Trail Trials FAQ
What is the Memorial Trail Trials?
Many years ago, a group of WSMOA members decided to compete against each other in memory of fallen WSMOA members. Today this tradition continues in their honor, and we honor other fallen mounted officers and horses as well. We have a remembrance ceremony on the morning of the Trail Trials.
Now tell me what it is!
Trail Trials is an obstacle course challenge. You will compete against other horse/rider pairs over a variety of obstacles. The course is laid out partially in two covered arenas and partially over the adjacent five acres. You will ride out in small groups and tackle the obstacles one person at a time with your group.
Do I have to be on a team?
You are not required to be on a team, however, there are team prizes. You are not required to physically ride with your team. Simply pick three other people and your scores will be grouped together. The highest scoring team will win. Teams may be a mix of any four riders, regardless of their designation (LEO, SAR, etc..) You can register with your team or create a team at the event check-in. If you want to be on a team and don’t have one, we will help you find one!
What is the speed event?
The speed event is included in your registration. The obstacle course portion of the event will take place on Saturday morning and then break for lunch. After lunch, several obstacles will be set up in the arena. Anyone who wants to try their hand at speed obstacles is encouraged to do so. You do NOT have to gallop the event, you may walk/trot if you like. The fastest time takes the prize! If you don’t want to participate, stall your horse, grab a chair, and come cheer the others on!
What is the Saturday Dinner all about?
On Saturday evening, we host a dinner. Your meal ticket is included in your registration. You are welcome to have friends and family attend. Extra meal tickets are available. Email Catarino Gonzalez at gonzalezcwsmoa@gmail.com by June 1 if you are bringing guests. At the Dinner, we have a raffle. Riders are encouraged to donate an item to the raffle. The Dinner is the official awards ceremony as well. Not to be missed!
Is there a Dinner on Friday night?
Yes! On Friday night, our host agency puts on an event that benefits their unit. This year our host agency is the Riverside Sheriff’s Office. They will be organizing a cornhole tournament, a small intimate BBQ, and social hour. Let us know if you are planning on participating. Payment for this event is paid to the Riverside Sheriff’s Unit on arrival on Friday night.
What about stalls and camping?
Stalls are available for both Friday and Saturday nights and are included as part of your registration fee. If you would like to reserve a stall, please email Catarino Gonzalez at gonzalezcwsmoa@gmail.com.
Camping Fees:
$50 dry camping
$75 hook-up camping
$95 hook-up camping with septic
A limited number of full hook-up camping spots are available, which can be paid directly through California Ranch Company at (951) 297-7150.
What about my horse and tack?
Definitely bring a horse and tack. You may not ride bareback or in a bareback pad. You must have a saddle on your horse. Western and English tack is allowed. You are also required to wear closed-toed, heeled riding boots. Helmets are recommended but not required for adults. Youth must wear approved riding helmets whenever mounted.
If a horse and/or rider is deemed unsafe for any reason, you and/or your horse will kindly be asked not to participate in any portion of the events. If a refund is requested, the Board will have the ultimate decision to reimburse a participant; otherwise, there are no refunds. Additionally, no stallions are allowed whatsoever.
Questions?
Email Catarino Gonzalez at gonzalezcwsmoa@gmail.com.