This is Spike and I  at Cool August Nights, 2005.

Marlene and Spike

Until I moved to Ramona 11 years ago, I had never heard of a drill team on horseback.   It has been 10 years since I became a member, and I have never had so much fun! I appreciate what each member of the team brings to our group.

Our family lived on a small dairy farm until I was 6.    Due to the lack of horses on the farm, I begged to ride one of the cows. Even though I was only 3 years old, my dad obliged and sat me on the back of
one.   I instantly fell head first into the muck!

By the time I was 7 there was finally a horse on our ranch and I rode her daily, sometimes 3 times a day.   My mom still cringes at the thought of hearing Dolly's
huge size 3 hooves thundering through the lemon orchard at a full run, knowing full well that I was riding bareback.

Spike and I at the Valley Center Rodeo

After Dolly, I rode whatever roping horse my dad had at the time.   Some of them were really crazy, but at that age I'd ride just about anything. 

I've ridden lots of horses since then and now own Smartest Little Spike (Spike), an 8 year old gelding with cutting bloodlines. He is as solid as they come, and I would judge him to be the best all around horse I've ever had.   He has been performing drill for over a year now.   And what a personality, I love that little guy. 

I am an interior designer and own my own business, Studio 1 Interior Design in Ramona.  I have been married to my wonderful husband Tom for 22 years and we have 2 children, Heidi and Dane.    I love this life!

-Marlene Holmquist