SALA - SIERRA AREA LANDSAILING ASSOCIATION
By Kent Hatch September 2000
FOURTH OF JULY BULL CRACKER
The Bull Cracker at Smith Creek Dry Lake attracted participants from San
Diego (Howard) and Las Vegas (Fred, Terry and Floyd). The wind was great as were the
potlucks.
An interesting tour over a portion of the Pony Express and Overland Stage Trails was led by Neil who finally located the access road (when others failed). The trails climb past the Smith Creek Ranch and up the Desatoya range connecting with Edwards Creek and following it to the Edwards Creek Valley to the north. Incredible to think how the pony riders made it through this forested country which was the heart of the local Indian tribes who were less than happy with the encroachment on their turf. Beautiful scenery and interesting ruins to visit.
If you haven’t visited the “Big Den” area of Nevada off Highway 722 between Eastgate and Smith Creek, it’s well worth your time. A relatively easy trail leads through a heavily wooded canyon to beautiful streams and waterfalls with magnificent views.
PONY EXPRESS DRY RUN
The Pony Express Dry Run was held over Labor Day weekend with a stalwart
band of land sailors finding great wind and a smooth surface at Smith Creek. Racing was
informal without a record keeper. With the strong wind and good surface, there may have
been some Manta records set on the six mile downwind leg from Elmer to Elsie. Some of the
speedometers showed low 60s. A typical potluck feast was held featuring turkey expertly
prepared by Chris, Larry and Jim on Chris’ washer drum/orchard heater turned BBQ
— a magnificent gas-fired, desert appliance complete with Chris’ digital and
analog controls.
Dr. Larry led a group to Elsie and Elmer demonstrating his
surgical prowess on Elsie’s spine to assure her survival through the winter and to
install a new head on Elmer gazing longingly at Elsie at the far end of the playa. Hal
provided croquet and bocci lessons to the kids and demo’d off-road
bocci to the ladies.
A fine wrap for the summer season with beautiful cool temperatures in the mid 70s.
Kent