By CATHERINE LEGG / Community Columnist

Twenty-five adventurous ladies rode their horses along beautiful trails and enjoyed visiting with each other at Stamps Farm in Montevallo on a gorgeous Thursday recently. They are loosely called “The Ladies Riding Group,” but some of their husbands refer to them as “The Leatherbritches.”

The riders’ own comments best describe their exciting day.

“I had soooo much fun,” said Nancy Locey. “Blessed are we that God created horses for us to love and to share.”

“To leave the pavement behind and ‘partner’ with your horse and friends is the best medicine for whatever ails ya,” quipped Denise George.

Laurie Flayhart added, “I love my horsey friends because there seems to be a different kind of connection immediately through our horses that develops into precious friendships that last!”

Linda Stockman’s comment was “Riding refreshes our spirits and strengthens us for whatever is coming down the trail.”

And Carlene Ozley admitted, “My horse allows me to be a child again, and enjoy running and galloping with the breeze in my face.

Michele Hill was remembering the day when she said, “Wow! Beverly Stamps gave us a wonderful end to a great day with an incredible lunch of chicken salad, fresh cut fruit and chocolate roulade.”

Some of the other riders enjoying the day were Debbie Sullivan, Evelyn Stanley, Cynthia Hanson, Lynn Frazier, Susan Fulmer, Libby Shackelford, Lizzy Sexton, and Linda Thompson. Others were Elaine Beiersdoerfer, Sara McMillan, Donna Maye West, Gale Carson, Donna Pierce, Judith Crowe, Kathy Beechy, Harriet Van Ryan, Sandy Pegram, Kay Murer, Mae Goggans, and Tamara Baldwin.

Most of the ladies were from the wider Montevallo area, but some came as far as 75 miles.

Although the group is not an organized club, Debbie Sullivan coordinates most of the rides. She also offers trail rides at her 300 acre farm in Thorsby. Weekend moon light rides are scheduled for Sept. 27-29, and Oct. 26-27. A Veterans Day ride to include children is also on her calendar.

Those interested in riding with the group or in any of the other activities may call Debbie at 668-0335.

 

Catherine Legg can be reached by email at clegg2@bellsouth.net.