BRIDLE TRAILS
Whitford Sun 7 Apr
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A group of 19 people met at the end of Porterfield Rd for a tramp of over 10km around the Whitford Bridle
Trails and Estuaries loop track. After the usual in-circle intros and prayer we set out at 2:15pm to
do this in the anticlockwise direction. This began as a level gravel track following the coastline around
to the north facing edge looking out to Rangitoto Island, then turned inland to come out to Clifton Rd.
As we followed this road we saw such things as an equestrian centre with butterfly wing hurdles, fancy
front gates, and a couple of old cars in a front paddock. We carried on down to the second bridle track,
seeing a couple of horses and riders complete a ride on the track. This went along the eastern bank of
Turanga Creek, and we had our break, being about the half-way point on our journey.
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Kim presented devotions about horses, which we had seen several times on the walk. Just as horses
are known for their strength, endurance and unwavering spirit, may we find these as we navigate the challenges
that lie ahead. In a passage of Job we are reminded of the majestic power bestowed on the horse by the
Creator, who has also equipped each one of us with the inner strength and determination to overcome obstacles.
Just as a skilled rider trusts the guidance of their horse, let us place our trust in God's guidance
and direction knowing that He will lead us safely through every twist and turn of our journey. May we
encourage and uplift one another just as a herd of horses supports one another. Let us share words of
encouragement, lend a helping hand, and pray for one another's safety and wellbeing. Let us journey forth
with the strength, resilience, and unwavering faith of the horse, knowing God is with us every step of
the way. Our journey not just a physical adventure but also a spiritual journey of growth, reflection
and deepened faith.
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We carried on along the wide gravel track through mainly bush, to eventually leave the coast to come
out through farmland to Potts Rd. It was quite a long roadbash along this, Clifton Rd and Henson Rd,
enjoying the countryside scenery and a flowery front gate in one place, and a small robotic lawnmower
mowing a grass verge. Eventually we came to the start of the first of the bridle trails off Henson Rd
for our final stretch back to the cars at Porterfield Rd. Our 10.3km workout walk finished at 5:05pm.
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