The past few weeks, we’ve been concentrating on our old warriors, and we will get back to them. However, this week we wanted to start a new segment called – BADA$$ MARES.

Please note, many of the stories currently being told come from our longtime volunteers from years ago, who had a particular horse—or horses—they first fell in love with.

Anyone remember the movie Thelma and Louise? It was about two friends who went on a road trip and found themselves in a strange situation. Well, let us tell you about our version of Thelma and Louise.

Her name was Janis, a.k.a. Thelma, and her sidekick was none other than her foal, Ariana, a.k.a. Louise. Janis was a big, solid girl—just a little too loud, a little too pushy, maybe even a little too bossy.

In case you’re not aware, sometimes after a mare gives birth, she becomes a hot commodity for other stallions. Lead stallions and their lieutenants have their hands full trying to maintain their bands during this time. This is exactly what happened in Janis’ band not long after Ariana was born.

Once the dust had settled from all the flailing hooves, it was discovered that Janis and Ariana had been snatched by Inspector. If only poor Inspector had known then that all the energy, he expended fighting for Janis and Ariana would be for naught.

Our big, beautiful girl made a decision the day Inspector captured them—one that not many mares would make. She and her youngster made a run for it. And run they did. Thelma and Louise were born.

Over the next several weeks, our volunteers scoured the river to locate Thelma and Louise. There would be a sighting at Coon Bluff, and then the following day they’d be observed at Mud Cliffs.

One day, a stallion was seen in the distance attempting to snake Thelma and Louise. Witnesses noted that Thelma spurned his advances and kicked out at him—the girls were on the run again.

A few days later, our volunteers came across a serene family scene near Sheep’s Crossing. Thelma and Louise had stopped being on the lam and were with one of our favorite bachelor stallions—who also happens to enjoy coming and going at his leisure—Spot.

Over the years, our girl Janis has finally given up her Thelma and Louise days.

Once again, this is – As the River Flows.

Photo by Pam B