More than 100 members of The Trinity Trust’s Rat Pack and River Rats were among the first to experience the magic of the not-yet-opened Texas Horse Park for an evening of horseback riding, cocktails, and Texas hospitality on March 10. Guests enjoyed exploring the trails and various venues, and many even saddled up a horse for a gallop in the arena.

“It is even more beautiful than we imagined it could be,“ said Gail Thomas, president and CEO of The Trinity Trust.

Texas Horse Park architect Craig Reynolds spoke about the design and vision for the park and how it will be a community asset. “It’s hard to believe this is 10 minutes from Downtown Dallas,” he said, marveling about the beauty of the Great Trinity Forest.

“I am blown away by my visit to the Texas Horse Park,” said Salle Stemmons.  “I can't wait to share it with all my family and friends. What a magnificent gift for all of Dallas to enjoy! Well done!”

Other guests, including Texas Horse Park Foundation Board Member Carol Nichols, Annie and Bud Melton, The Trinity Trust Board Member Lynn McBee, Natalie and Evan Beattie, Calvin Bluiett and Dustin Bullard, enjoyed taking pictures – and even a ride – with the beautiful horses provided by River Ranch Charities.  Sweet Pea and Pepper seemed to be the crowd favorites.

“This is so much fun. What a terrific venue for parties and events,” said The Trinity Trust Board Chair Mary McDermott Cook.

Located in the Great Trinity Forest near the Trinity River Audubon Center, the Texas Horse Park will host a public opening on March 28 from 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. It will be a great way to explore the site and get the kids on a horse. The city-owned facility houses two nonprofits, Equest Therapeutic Horsemanship and River Ranch Charities.

Thank you to Smith Group Asset Management and Texas Capital Bank for their sponsorship of the 2015 Rat Pack and River Rats. The Trinity Trust invites those interested to join today to participate in upcoming events cocktail events, grand openings, private paddling adventure on the Trinity River, Trails & Ales party in the Trinity River Corridor and more. Rat Pack members are invited to a special cocktail reception at Mary McDermott Cook’s “DumpTop” with views of the two Calatrava bridges.

Rat Pack membership is $500 for one-year for a couple or individual and guest. River Rats membership is a $100 for one-year for a couple or individual and guest. Those interested can join online at http://thetrinitytrust.org/ or by calling 214.740.1616 with a credit card number. Memberships can also be purchased as a unique gift for others.