GRANITE MOUNTAIN RIDERS' STORY

Early in 1981 Deniece Lepperd McAnulty, a Prescott area horsewoman, founded and organized a women's riding group with the goal of promoting equine interest.  Patterned after the Blue Mountain Riders, a similar organization in her hometown of Walla Walla, Washington, the group became known as the Granite Mountain Riders after Prescott's beautiful wilderness landmark Granite Mountain.  For many years, 15 to 25 Granite Mountain Riders enjoyed and were  involved in numerous horse-related fun activities such as trail rides, parades, horse shows and equine education.  Highlights included managing the popular Mile High Quarter Horse Mini-Circuit, providing  the "seed money"  for Horses With H.E.A.R.T., student scholarships and financially supporting a variety of community services.

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A DOWN HILL SWING

Over time membership began to dwindle and by early 2010 a scant eight members remained on the roster.  Despite GMR's history and roots in the community the nearly 30-year-old organization was on the verge of folding.  An honorary but inactive member for  several years, Deniece McAnulty returned to the scene and offered to lead the charge to get the "Ol Gal" back on her feet.  With the help of those few remaining members a campaign was launched with high hopes of saving GMR.

 

A "FACE LIFT" FOR GRANITE MOUNTAIN RIDERS

A full range of equine related activities including monthly trail rides, field trips, retreat rides and educational equine demonstrations rounded out a yearly published calendar.  This new and revitalized organization soon sparked the interest of horsewomen from all over the greater Prescott area and membership quickly grew to 50.  Horsewomen of all ages and all walks of life jumped at the chance to join this renewed and exciting organization. By the end of 2010 membership peaked at well over 100 and has consistently stayed at that level since.

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GRANITE MOUNTAIN RIDERS TODAY

New organizational concepts, budget controls, flow charts, chairperson positions, award programs, websites, computerized records, and publicity brochures have brought the "Ol Gal" into the current century and now meets the challenge of today's modern business and organizational management needs.  GMR is highly respected in the community and throughout the entire State of Arizona.  This is evidenced by the GMR parade group's invitation and participation in a recent Fiesta Bowl Parade.

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Area horsewomen are invited to ''SADDLE UP"and become a member of this active equestrian group.

Ownership of a horse is not required only the Love of Horses!  Meet and enjoy the company of other women bound by the same interest!  Learn through educational speakers and interesting equine demonstrations!  Participate in trail rides, field trips, parades and other equine-related activities! 
Assist the organization with Prescott community equine & other services!