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Updated: 12:38 AM Oct 6, 2009
Highlights from the Knott County trail ride
It was a beautiful weekend in the mountains, perfect for spending the day outside.
Hundreds flocked to Knott County for their annual trail ride for horse riders and outdoor enthusiasts.
Posted: 12:35 AM Oct 6, 2009Reporter: Angela Beavin Email Address: angela.beavin@wymtnews.com |
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3 Comments 
It was a beautiful weekend in the mountains, perfect for spending the day outside.
Hundreds flocked to Knott County for their annual trail ride for horse riders and outdoor enthusiasts.
Everyone says the horse trail ride is a fun event.
"It's a great place for people to get together, great family time, wonderful for everyone to be able to get out and ride their horses and enjoy the nice weather." Said Pamela Robinson.
People from all over the country began showing up for the three day event a week in advance.
"We're probably one of the biggest cities in East Kentucky this weekend, here on top of a reclaimed mine site." Said Knott County Judge Executive Randy Thompson.
Thompson says this is a great way for people to see the sometimes untold advantages of mountain top removal.
The guys of Halfway to Hazard agree.
"We need to utilize this land as best we can, and some of these reclaimed mines are perfect places to have these trail rides like what's going on today." Said David Tolliver of the country duo.
"This is a great event that showcases that obviously; people coming together, volunteering, giving their time, utilizing the beautiful land that we have. it's a beautiful day, it's perfect!" Said the other half of Halfway to Hazard, Chad Warrix.
The duo played Saturday night, and they say it's a thrill to be performing in David's home county.
Officials are calling this year's event a great success.
Latest Comments
My Mom and I rented a camper and went to hear my little brother, David Tolliver, sing. I was amazaed at the beauty of the site, organization of the event, and total atmosphere. I was so proud of my home. I always wondered why we did not do in Eastern Ky. what was done in the Smokies. Thanks to the work and foresight of Mr Thompson, Debbie Moore, Kenny Champion, Phillip Champion and others, it is being done and even better. WONDERFUL!! I was filled with pride and show everyone here in Tennessee the website- www.knottcountyadventure.com Once again, I want to say thank you to the Judge and his staff for a wonderful weekend
This year’s Knott County Fall Trail Ride attracted over 10,000 people and 7,000 horses. The event is now one of the largest equestrian events in Kentucky! People spent on average $234.22 in the area creating an economic impact of between $2.3 million and $2.8 million dollars. Located in the heart of Elk Country, the Trail Ride started out as a 3 day event but this year, campers and trailers started pouring in the Sunday before and stayed all week. Riders came from 17 different states including Michigan, Connecticut and Texas. Many people come early to ride the trails. Others come to hear the elk bugle. “With over 11,000 elk roaming free in the eastern coalfields of Kentucky, it is an amazing experience and the landscape is breathtaking”, says one camper from South Carolina. The event is held on a large coal reclamation site owned by Western Pocahontas Land Co. and International Coal Group. With over 50,000 acres to camp and develop trails, there is always room for more.
What a great time we had on this trip. The weather was wonderful, the riding was so nice, we saw elk, heard coyotes and mett a lot of new friends. The group sponsoring this event was very friendly and helpful, checking to see if we needed water for our horses or had forgotten anything at home. The music was great both nights and the food was pleantiful. they announced Sat. night that 16 different states were represented this past weekend. It would have been nice to have seen some of our representatives and legislators around during the three days--it was great to see that the coal movement was supporting this event. Maybe someone could get in touch with the president, Ky. representatives and others who don't have a clue what a bonus this type of land is in Eastern Ky. Thank you to everyone who helped with this event. We are certaintly planning on coming back next year--and bringing some more of our friends.
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