Brushpoppers of Nipomo, California

 

Nipomo, California--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. 
 

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.