The arrival of a small gray horse on the farm recently reminded me of an experience here a few years ago.

We received a phone call one evening from a woman who needed post-op care for her 30-year-old horse that had undergone colic surgery. She was referred to us by an acquaintance because she needed a barn that could provide several small meals daily, administer medications and generally keep a close eye on the horse while he recovered and until she could take him home to her neighbor's barn. Since our home is built in the barn, over the stalls, it was a service we could easily provide.

The woman, whom I'll call Georgie, arrived a couple days later pulling a small red horse trailer, then unloaded a small, scruffy grey gelding. Georgie, a tiny woman who appeared to be well into her 80s, had a bit of trouble walking and explained that she'd had more than one joint replacement and back surgery. It didn't dampen her big smile and cheerful personality.

ONE OF OUR SENIOR RIDERS WHO KEEPS RIDING

She explained that she'd bought "Patches" for trail riding several years ago; even though he was one of the most unattractive horses she'd ever seen, she gave him a try-out trail ride. During the ride, a limb of substantial size fell on them, and Patches didn't even flinch. She rode back to the barn and bought the horse.

Over the years, she'd grown very attached to Patches. When he colicked, some people thought it was crazy to proceed with surgery on such an aged horse, but Georgie didn't hesitate.

Patches recovered uneventfully and as soon as the veterinarian gave the okay, Georgie resumed her daily trail rides. She'd come to the barn, saddle up, use a stepping-stool to get on top of our picnic table, and from there would mount. She refused any help and would ride off into the woods.

Eventually, Georgie moved Patches home. Word has it that she continues to ride even though she's on a walker and now accepts help from the neighbor to get on her horse.

Her perseverance and zest for riding despite significant physical challenges, and the obvious joy she still gets from a simple walk through the woods on her horse, are an inspiration to all of us involved with horses, especially those of us wondering if we can keep riding as we age.

TWO OF OUR 60+ RIDERS OFF TO A TRAIL COMPETITION.