With crew and volunteers crowding the forest road, Marcia Smith, DVM, of Loomis, Calif., (rider #12) appeared around the bend at the Robinson Flat vet check and crewing point.  First to arrive at Mile 36 of the 100-mile Tevis Ride, Smith and her mount, AM Sands of Time (Sandy) were making excellent time. The 12-year-old gray Arabian mare moved easily and Smith’s proficient crew began sponging cool water on her and offering alfalfa hay.

Although sweating, the mare’s appearance did not indicate the effort she must have expended earlier today climbing 2,250 feet to cross Emigrant Pass.  Smith stayed close to the mare during the one-hour mandatory rest period. Smith tore handfuls of mountain meadow grass to encourage a steady intake of nourishment. Smith won the Tevis in 1992, 1997, and 2002 riding different horses