FROM: Mary Cone, Keith County, Nebraska Trail Captain
PST
The 2017 XP Re-Ride in Keith County, Nebraska, went very well. Late afternoon and early evening thunderstorms threatened to shunt our path off of the gravel roads and onto pavement (not for the horses, of course, but for the trailer rigs) but little rain fell and the Re-Ride trail was navigable the whole 43.5 mile distance. There was still a light cloud cover, but the 98% moon shown through enough to greatly help us see.
The North Platte Riders brought the mail 9 miles extra for our section, as we were a bit short on riders for our group again this year. Thanks, Matt!! The Nebraska Riders had steadily gained time from Ft. Kearny since early Wednesday morning. We really appreciated the extra time, as we had new riders and horses this year (and some who are getting older ☺).
Mary C. and Hot Chex took the mochila from Matt and arrived south of Roscoe at about 11:35pm MDT, Wednesday. From there, the mochila was transferred to horses Azarie, Shiny Colonel, Yeller, Cocoa, Poncho, Drop Cloth, Maxine and Clyde. Their Riders were Cathy, Mary C., Angie, Elkanah, Michelle and Mary E. The XP oath was given to all the XP members, including driver members Mary Dale and Howard. Mochila signing was done, also.
Speaking of which, the mochila rides great this year! Wonderful job, Lyle, Nebraska Division President! Nebraska is so especially proud to be the huge presence this year by designing the mochila, the Re-Ride pin and commemorative letter — and also hosting convention in September, as we are celebrating the state’s 150th birthday of statehood! The Re-Ride pin is the color of the sesquicentennial logo, blue and gold. The commemorative letters will tell you all about the Great Platte River Road through the state and its historical significance. The sesquicentennial seal highlights the Platte, as well as Chimney Rock — which is featured both on the ride pin and on the two hind cantinas of this year’s mochila. I say again, GREAT JOB, Lyle!!
Our Re-Ride passed by Tri-Trails Park, south of Ogallala, about 12:38am MDT Thursday, where the intrepid local newspaper reporter was there to chronicle the mochila exchange and Re-Ride story. We rode on, to south of Brule, past the original Diamond Springs Station location, about 2:11am MDT. Our arrival south of Big Springs to hand over to the Colorado Riders was slightly behind schedule, about 3:54am MDT. Our aim was 3:30am.
I want to extend a HUGE pat on the back to Petra for her work on the website, making the tracking device work so well, and keeping us all informed—so close to real time. I checked the maps and rider times repeatedly prior to our ride to see how The Pony was tracking. Great job, Petra!! Thanks a million!