FORT YATES, N.D. ? The newly founded Wakpala School Horse Club prepared for Mad Bear One-Loud Thunder Memorial Ride with a ceremonial sweat at Fort Yates..
On a beautiful Saturday morning, Oct .20, George Iron Shield gave words of wisdom and spiritual guidance for participants. Riders from Cheyenne River supported the Wakpala riders to follow several different staff bearers on the 20-mile ride to the Mad Bear One-Loud Thunder campsite on the banks of the Missouri River.
Robert Tiger, a direct descendent of Loud Thunder who was part of the Chief Mad Bear clan, carried the sacred staff into the Loud Thunder campsite. Robert was the oldest rider for this event. He happened to be riding Big John the oldest horse to complete the entire ride.
Tim Mentz, director of the Standing Rock Historical Preservation Office, and his intern assistant Mary Wilson greeted the riders. Three tipis and a mess tent were used for the overnight stay. After a campfire meal, historical talks and stories were shared. Finally exuberant but weary riders went to their tipis while their horses grazed awaiting the events of the following day.
A clear but chilly October sunrise greeted everyone. Riders ate, then dismantled the camp. Horses were saddled and prepared for the final circuitous trail back to Wakpala where an honoring meal was ready for all at the school.
Participants agreed all who took part experienced many valuable lessons. The Wakpala School Horse Club intends to make this an annual event which fulfills its purpose, which is to honor all descendants of this area.
Riders extended heartfelt thanks to the Wakpala Public School for support and encouragement, the Wakpala 21st CCLC Program for funding, the Historical Preservation Office for setting up of the campsite and historical expertise, the Wakpala Local District for the use of the camping gear, Teresa Shillingstad’s Bronzkota Ranch for horses and equipment, the Cheyenne Youth Riders for their support and participation, the cooperation of ranchers Duane Claymore and Milton Fischer who allowed access through their ranches, the foresight and organization of Manaja Unjinca Hill, the wisdom and prayers of George Iron Shield, the Wakpala Parent Group for the end-of-the-ride meal, Hau!
Last but definitely not least, a very spirited thanks to the horses, sunka wakan. Without their hearts and spirits this event would have never been a reality, hau.
Participants contributing to the success of this first Wakpala School Horse Club memorial horseback ride were: Kermit Miner Sr., Kermit Miner Jr., Kimberly Miner, C. J. Miner, T. C. Hinsley, Choppers Gabe, Jeremy Gabe, Wilford Looking Horse, Robert Tiger Sr., Robert Tiger Jr., Elizabeth Tiger, Brandi Tiger, Kolt Tiger, Chad Morsette, Ardyss Morsette, Manaja Unjinca Hill, Brandi Hill, Kellyn Hill, Ramey Hill, Jeannie Adams, T. C. Hill, Tyrus Cadotte, Ridge Cadotte, T. J. Jordan, Sebastian Rodriguez, Jubal Mellette Iron Shield, Keyana Iron Shield, Darrel Cable Jr., Randy Runnels, Chip Hunter and Jack and Teresa Shillingstad.
