Pony Express re-ride to cross Churchill, Lyon counties

Pony Express riders were scheduled to arrive at Cold Springs Tuesday night and then Fort Churchill early Wednesday morning on their way toward Genoa.

The Pony Express is expected to arrive in Carson City at 12:30 p.m. Riders travel to Fuji Park and then across to Jacks Valley Road along the old trail.

They should arrive in Genoa around 2:30 p.m., though delays often can extend up to four hours either way.

“The Pony Express was a massive operation that began in 1860 to satisfy the demand for a fast mail service,” according to Park Ranger Daniel Wassmund. “Though it only lasted 18 months, it is still romanticized throughout the West today.”

Pony Express riders began their journey on Monday to relay the mail 1,966 miles from St. Joseph, Mo., to Sacramento.

The mail is carried in a leather satchel called a mochila, which will include a GPS tracking device allowing visitors to follow the pony’s progress.

For reports from the trail, visit the Pony Express’ web site at http://nationalponyexpress.org.