Split Reins Trail Ride

Huge Success Heralds Future Annual Events

Organizers of Del Rio/Val Verde County’s “Split Reins Trail Ride” say there may have been as many as 500 people or more taking part in the event, which stretched an estimated 12 miles, from Laughlin Air Force Base to a set of soccer fields located in what may be the busiest part of the city, next to the local Wal-Mart off of Veteran’s Blvd.

The Ride’s Beginning, just West of the Entrance to Laughlin AFB, on Highway 90

With events like these, accurate counts are difficult with riders and followers in vehicles dropping in and out of the procession at various times, but a very large number was on hand by the time riders and horses arrived at the endpoint with grill-teams, music, and refreshments waiting.

Thanks to an assist from a photographical correspondent at the head of the trail, and our own camera at the end of it, we have no shortage of photos to share, and will be dropping them in throughout the newsletter.

Ride’s End, Soccer Fields on Veteran’s Blvd, adjacent to Wal-Mart

The main organizer of the event, Miguel Zuniga— from a town called Comstock, in Val Verde County— whipped things together in a very short time. Whipped. Pun unintentional, but we’re leaving it, since the whole thing is in response to the false controversy and accusations that mounted border patrol agents were whipping Haitians during the recent humanitarian crisis.

Zuniga put things together on short notice. The event that prompted it was about 2 weeks ago. He says he expected he might have 50 participants, and has been blown away by the responses, including inquiries about future sponsorship from Professional Bull Riders — a pro-sporting league— Stetson Hats, Resistol, and others. Zuniga says the event grew so large so quickly, it went from being a private effort on his part, to an official 501 3c charitable undertaking by the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce, and will become one of several major events the Chamber does every year.

From the Wal-Mart Next Door, Before Most Riders Arrive. Grills can be seen to the right. Out of frame, an 18-Wheeler and Trailer from the Val Verde County Motor Pool.

So, save the date, first weekend of October— cowboys and cowgirls will be coming to Del Rio to show their support for law-enforcement.

Yours truly spoke with a LaSalle County Deputy Sheriff taking part in the ride on his time off. His two horses were especially popular with the kids— especially “Macky,” an extra-friendly ride. “He thinks he’s a dog,” said Deputy Ricky Galvan, USMC Ret. As a dogman, this correspondent can attest it is so, as Macky seemed torn between affection and cropping some tasty grass beneath our feet.

At Ride’s End. LaSalle County Deputy Sheriff Ricky Galvan, USMC Master Sergeant, Ret. “Macky” is the canine-minded equine with his muzzle in the water.

Another Sheriff’s Deputy was in attendance as a rider, from Zavala County, and we saw signage indicating folks had come down from the Permian Basin area to participate as well.

“I strongly feel it can go somewhere,” said Mr. Zuniga— clearly tired, but proud— even glowing, as he surveyed the field full of families, horses, and happy people. He says next year he’d like to have a chuckwagon cook-off and even live bands, setting the stage for an all-day and night affair in the years to come perhaps.

Fresh Experiences for Young & Old. Just one of the enthusiastic youngsters getting up close and personal with the horses.

There were a few border patrol agents on hand, off duty for the event. But, it’s a sad fact of the times, that most agents are so busy working extra shifts these days they barely have time for themselves. It’s also the case that most are not allowed to speak to reporters in their capacity as agents. The ride’s end was only a few blocks from the Sector’s headquarters, however, so it’s a sure bet that workers at the agency are well aware of the community’s support.

Monday will be busy— it’s a big deadline for our work at the Kinney County Post. There may be a newsletter, there might not, depending on events. We hope to quiz county leaders on if there are plans to try and resurrect the NGO bus embargo in Kinney County.

Kinney County Moves to Block NGO Traffic

But that line of inquiry may wind up overtaken by the events of the day. Until then, we hope our next newsletter finds you healthy, happy, and ready for whatever else finds you.