Los Rancheros Visitadores made their 77th annual ride to Old Mission Santa Inès on Saturday to the cheers of more than 100 friends, family and spectators.
Approximately 800 cowboys formed a dusty procession of horses and wagons, as they rode through the valley to the mission in Solvang for the traditional blessing.
Men such Gene Autry, Ronald Reagan and Walt Disney made the same ride, always on the first weekend of May, as the Rancheros continue a tradition which has only grown in size over the years.
The all-male organization celebrates the vaquero tradition of California, offering its members the camaraderie and nostalgia of the cowboy tradition. Admitted to the club by invitation only, 36 new riders joined the procession this year.
As a cowboy band played music to entertain the crowd, the Rancheros rode onto the streets of Solvang before turning into the Mission grounds.
George Stillman of Lompoc began the ceremony with a cowboy rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Then the Rev. Michael Mahoney, the pastor of the Mission, gave his blessing to the gathered riders.
This morning, the riders depart from their makeshift camp and head east, traveling 20 miles to reach the group's traditional campground and rodeo area above Cachuma Lake for a week of contests, concerts and the inevitable practical jokes.
May 6, 2007
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