From a young age, I have been captivated by the beauty and grace of horses. My journey began at the age of 2 when my dad gifted me my first pony, sparking a lifelong passion that I carry with me to this day. At 8 years old I joined 4H and continued to thrive in the program, eventually becoming a Junior Leader and mentoring others who shared my love for equestrian activities.

In 1981, I had the honor of being crowned the Rocky Mountain Paint Horse Queen, representing Colorado at numerous horse events that allowed me to connect with fellow enthusiasts. Each event became a collage of memories, from riding in parades to participating in competitions and engaging with young people. As an adult, I expanded my competitive horizons by participating in AQHA and APHA breed shows, and I’ve also competed in Obstacle Challenges.

Yet, nothing can compare to the exhilarating thrill of riding through the majestic Rocky Mountains, where my true passion lies. I treasure each moment spent horse camping, immersed in the breathtaking beauty that Colorado provides.

In 2025, I am proud to serve as the President of the Front Range Back Country Horsemen. I recognize the importance of maintaining our trails, promoting cohesiveness among all trail users, preserving our wilderness areas, and educating safety for all.

Horses have taught me resilience, responsibility, and the beauty of companionship. Whether I’m competing or simply enjoying the great outdoors with my horses, I am grateful for the incredible journey that this equestrian life has provided. Today, my four-legged herd includes three Quarter Horses, one Paint, two Border Collies, and several kitties. I deeply cherish my life with my husband, Randy, in Bennett, Colorado.

Having spent the first third of my life in the flatlands of Illinois, I arrived in Colorado 35 years ago, a refuge from the plains. My first pony was a Christmas surprise when I was 10 years old, every little girl’s dream! After that my grandparents kept horses for the kids and then I had horses until age 30 when life happened.  My work and family life dominated until 7 years ago when I finally got my Sugarfoot! After working in every aspect of nursing from hospital bedside to specialties including ICU, dialysis, management and education, I was able to retire and enjoy my passion for horses.  I joined Front Range Back Country Horsemen because it provides me with the opportunity to volunteer and contribute to the beautiful Colorado wilderness while enjoying the company of horses and friends.

I'm a Colorado native and have been in love with horses since I was 12 years old.  I grew up in Colorado Springs and rode my horse daily in the Garden of the Gods after school.  I worked in the telecommunications industry for 25 years.  My husband and I owned a business for 20 years.  Now I’m retired and my life’s joy is riding my horse Dusty on the beautiful trails of Colorado as much as possible! The reason I joined FRBCH, is because I am passionate about keeping our public lands accessible to horses. 

I was born with the love of horses.  My parents thought it was a phase, but here I am, still obsessed!   I grew up in Central Florida without a horse but rode whenever I had an opportunity.   I lived in Northern Virginia for a while and bought my first horse there.   I later returned to Florida, where I was involved in trail clubs that kept trails clean and even created new trails upon request from the state parks.  I am a professional accountant that has worked in various industries for over 30 years.    I ride and play with my horse, Perfecto, as much as I can.    BCHA had recently come to Florida and then I moved to Colorado.  I was interested in knowing more about the organization, so I joined FRBCH.   We have access to such wonderful trails, and I want to keep it that way.

I moved to Colorado in 2019. Getting out on horseback into the beauty that this state has to offer on its many trail systems has been a great joy in my life. Trail riding is how I spend most of my time. Coming alongside FRBCH in support of the important work that they do seemed like an ideal way to pay my gratitude forward. I also love to garden so you will frequently find me playing in the dirt when weather allows.

I have two Missouri Fox Trotters, two dogs, chickens and two amazing young adult children as well as an amazing son-in-law, all live here in Colorado. I have worked at the Nursing Department at the University of Colorado in Colorado Springs for the past six years. I look forward to the adventures ahead with FRBCH and contributing in whatever way I can to its continued success in its very important mission.

One of our newest Board Members