There are two major things that can slow down or stop a Long Ride – injury and borders. Since I left Calgary I have dealt with the first problem more than once. Now, I am experiencing the second.

For the past month I have spent countless hours speaking to Mexican border officials trying to get my horses into the country. Every conversation ended with a new problem: “No you can’t ride across the bridge…” “No you can’t bring in three horses under your name….”

After finally having enough I hired a broker, who would help with the dialogue. I was told by several people this was the only way to get horses across.

I have now been sitting in Presidio for almost a week waiting for my broker to get the horses into Mexico. Everyday is a new excuse or problem. Yesterday I waited from 8am – 5pm for the vets to come inspect my horses and no one came. A few minutes after 5pm he called, said it was too late and that I would have to wait until tomorrow.

I am extremely frustrated as I have spent a lot of money and time on vet papers, a broker, etc. and I am still here waiting. I hate bureaucracy. But, at least my ponies are getting a huge break to rest up. They should be nice and fresh when we finally start trekking again. Hopefully it will be sooner than later…

I’m tired of waiting.

Update: Yesterday afternoon Filipe and his horses finally made it into Mexico. Here is an update from Filipe’s twitter account:

@filipemasetti: #journeyamerica in #Mexico! Third country… Feels good #tequila