Assn Insurance Coordinator/Trail Captain
PST
The Pony and mochila arrived south of Paxton, Nebraska at 5:57pm MDT, running about a half-hour late. The weather was warm, in the 80’s and very windy, 20-30mph out of the south. A few clouds danced in the sky to offer occasional shade.
President Jim Swigart and wife Ginger arrived prior to the Pony and Jim administered the NPEA oath to the riders.
Angie took off, heading into the west in a cloud of dust. She, Adam, Bill, Kristy, Howard, Donna, Mary Dale, Don, Russell and Mary then took turns carrying the mochila for the next 43 miles of Nebraska XP Trail.
We hit Tri-Trails Park south of Ogallala, Nebraska at 7:41pm MDT. The local newspaper was there with camera in hand to capture the exchange.
The ride went smoothly, with no untoward incidences. A deer jumped up and ran parallel to Mary Dale and Casper as they rode one stretch. Later, after darkness had descended on the trail, a raccoon crossed the road in front of Mary and HC, then became concerned and returned right back in front of the pair. Horse and raccoon were both a bit befuddled and the incident was very comical to the humans observing!
We had a first in my experience……two “XP Groupies”. Vicki and Patti from Missouri had been following the Pony since St. Joseph and continued with us during our trek. They provided some delightful company and useful vehicle flashers for us, especially after dark. Thanks to them for watching out for the Pony and having our back!
Darkness descended on us at about Brule, Nebraska. The waxing moon helped guide the way as the ride continued on to south of Big Springs, Nebraska, where the mochila was handed over to the Colorado Riders at 10:27pm MDT, on schedule. It’s always nice to finish a ride on time and safe. God speed to riders on down the trail to Sacramento!!