Saturday, April 28, 2007

Phone Photo Ops - Horseback Riding in the City

Claremont Riding Academy
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Riding along West 90th Street headed to Central Park, I was armed with a horse, a map, a few instructions and rules, and a last chance to enjoy one of the many cultural Manhattan pastimes that are falling victim to residential land development.
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Above is Nelly's head. Described as a "forward mare," she is a spunky Thoroughbred who took me on a spirited jog around The Reservoir.

The park was so overrun with pedestrians and dogs that I was only able to trot and canter over a few short lengths of the six-mile bridal path. Nor was I able to grab any quick camera phone photo ops of the gorgeous paths lined with flowering ornamental cherry trees since I was constantly on the lookout for stray children and offhand joggers. I wish I had known about the stable during the colder months when the park wasn't so crowded.

Under the canopy of trees on West 89th Street
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Upon exiting the park, I joined two other riders, who were also heading back to the stables.

Riders pose with their mounts prior to the press conference
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Reporters interview community members and riders
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The two above photos are hazy because I dropped my phone during the conference and cracked the camera lens; Verizon is sending me a new one - for a price, of course. The replacement fee is $50.

I wonder what sterile condo or analogous retail window
will assume this historic and cultural landmark.
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1 comment:

Dina said...

what a great experience!! good thing you did it just in time! looks amazing...the horses never get spooked by all the traffic or anything?! very cool