The Calgary Regional Trail Riders don’t really ever stop. They move from backcountry rides to downtown parades dressed to the nines enduring hail, snow and hot temperatures with gracious smiles and waves. Director Ted Doan mind reads pretty well. He came up with additional educational courses that everyone thought would be useful without always saying an awful lot, just assumed — naturally — that we all would love them.

In the new year, plans are in the works for courses on feet and trimming, first aid for horses and riders, how to ride safely in trail groups. Starting December ’09 there are monthly gymkhanas, with summer plans for several weekend rides with new venues, and increased regular day ride schedules already being planned.

Parties are always important to this crowd. We just finished the wind-up-to-Christmas held at the Shawnessy Barn. (If you work in the barn kitchen the names of the cows and goats are still up there on its historical walls in this rent-to-the-public facility). The “official” Christmas bash was celebrated at the Wild West Centre in late November, again with dinner and live music to practice all that dancing that makes for supple riding.

“Fun was had by all,” smiled Lynn Brunton, “We had some horse (hobby!) races, fire, good food and good cheer to wind-up our year.” The 2010 official kick-off party gallops in June with a gymkhana, a camp out at Millarville Race Track and a Saturday night with dinner and dancing to live music. Sunday’s wake-up time afterwards has — cough — yet to be announced!

Several directors are moving on as a part of the club’s natural evolution and bylaws. The always-popular Zack Straker takes over as president from April Walters, retiring after her two-year contribution. Les Zaharichuk moves in as vice-president, with former VP, Judy Bailey freed up and already, joyously planning more backcountry trips. Lynn Brunton takes on Shannon Rector’s final year as social director. Ted Doan continues as education director, Tricia Sterner as the club’s new secretary and Ally Dunham, double-checking her early morning alarm clock, is the new parade director. Member Diane Smathers collaborated with Alison Douglas (AEF Trail Supporters) and the Friends of Kananaskis for trail clearing by the Sandy McNabb Equestrian campgrounds late summer. Casino funding went to terrific causes.

It’s been quite the year! The first official club meeting of 2010 will be held at Spruce Meadows on Tuesday, Jan. 27. Non-members are always welcome. For more information visit www.calgaryregionaltrailriders.com. Cathy Hamlen will be the new media writer-in-residence, so make sure to send her all your news and large-file photographs well before those HORSES ALL deadline dates!