Cowboys for a Cause

By Lisa Duncan

Solvang positively swooned this week as the storied Rancho Visitadores rode once more into town – the group comprising over 700 sun-kissed, spur-clad horsemen in what may be the most strapping stampede to grace the Santa Ynez Valley – a handsome homage to heritage, horsemanship, and heart.

Among those watching with delight was longtime valley resident Bo Derek, looking every inch the Western belle as she joined spectators. Founded in 1930, the ride benefits the Cancer Foundation of Santa Barbara and draws cowboys from across the country and abroad for a weekend of riding, revelry, and rugged philanthropy. Past members include Ronald Reagan, Walt Disney, Clark Gable and Bob Hope – proof the ride has long attracted a distinguished saddle set.

Crowds lined downtown Solvang as the riders clip-clopped through town en route to the historic Old Mission Santa Inés, where boots gleamed and spurs jingled.

“This ride is an incredibly important connection to our history, and beautifully honors our traditions,” said Hayley Firestone, trustee for Olive Crest and board president of the Santa Ynez Valley Foundation.

At the Mission, Bo Derek – radiant in pink honoring breast cancer survivors – watched the Blessing of the Ride led by Father Donal Burke of San Francisco.

“This is one of the most beautiful things about living in the Santa Ynez Valley,” Derek said. “I’ve been involved since Steve Benito was here honoring his late wife, who battled breast cancer.”

A world-renowned equestrian, Derek is among America’s most vocal advocates for horse welfare. She also supports veteran charities, recently furnishing homes for veterans transitioning out of homelessness through her home goods line, Perfect 10, a luxury lifestyle collection inspired by her equestrian life.

Nearly a century on, Rancho Visitadores still rides tall as one of the valley’s most handsome and heartfelt charity traditions.