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2006-2007 Orange Book: Internet Directory |
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You might almost think of them as square dancers on horseback. Since 1986 the Rainbow Riders, precision riders, have performed highly intricate maneuvers to music at rodeos all over California, Arizona and Nevada. Similar to a square dance team, the riders do designs in the horse arena on the run. According to founder Dottie Pierce, they practice during the winter, twice a week, and during the summer, once a week on Tuesday nights, at the Fred Grand Arena. The team has about twenty members, although it performs with 12. They have members in different states of training. Similar to drill teams that do square dancing on horseback, the Rainbow Riders do square dance type maneuvers, but expand on them and increase the speed. Like a band going out onto a football field, but at a run. Precision is very important. "It's a dangerous pastime. If someone is out of place and doesn't have the proper spacing you can get in an accident," says Pierce. Locally the Rainbow riders have performed at the Del Mar Night of the Horse, and as an opening act at the annual Del Mar Horse Show. They performed in the film "Horses & Champions," filmed three years ago and released in Europe. During the Gulf War they performed at Camp Pendleton for troops returning from Desert Storm, and before Soviet sailors visiting the U.S. on a good will tour. They do anywhere from ten to 14 rodeos and up to 40 performances a year. While rodeo is a year round sport, most of the rodeos in this region take place between April-November. The Rainbow Riders are a non-profit group. All the money they raise goes to provide lodging, uniforms and transportation. They generally don't do regular fund-raisers, but they have been known to put on a poker ride or two. "We are always looking for riders over 18 years old, they must have their own horse," says Pierce. "The group has people from all walks of life: teachers, accountants, business people." "We have a lot of fun. Some people just ride to be part of the group, and don't care to perform. So it's like a social club too." For information write to the Rainbow Riders, P.O. Box 687, Ramona CA 92065 or call 788-4594.
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