Sept. 21-23 is the date of an exciting new event, the Tejon Fandango, taking place on the historic Tejon Ranch. This three-day “pioneer” (150 miles) ride is organized by Vern and Marge Biehl of the renowned Californios endurance rides.
It was a major coup to obtain permission and support from the Tejon Ranch to put on this event, due in large part to Aaron Dickinson, who now heads the equestrian operation at Tejon.
To gain some perspective on the historic nature of this event, one needs to look at the history of Tejon itself. It is the largest contiguous, privately owned ranch in the whole state of California. Comprised of four original Mexican Land Grants, it encompasses 270,000 acres of rolling grasslands and old-growth forests, 15-17,000 head of cattle, as well as plantations of olives, pistachios and almonds. The wildlife is diverse, including black bear, Rocky Mountain elk, wild turkey, mountain lion, pronghorn antelope and wild boar, all existing in natural balance within the varied habitat that Tejon has provided for hundreds of years.
Over 2,000 miles of road, paved and unpaved, takes riders on a journey back in time across the 425 square miles of pristine ranch land, where water from creeks and springs is plentiful, and shade from ancient oaks and old-growth cedars invites you to pause and rest.
During the Sept. 21-23 ride, the abundant water and shade will be crucial, and the rest stops will be timed. These aspects of the Tejon location are a major plus for an endurance ride, as are the wide, easy to follow trails with perfect footing. The course will follow cool canyons in the morning and climb to high ridges in the afternoon where horses and riders will benefit from fresh breezes at elevations of up to 6,000 feet.
On each day of the three day event, a carefully plotted and well-marked ride will take you across 50 to 55 miles of three of the original land grants. Base camp is located on the fourth land grant beside beautiful Castac Lake which, like many in this area, is a natural lake formed by the San Andreas Fault, and is fed by springs and mountain run-off. It is only one mile from the equestrian center and offers plenty of shade for horses and trailers.
The Tejon Fandango promises to be a popular new event in the American Endurance Ride Conference Calendar, with its easy access from the 5 Freeway, its pioneer status, endless open trails and spectacular views across the Tehachapi Mountain range, Antelope Valley and San Joaquin Valley, it is also expected to attract competitors from many regions, and entries should be mailed without delay.
The ride benefits the Transition Habitat Conservancy. For further information and entry forms visit the Californios website: www.californios.net.