About the Team
(pre-trip)
Linda Losey is an experienced horsewoman. She has been participating in over night trail rides since she was a child and has been conditioning for this ride (according to the Long Riders Guild guidelines), as well as riding approximately 10 miles every other day. She is currently on the Board of Directors of Equine Rescue and Rehabilitation, Inc. (ERRI), and has rehabilitated Val, the quarter horse she will be riding. Linda has been working with Val for the last four years. Val is absolutely incredible (fearless with a huge heart) when it comes to listening to Linda (and vice versa). The second horse, Rocky, is a Tennessee Walker who has competed in both the show ring and in field trials. He is used to going at a rack for hours at a time, and was specifically purchased for the long ride. Both horses have been vetted and received Health Certificates from a reputable veterinarian, Dr. Michael Harrison, who routinely deals with race horses.
Linda will be riding the cavalry method, which is riding at a walk for 50 minutes, 10 minute water and rest break, 50 minute ride at walk, 10 minute break, ... 1 hour break for lunch, water, and rest, then an additional 3 hours as in the morning. The team will ride for approximately 6 hours per day, being on the road for 7 hours including lunch. Initially the team will start with 5 - 10 miles per day, depending on conditions (and buttocks). Once they get further into the trip, they hope to average 20 miles/day, completing the trip in 9-10 months.
We have also been fortunate with great support. See the home page for links to our sponsors. The Horse Saddle Bags and Horse Packing Equipment was provided in part by Outfitters Supply.