Nipomo or "nepomah" is from the Chumash Indian word which
means "foothills". Founded in 1882, the open and friendly community nestled
in the foothills is home to sand dunes, farms and fruit orchards and large
eucalyptus trees which line scenic, windy roads traversing stretches of
fertile fields. Many homes are on an acre to
provide space to keep a horse or plant a garden. When house hunting, you
should have no trouble finding properties which include fenced areas for
horses, as well. And all of this is just a few minute's drive from the
beach.
.
If you see the red flag waving, it could be Sunday in
Nipomo and what you are seeing might be the Brushpoppers. The club meets
once a month to enjoy friendly competition and to promote skills and sportsmanship
in horseback riding and cattle roping. Youth and adults drive sometimes
over 100 miles to participate in events which enjoy healthy attendance
from sports enthusiasts, as well as family members and curious passers
by. The road is dusty but the day is fun for all who bring
their horses or just a chair to watch the horseback riding club.
And the people who attend are incredibly friendly, inviting perfect strangers
to sit and watch.
Warning: Don't stand too close to the fence when
the cattle competition heats up. It seems the steer avoid places
where people are standing. |
Photo © Debbie Stock
|
You can easily throw off a competitor's chance driving
one in, which will not make you popular with at least a person or two.
Info: 805-929-5737
NIPOMO REGIONAL PARK - Located 0.75 miles west of
U.S. 101 (W. Tefft St & Pomery Rd) is a 132-acre park with facilities
for tennis, handball, softball, baseball, football, and horseshoes. Picnic
tables and barbecues are located throughout the park,
and a natural area features a ring and trails for equestrians. A playground
on the south side provides a stopping place for travelers
with children.
|
