July 22 2026Remembrance by Nina Bomar and Miki Dekel
Rest in Peace, Ann Kratochvil... She was a beloved friend to many and a dedicated endurance rider from Ridgecrest, California.
Ann was cherished for her beautifully crafted leather chaps, which came in a variety of colors and were adorned with as much fringe and bling as anyone could enjoy. She was also a talented tack maker, creating numerous bridles during a time when few others were sewing. I always appreciated her use of the super narrow beta, giving her gear a minimal, elegant look.
Miki Dekel, who lives in Canada, reached out to share the heartbreaking news. Miki had an Appy named Kool Hand Luke and was a friend of Ann Kratochvil. She said Ann passed away on July 9, 2026, at her home in Ridgecrest after battling cancer.
Miki praised Ann’s remarkable 34 years of riding with AERC, highlighting her many achievements. Among them was her extraordinary mare GF Brazil's Envy, who earned a perfect 10 (completing 10 years, 10,000 miles, 10 first-place finishes, and 10 best conditions). Ann rode Envy from 2006 to 2015, covering 10,200 miles.
Her total AERC mileage was 26,060, with her final ride in January 2025 at the Fire Mountain Ride in her hometown, where she rode her filly BBA Khaleelah. I believe Ann eventually entrusted Khaleelah to Callie Thornburgh, knowing that she was too much horse for her—their successes must have made Ann proud.
Miki also spoke of Pandora’s Pixy, another mare who earned a perfect 10, ridden by Ann’s partner and beloved companion, Randy Coleman. They shared many years and rides together, though Randy passed away several years ago at an XP Ride. I remember Ann expressing how lonely she felt without him. My hope is that they have reunited in the heavens, reminiscing about all the miles they shared.
Miki conveyed that Ann’s ashes were scattered in the hills above Ridgecrest. May she forever rest in peace, her spirit forever etched in the hearts of those who loved her.
More about Ann and Envy here! http://tracks.endurance.net/2015/10/the-newest-perfect-ten-equine-ann.html?m=1
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