Where are the women?

Every time I read about horseback riding across America, statistics say that at least 75% of all horseback riders are women. But I just don't see that in Kentucky.

When you go to a horse competition in Kentucky - whether a breed show or eventing, etc. - you will see that statistic in action. Lots of women, from teens to retired gals, up in the saddle practicing their craft. And a good number of men as well. So there in the show ring or on the cross country course, the statistic of 75% women probably holds true.

But when you stop to think that only about 50% of all riders are competing... the story is not yet done.

The rest of the riders (if we exclude horse racing and other unique uses of horses such as therapeutic riding, carriage rides, mounted police and the like) are on the trail.

Here in Kentucky, the male/female ratio flip flops when you hit the trail. From what I have seen, there are easily 75% men on the trail. And the rest of us few women.

Don't get me wrong, I know lots of women are out there crossing streams and climbing mountains on their trusty steeds. In fact, in Western Kentucky there is the Women on the Edge Trail Riders (womenontheedgetrailriders.org), a group of independent, spunky women who enjoy hitting the trail with female compatriots.
And I myself ride the trails with some special women who think nothing of loading their horse into a trailer, driving three hours into far Eastern Kentucky (or across the U.S.) to find the next beautiful route to the top of the mountain or the deepest holler.

But in general, when there is a group of trailriders in Kentucky, it is AT LEAST 50 percent men and usually more like 80% men.

I keep asking myself - Where are the women?

Is it because we have a unique Kentucky culture that implies it is less "feminine" to be on a horse?

Is it just a tradition that sons rode with their Dads, and that is being passed down through the generations? While Mom stayed home to watch the home fires?

Is it because women are more concerned about safety on the trail in Kentucky, and therefore are afraid to venture out?

Or maybe it is because we don't have enough trails so that a woman can ride within a reasonable distance of her home and so she rides less? (Whereas a man would look forward to a road trip, with or without his missus? As long as the beer is in the truck, he's happy. Oh, and yeah, don't forget the horse and saddle...)

Whatever it is, I'd sure like to know why it is.

Now if you'll excuse me, I have to polish my nails (NOT!).