When is the Catalina ride? We hold it every year in the fall.
Can anyone attend the Catalina ride? No, The Catalina ride is for adult horsewomen, 21 and over. Also, in order to attend, a new rider must be sponsored by an existing member.
Why do new riders need a sponsor? A sponsor acts like a big sister to introduce new riders to the group. The sponsor is also familiar with the trails and rules of riding on Catalina. We want to make sure new riders are well prepared for the challenging island experience.
Are the mainland rides for women only? No, many of our members bring their husbands or friends on the mainland rides.
How much does the Catalina ride cost? We are a non-profit corporation, so there is no profit figured into our ride fee. Expenses per rider vary based on barge fees, fuel charges, food and feed costs, etc. For that reason, we are unable to come up with a set figure until approximately two months before the ride.
What kind of activities are there on the Catalina ride? We start off with a mixer on opening night to help everyone get to know each other before the ride begins. We offer multiple trail options based on the experience and comfort level of our riders and horses, with an emphasis on having fun, but doing it safely. We have guitar music around the campfire, and a “Free Day” where riders can stay in camp, lay on the beach, go for a ride, etc. We have the one and only "No Talent" Talent Show. We also have a silent auction. For an additional fee, we offer Cowgirl Camp at Blackjack. Our ride is totally customizable. If you want to ride a lot and rest a little, you can. If you want to ride a little and rest a lot, you can do that too.
What is the food like? Sit back and relax ladies…our ride is fully catered. The food is delicious…and nutritious. We have light and healthy breakfasts and special dietary requests can be submitted before the Ride. Our lunches vary from a packed lunch on the trail to a scrumptious taco salad and more. Our dinners begin with appetizers during cocktail hour, followed by a delicious entree and a mouthwatering desert.
Will I have “hat hair” for the entire week? We're glad you asked. Although we are at a remote campsite on the beach, we bring in trailers with hot showers, and our generators provide electricity during the day for blow dryers and cell phone chargers.
Is there a farrier on the ride? No. We recommend that you have your horse shod two weeks before the ride. Catalina Island is rocky with lots of hills, dirt roads and trails. If your horse has tough hooves and is used to going barefoot, we recommend your horse’s hooves be in good shape and that you bring easy boots in case you need them during the ride.
If I am asked to be a member, is there a membership fee? Yes, our annual club dues are $95 per year.
Are there membership privileges? Yes, membership definitely has its privileges. Members receive an annual ride book with photos and contact information of all our members, photos of the previous year's ride, and information on the island. They receive a e-newsletter, and discounts on the Spring Ride and logowear.
I’ve seen Las Caballeras pins. How can I get one? They are available as a gift to riders on the Catalina ride, and they change each year, in keeping with the ride
theme and color. Each rider receives
a ride gift pack, which contains that year’s ride pin, a ride book, a ride nametag, and a ride gift.
Is there someone I can contact for more information? Yes, you can send us an email from the Contact page. We’ll get back to you as soon as we can, usually within 24 hours.