Roundup Riders
In July of 2023, Ginger Quill Ranch had the privilege of hosting the Roundup Riders of the Rockies (3R) organization on their 75th annual ride. The 3R organization is dedicated to the perpetuation of the Western tradition associated with the relationship between the American Cowboy and his horse. The organization is also strongly dedicated to the promotion, advancement, and prosperity of the State of Colorado and the preservation and utilization of our public lands and trails for the benefit of all citizens. They also support the National Western Scholarship Trust, which annually awards over 80 scholarships to undergraduate and medical students from Colorado and Wyoming.
Members of the Riders come from over 15 different states ranging from Connecticut to California. This diverse family-based group includes ranchers, farmers, business people, physicians, law enforcement officers, retired members of the US Forest Service, attorneys, and other professionals. All share a common appreciation and respect of the American West, conservation, environment, and love of horses (and the occassional mule).
Their annual, week-long horseback ride in the Colorado Rockies is a challenging experience emphasizing horsemanship in the environment of camaraderie. It is an experience shared among enduring friends. The riders passed through Ginger Quill Ranch on July 22nd going north, and again on July 26th going south. Can you imagine the spectacle of 150 mounted riders and two pack teams meandering down the hill above our compound, crossing the causeway, and up the hill toward the North Pasture gate. It was a parade of the most beautiful horses of all breeds: Palominos, Buckskins, Apaloosas, Quarter Horses, Morgans. . .
Board members Chip Bates, Adam Jaspers, and Betty Stewart were invited to a chuckwagon supper with the Riders on July 26th. The 3R organization presented the ranch with a plaque in appreciation of allowing the Riders to trail through our ranch. It was a great opportunity to meet and talk with the Riders in person. One Rider was on his 57th annual ride at the age of 90. He uses a stool to mount his Palomino, but can dismount unaided. Another member was on his 32nd ride and is a retired forest service officer. He loves Quarter Horses, but this year he rode a Tennessee Walker for a smoother ride. We met a first-year member (a colt), who was so happy to be a part of the group. A person becomes a rider through invitation only. The cost of the ride is $10,000 per person, and although the Riders are treated well, a lot of the money is contributed to their charity projects.