OK. I finally have time to write about the Chincoteague Pony Swim. First off, I would like to say a big thank you to Billy Beebe and his wife, Bonnie for having us at their ranch for the week. They are incredible people who are trying to keep the legend of Misty and Stormy alive, so future generations can truly see what inspired Margarite Henry to write her wonderful books. Tommie presented Nightmist's Legend to the crowds each day at Beebe ranch. He is a direct descendent of Misty. There is a lot more to the story, but that's for another day. In a nutshell, the ponies run wild on the island of Assateague. They got there back in the days of explorers from the wrecked ships or the first settlers. They roam around the national park just like any other wild animal. During Pony Penning week, the local Fire Dept crew, dubbed the Saltwater cowboys or as we called them "mud-riding cowboys" (They rode more in the mud than in the saltwater.) would pen two herds of ponies in a corral on the beach. Then, at low tide, they drive them to the lowest point to cross through the water and onto Chincoteague Island, then about a mile to the fairgrounds. As the tide drops, it leaves a big swath of mud and muck. Boat Capt. Jimmy took us to the Assateague Island side for a great view of the round up and the ponies getting in the water. You have to be up and in place by 8am and the swim started at 9:30am. Once the ponies reach the fairgrounds they are rested until the auction the next day.
At the auction, Tommie brought out Nightmist's Legend and had him do a few tricks and finish with standing on the pedestal. The place was packed with people as they got ready to bid on the foals. Most of the foals went for $1,000 to $2,000 with the proceeds going to the fire dept. It was a pretty cool event to see. Time to work our horses... Ride Fast... Take Chances! karen
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