Photos by Linda KorEnrique Pacheco (right), the son of Walter Pacheco one of the Clear Creek Cowboys who passed away last year, was the first rider to head out on the Territorial Road Pony Express. Presenting the mail were Walter Pacheco’s grandchildren, Sasha Medina and Juan Pacheco, all of whom were sworn in as mail carriers by Postmaster Arthur Gonzales in order to handle the mail.
Photos by Linda KorEnrique Pacheco (right), the son of Walter Pacheco one of the Clear Creek Cowboys who passed away last year, was the first rider to head out on the Territorial Road Pony Express. Presenting the mail were Walter Pacheco’s grandchildren, Sasha Medina and Juan Pacheco, all of whom were sworn in as mail carriers by Postmaster Arthur Gonzales in order to handle the mail.

Last weekend, the Clear Creek Cowboys completed their second annual Territorial Road Pony Express Ride, which started in Holbrook and concluded at the famous Standing on the Corner Park in Winslow. This event aimed to promote community spirit, honor and educate about American history while raising funds for a worthy cause and as the Clear Creek Cowboys Vice-President Pat Reynolds said, “Because it’s just so much fun!”

In the days leading up to the ride, the Clear Creek Cowboys visited Winslow schools Jefferson Elementary and Bonnie Brennan, where the riders showcased mail hand-offs, interacted with students and taught them about the history of the pony express rides. Additionally, they hosted a meet and greet session at the Winslow Chamber of Commerce, followed by a swearing-in ceremony for members and riders at the Winslow Post Office.

The roster of riders included Enrique Pacheco, Joe Perez, Tommy Allen, Brianna Allen, Mica Diaz, Pat Reynolds, Tammy Gray, Tim Kelley, Dara Plympton, Karin Ramos, David Ramos and Leo Parent. The event paid tribute to founding member Walter Pacheco, who passed away in September of last year.

After successfully completing the ride, the mail was delivered to Winslow Postmaster Arthur Gonzales at the iconic Standing on the Corner, located at 2nd Street and Kinsley Avenue. The group later convened for a well-deserved lunch and meet-and-greet with members of the public.

As a heartwarming surprise, the Clear Creek Cowboys presented Winslow Unified School District Superintendent Connie Gover with an unexpected $3,000 donation.

Gover said, “You know, I thought they would give a couple hundred dollars we could use in case a kid couldn’t afford to attend a field trip or something, but with $3,000 we will be able to do some real work.” The organization’s number one goal is to promote education which is why they were so proud to give such a significant donation.

The second annual Territorial Pony Express Ride was a resounding success, uniting the community and celebrating the country’s rich history, while also supporting local schools. The Clear Creek Cowboys’ ongoing efforts to preserve and promote education demonstrate their unwavering commitment to the people of Winslow.