By Caitlynn Brinkerhoff

Every year, over 750 members of the National Pony Express Association (NPEA) recreate the Pony Express Re-Ride over a 10-day period in June. Letters are carried in a mochila over the original tracks from St. Joseph, Missouri, to Sacramento, California, spanning 1,966 miles over eight states. 

The Nevada portion of the re-ride will take place from June 12-14. The NPEA is searching for riders for all trail sections, through all sorts of terrain, to ride day and night. 

Riders must be 14 years or older, and riders under 18 must have parental consent. A NPEA membership is required prior to the ride. The cost for riders is $40 annually before March 1 and $50 after. Riders must have a horse that they are responsible for and are capable of riding at a trot/canter for a distance of two to three miles on open trails. It is acceptable to have a “Shadow Rider” if the person does not want to go it alone. Both riders must be NPEA members. 

Riders must be at the designated location two hours prior to start and should be able to complete the ride in the allotted time. Riders must wear Pony Express Rider uniforms consisting of blue jeans, a long-sleeved red western shirt, chocolate brown vest, yellow scarf, boots, and western hat. Helmets are also acceptable. 

If you are interested in riding, contact nevadaponyexpress@gmail.com. You can also visit www.nevadaponyexpress.org to view the application.