SANDBRIDGE — Horse enthusiasts and supporters of the Virginia Beach Police Mounted Patrol gathered at Little Island Park in Sandbridge on Saturday, Nov. 2, before setting off together for a ride on the beach, and photographer Bill Tiernan attended. The annual beach ride is a fundraising event that supports the work of the mounted police, and it attracts riders from throughout Virginia and beyond.
Nicole Bastian of Stafford treats her horse to a blueberry cookie at waters edge after the annual Beach Ride along the beach at Sandbridge on Saturday Nov. 2, 2024. [Bill Tiernan/The Princess Anne Independent News]Members of the Virginia Beach Police Mounted Patrol lead riders on the annual Beach Ride along the beach at Sandbridge on Saturday, Nov.2, 2024. The ride supports the Virginia Beach Police Mounted Patrol. [Bill Tiernan/The Princess Anne Independent News]Virginia Beach Master Police Officers Christopher Ashby and Lora Kreitzman were among the members of the mounted patrol who participated in the beach ride. The specialized unit has a range of duties throughout the city, including patroling the Oceanfront during busy times at the resort and participating in neighborhood events and parades. Taking care of business for the mounted patrol can also include cleaning up after the animals. [Bill Tiernan/The Princess Anne Independent News]Peyton Connolly, 12, of Chesapeake prepares her horse prior to the start of the beach ride. Peyton and her mom, Nicole, participated in the event. [Bill Tiernan/The Princess Anne Independent News]
