It was well worth the wait. The event’s rain date on Sunday, April 6 proved to be cool and dry – perfect footing for The Tryon Hounds Annual Spring Hunter Pace event.
The trail preparation was done by the veterans of trail clearing. Nelson Minnick, this year nicknamed – ‘‘Rock Nelson’’ as he walked most of the seven-mile course in front of the Kubota throwing the native rocks left and right off the trail to prevent horses from stepping on them. Dean McKinney, Mike Axelrod and Don West, cut overhead growth and removed debris from the trail.
Hunter Pace Secretary Anne Pierce checked in the riders and Joey Cabiness was at the start and finish line and assured riders in his famous saying, ‘I’ll leave the light on’ as the riders departed on the course.Wes Moore and Don West made sure the trailers were properly parked for ease when leaving. And, as usual Skip Leck and Jim Sumrell were at the check point making sure all riders were served refreshments during their three-minute check.
Anita Williamson drove the PEER (Polk County Equine Emergency Rescue) trailer to the event for all to see and to be aware that the donated entry fee is well spent.
Brian Kerr, Head Chef at Bright’s Creek served a delicious lunch menu of sandwiches and wraps, potato salad, chips and cookies for all to enjoy.
A total of 85 riders participated. There were two in the Wings Division (fastest time).  The pace was set by Dean and Roberta McKinney at one hour and three minutes.The course was approximately seven miles in length and took riders over hilltops with incredible mountain views, creeks and the budding of spring was seen everywhere.
Winners this year were: Field Hunters – Sylvia Brown and Kelly Hart. Trail Riders: Kathe Burklow. In the Tryon Hounds division Cee Cee Wilmanns was first place in the Field Hunters and Becky Barnes and Rick Webel were first place in the Trail Riders.
For more results please visit www.wchpace.org

– article submitted
by Louise Hughston