Horseback Riding has been one of TImberlane finest and most popular activities over the years. This year’s head is Martin Lynch from Dallas, Texas, who has been at camp since the early seventies. We spoke with him about the program. Here are excerpts from that interview:

TIMBERLIFE: What do you mainly want to teach in your horseback riding class?

LYNCH: How to enjoy and get the most out of riding; we do this by teaching the kids English-style riding in the ring three or four times each week.

TIMBERLIFE: Explain the basics that each beginner must learn.

LYNCH: They must keep a collected rein, squeeze with their knees, and above all, have complete control of the horse. We also try and encourage self-confidence.

TIMBERLIFE: What are some of the other things you do in riding besides ring work?

LYNCH: We take out several breakfast, dinner and overnight trailrides each session. We also try to participate in gymkhanas with other camps, and have an “Anti-Cowboy Day” each year. We like to run clinics and how to saddle and bridle the horses, rodeo tricks, and how to be a good horseman. This last point is really important as one of our primary goals is to teach the students how to be “macho men” just like their instructors.

TIMBERLIFE: Do you ever get lost on a trail?

LYNCH: I first rode a horse when I was 4 or 5 years old, and I did it after I saw Clint Eastwood riding one with a cigar butt sticking out of his mouth. I knew I wanted to be as deadly, tough, and macho as he was.

TIMBERLIFE: What’s your favorite thing about working around the stables?

LYNCH: Walking behind all 14 of my horses when they’re tied up, and seeing them turn their heads around one by one and look at me. They're scared out of their hooves of me.