A MOTHERLODE OF REMEMBERANCES

by: Cathy Patterson

The Ponderosa, Bonanza and the Cartwright names have attained the status of legends. It was quite an honor to be invited by Royce Anderson into this fascinating tribute to history of the old west to conduct a mounted shooting championship competition. Over 250,000 people visit the Ponderosa Ranch during its' season between May and October. Guests are treated to guided tours, wander the colorful western streets, admire priceless collections of vintage autos, and visit the Cartwright family's Ponderosa Ranch House.

To think that over 500 million television viewers around the world still see BONANZA, that its popularity has spilled over into 86 foreign countries and has been translated into 12 different languages is astonishing. With vision and hard work, the Anderson family gives life to the legend that the Ponderosa is today. The United States Travel Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce recognizes the Ponderosa Ranch as one of the top western attractions in the United States.

Royce Anderson extended an invitation to lead trail rides the day prior to competition, graciously hosted a cocktail party, and treated the competitors to the Ponderosa Haywagon Breakfast. Together with the California Desperados, Royce directed this CMSA Double World Points Qualifier match during two days of fierce competition. The mounted shooters and their families are still raving about the spirit of BONANZA and that the living story of the Ponderosa Ranch IS believable!
Many thanks to Royce Anderson for providing such a spectacular venue for the CMSA Western Regional Championships.