My husband and I moved to Almaden Valley in 1975. We met Virl when he sold us my first horse Glory. I was a new rider and Virl took me on many rides in the Quick Silver Park to help me feel more comfortable on a horse. I was close friends with his girlfriend Silva Dobson, a beautiful German woman who took up endurance riding after meeting Virl and falling in love.

I pit crewed for Silvia on her first Tevis Cup. She was brave and smart and so much fun to be with. I miss her and I miss Virl.

My husband did many endurance rides during that time and Virl was always there. I don't remember Virl ever missing a ride. The best part of the ride were the nights when we'd have a camp fire and Virl would tell stories of his life as the Great American Horseman as well as others.

It was an honor to know him.