History of the Mounties

The Mokelumne Mounties is comprised of girls and boys ranging in ages from 8 to 18.  The object of the Mounties is to provide its members with leadership skills and responsibility, while learning teamwork and respect. The team rides and trains their own horses to perform drills consisting of spectacular and daring maneuvers to dramatic music, wearing striking silver, black and red uniforms, and custom made chaps. Each drill is lead by two American flags who lead the team through a series of complex maneuvers with names such as the “suicide”, “double wedding rings”, and “company front”.

Throughout the year, the Mounties entertain audiences by performing drills at rodeos, participate in numerous parades and other community events, as well as competing in drill team competitions throughout California and the Western states. To perform at championship levels, the team practices twice weekly at the Clements Stampede grounds. The Clements Stampede Rodeo is the hometown performance the team looks forward to each year.  For the Mounties, 4:00 a.m. rising, long trailer rides, lots of patient waiting, hectic practices, hot dusty rodeos, and horses is just a way of life!    

The Mounties also raise their own money through fundraisers and donations and use the proceeds to purchase equipment, uniforms and pay expenses for out of town competitions. 

The Mounties was formed in 1981 as a 4-H project, and is now a non-profit organization, sponsored by the Clements Buckaroos. The Mounties have won no less than 10 championship titles over the years, including the Western States Equestrian Drill Team Association Championship and the California State Horseman’s Association Championship. Each title has been held several times. In 1992, the Mounties had the honor of being in the “Tournament of Roses Parade”, as well as being chosen to compete at “Equidance 2000" in Calgary, Canada.