Equestrian Group Still Riding High

Under a blazing sun, a troop of young riders performed the intricate mounted drill formations they have learned as members of the California Rangers Post I.

With patience and precision, the military-style equestrians guided their horses through a series of patterns to the delight of the crowd watching from the bleachers at Osborne Riding Stables.

It was a chance for the riders--boys and girls ages 9 through 17--to strut their stuff before troop leaders, parents and peers at a ceremony Sunday celebrating the post’s move to a new location.

The group had been riding at the Bellavista horse ranch in Sunland, whose owner was associated with the California Rangers for 41 years, said Lt. Col. Fred Frothinger, president of the board of directors. “The owner was getting up in age and we thought it was time to look for another place,” he said.

Founded in 1944, the California Rangers were charged with patrolling the state’s coastline during World War II, Frothinger said. The original group was made up of young men who were not old enough to join the U.S. Cavalry.

Although the threat of enemy attack has greatly diminished, the California Rangers still hold to the traditions of equitation, military science and camaraderie. Many youngsters become Rangers because they want to ride horses, but Frothinger said it is the sense of belonging to a group that keeps them coming back year after year.

Post I Cmdr. Maj. Karen Anderson, who has been with the Rangers for 18 years, agreed.

“The team spirit, love of horses and personal relationships have kept me here so long,” she said.

Ranger Caitlin Rocklen, 14, said she is learning not only equestrian skills and military protocol, but also lessons she will use later in life.

“I am learning how to deal with people and to take orders,” she said. “It’s like a family. We root each other on.”