Wild Horse Advocate Completes Nevada Discovery Ride

The Nevada Discovery Ride, a pioneering equestrian event, was organized by Samantha Szesciorka, a member of the Wild Horse Preservation League. This ride aimed to raise awareness about the challenges faced by wild horses.

On May 25, Szesciorka embarked on her journey from Baker, Nevada, near the Utah border, and concluded in Reno on June 22, covering 450 miles. Her arrival was celebrated by over 40 people, including several media crews.

Szesciorka moved to Reno in 2008 and was inspired by the wild mustangs she encountered. Saddened by the plight of many horses in holding facilities, she began planning the Nevada Discovery Ride in 2010 to demonstrate the versatility of mustangs as trail horses and to promote their adoption.

Szesciorka's horse, Sage, a six-year-old mustang she adopted from the Carson City Correctional Center's auction in February 2011, proved to be an ideal companion. She remarked, "I couldn't have found a better companion and trail horse if I had tried. He watches out for himself, consequently watching out for me at the same time. You can't teach that in a horse."

Throughout the ride, Szesciorka used a Hackamore on Sage, sometimes only a halter and lead rope. Her dog, Bella, also accompanied her, having adventured across various terrains and states.

Al Lilla, another WHPL member, assisted as a road crew member for part of the journey. Trevor and Ted Oxburrow from the American Discovery Trail helped by marking sections of the trail. Ryan Powell, the head road crew member, managed water drops and supplies along the route. He also proposed to Szesciorka via her website, to which she responded with a "Yes," gaining over 1,200 hits on her Facebook page.

Szesciorka's diverse life experiences include living in places like Pennsylvania, Hawaii, South Korea, and Germany, and serving in Afghanistan and Iraq.

For more details on her adventure, visit www.NevadaDiscoveryRide.com.

Originally posted by Reno Gazette Journal.