Riding with Reed

SWTRA offers tips, horse talk and trail adventure

By SANDY LONG

GREENTOWN, PA — When June Reed turns 80 next year, there will be a big party. Big guests will be invited—Appaloosas, Palominos, Paints, Standardbreds and Thoroughbreds, for starters. Of course, their owners can come, too, and there will be cake and cards, carrots and talk of horse tack. But there won’t be much sitting around.

Despite two hip replacements, Reed loves to ride. She helped to found the non-profit organization, Southern Wayne Trail Riders Association (SWTRA), to support this passion. After a lifetime of loving horses, Reed has no intention of letting her eighth decade keep her from her favorite pastime.

Established in 1966 as a non-profit equestrian organization, SWTRA’s primary focus is to promote trail riding, establish and maintain trails for equestrian use, advance the welfare of horses and educate the public about all of it. Rides are scheduled from April to September, and the group publishes a newsletter and a members’ directory, so people can stay in touch or turn to one another for resources or services.

SWTRA vice president Gerrie Wanat, of Hawley, became a member of the organization because she likes to be with people who like being with horses. Wanat said that the group is looking forward to celebrating Reed’s 80th birthday next year and that Reed is a tireless advocate for horses and the people who love them.

“She won’t hesitate to meet with important government officials to fight for our rights and to protect the lands available to riders,” said Wanat. “She stands up for the horse, and I admire her for her gumption.”

Some members of the group gathered recently for their first ride of the season, an easy trail in Promised Land State Park, Greentown, PA that wouldn’t tax the horses too much. Robert and Emily Ott from East Stroudsburg, PA, brought Fabio, a Hanovarian, and Twister, a Palomino quarter horse. The couple said that they value the camaraderie that occurs on the rides between people with the same interests.

Rose Baglia and David Ford of West Town, NY rode Cisco, a Tennessee Walker, and Liberty Bell, a Rocky Mountain horse. Both are particularly smooth-gaited horses, and therefore ideal for trail riding.

Expectant father Salute, a Missouri Fox Trotter, was brought by his owner, Penny Reining, of Lake Ariel, PA. Reining’s family breeds the bounce-free Missouri Fox Trotters and said that Salute’s foals were due to be born that day. Reining’s parents, who also breed miniature horses, were founding members of SWTRA.

At a seminar for horse owners held earlier this year, Reed offered an hour of helpful advice accumulated over a lifetime of riding trails in various areas of the United States as well as abroad. She distributed a pamphlet prepared by SWTRA that lists “Some Do’s and Don’ts of Trail Riding,” along with “Horse Health Tips.” It’s the kind of learning that SWTRA members gain by participating in group rides. For example, “Don’t take a fat, unconditioned horse out of pasture and expect him to put in strenuous days without preparation.”

Other more homespun advice is offered: “If your horse has a tendency to be cranky and/or a kicker, don’t ride him so close to the group that others are in danger. Do tie a red ribbon in his tail as a warning.”

Tips on riding technique are shared: “Don’t be a dead weight on your horse’s back. Do change position.” Trail etiquette is taught: “Don’t pass the trail boss. It is a matter of good manners.” Common sense is encouraged: “On a hot day, don’t make your horse stand out in the sun if there is shade available. Do be as considerate of him as you are of yourself.”

And finally, “Don’t be a chronic complainer. All the comforts of home will not be available on the trail. If you can’t cope with a few inconveniences, do stay at home.”

On the other hand, if you love horses and like being around other horse people, consider joining the organization, which offers the kind of practical information that horse owners find helpful.

Membership in SWTRA is $15 per year and is open to any interested individuals. Monthly meetings are conducted and new members are encouraged to attend. For more information, contact SWTRA at PO Box 323, Greentown, PA 18426 or call Reed at 570/676-0417.