RIDE NIPOMO EQUESTRIAN TRAIL ALLIANCE
RIDE NIPOMO EQUESTRIAN TRAIL ALLIANCE
RIDE NIPOMO EQUESTRIAN TRAIL ALLIANCE
ESTABLISHED IN 2002
Ride Nipomo was created in 2002 by a dedicated group of volunteers, determined to protect and expand the horse trails in the local Nipomo area. The hard work has paid off and we helped sway local government and developers to recognize the equestrian community's needs.
Over the years, we have also helped protect and expand trail systems in other regions of San Luis Obispo County as well as having a voice in Santa Barbara and Monterey Counties.
We are still an all-volunteer non-profit group. We count on our dedicated Board Members and especially our wonderful club members.
Shelia
Patterson
President
I was an elementary school teacher for 33 years. As president of Ride Nipomo, I work with other non-profit clubs and government agencies to make sure our equestrian trails are protected.
I have always loved animals and was lucky enough to grow up surrounded by animals on a farm.
My favorite breed of horse is the Arabian, especially my boy, Zander!
Tom
Hopkins
Vice President
Professionally I worked for 30yrs for the State of California as a vocational/rehabilitation counselor and purchasing agent.
I am a Ride Nipomo volunteer and Board Member and currently serve as Vice President. I prefer Quarter horses but also like the gaited breeds. My current horse is JJ.
BOARD MEMBERS
Please meet your RN board members.
​
Some long time and some recent, but all great volunteers working hard to help save the trails.
​
Chris
Berichon
Treasurer
I worked in the financial industry for 40 years. As treasurer, I use the financial skills I learned in my career to keep the books for Ride Nipomo. This includes collecting the annual dues, keeping our tax status (501.3C) healthy, and paying expenses such as trail repair supplies.
I have always loved horses. I was 10 when I started riding. My favorite breed is Quarter Horse. My current horse is Sierra.
Janette
Wesch
Secretary
​
I am a registered dietitian and was Director of Child Nutrition at Orcutt Union School District. I am the Secretary of Ride Nipomo, and I also am the email coordinator.
My husband has had horses since we were married. I finally started riding around age 50 with my own little Quarter horse paint.
Robin
McDonald
Marketing Manager
My husband, Dave, and I own Avila Sign & Design. As a board member, I concentrate my efforts on the marketing/communication needs of the club.
My company designed the Ride Nipomo logo and has made countless signs. I also love to bring new members into RN. I have always loved horses. I started riding when I was 11. My favorite breed is the Arabian. I have a black Arabian named Mac.
Lenore
Spelbring
Liaison to Trilogy Homes
I am a retired RN. I worked mostly in Hospice care here in SLO County. I live in Trilogy and am a member of the Trilogy trails committee. I am the go-to person for any questions or problems between Trilogy and Ride Nipomo associates.
​
I have been in love with horses since I was a year and a half old. My mother hoped I would outgrow it, but here I am at 76 and still riding! Of the many breeds I have known and owned, Icelandics are my all-time favorite.
Hans
Hansson
Former President
I immigrated from Sweden in 1964. My career was spent working at several large car dealerships as a Service Manager.
​
I was President of Ride Nipomo for 9 years. I share my knowledge of Ride Nipomo history and use my relationships with local government agencies to keep our Association moving forward.
In 1964, I was introduced to horses. My wife bought an Arabian from Egypt and they became my favorite breed.
Gordie
Foy
Board Member
I spent my life in the grocery business. I recently retired when I sold JJ’s Market.
As a board member, I spend a lot of time on trail maintenance. I also have led group rides for our associates.
I began riding as an adult and my breed of choice is a quarter horse. My horse Mac is great on trails and working cows.
Jim
Harrison
Board Member
I worked for Santa Barbara County Fire Dept. for 37 years, retiring as Division Chief of Operations.
I have been a board member since the first meeting of Ride Nipomo, in the early 2000's.
I am very active in all our trail maintenance. I love helping work the BBQ for RN fundraisers. I understand and help with government protocol and regulations. I have had horses for 40 years. My wife and I love our Rocky Mountain geldings, Molokai and Maui.
Jean
Cole-Allen
Board Member
I am a retired Commercial Liability Insurance Adjuster. I also taught CPR for the American Heart Association. I write the Ride Nipomo newsletter.
I have loved animals all my life and began riding at age 12. My favorite breed is the Arabian and I love, love their spirit and personality. My current partner is Walon, with whom I have done many, many endurance rides.