HOLBROOK-The Hashknife Pony Express has completed its historic 67th Annual Pony Express Ride, continuing a proud Arizona tradition that keeps the spirit of the Old West alive.
The Navajo County Hashknife Posse trace its roots back to 1955, when it was established in Navajo County as a volunteer search-and-rescue organization. Formed by local horsemen committed to public service, rescue work, and community support, the group quickly became a respected fixture in the region. Just a few years later, in 1958, members of the Posse launched the Hashknife Pony Express Ride, a tradition that has endured for nearly seven decades.
The Posse’s early history is central to the modern Pony Express’s identity, grounding the annual ride in genuine Western heritage and long-standing community service.
The Hashknife tradition began in 1958, inspired by the historic Aztec Land & Cattle Company, whose “hash-knife” branding tool gave the organization its name. The modern route spans nearly 200 miles, from Holbrook to Scottsdale. Riders are sworn in as honorary U.S. mail carriers and committed to relaying first-class mail through Arizona’s landscape. Every envelope is stamped with the distinctive “Via Pony Express” cachet, a symbol of living history recognized by the U.S. Postal Service.
Today, the organization continues to thrive under the leadership of Captain Mark Reynolds, who upholds the group’s dedication to history, horsemanship, and community.
This year’s ride was dedicated to longtime rider Tim Prentice, a second-generation Hashknife rider. His son, Tim Prentice Jr., traveled from Alaska to join the 67th annual ride, honoring his father’s legacy as a third-generation member and completing the route in his name.
Hashknife extended heartfelt thanks to the Tonto Apache Police Department for escorting the group from Holbrook to Scottsdale, calling the officers “a great group of friends and part of the Hashknife family.”
Sponsors for the 2025 ride included the Tonto Apache Tribe, Mazatzal Casino, Town of Payson, Holbrook and Payson Elks Lodges, Honda Casino, Macy’s Tire and Lube, We-Ko-Pa Resort, and many others who support the riders each year.
Schools, sponsors, and communities also took part by sending letters carried on horseback, a hallmark of the annual ride that connects Holbrook, Payson, and Scottsdale through genuine U.S. Mail delivery.
As preparations begin for the 68th Annual Hashknife Pony Express Ride in 2026, the riders reaffirm their mission and motto: “Keeping the Spirit of the Old West Alive.”
“HASHKNIFE”
You can follow The Hashknife Pony Express on Route 66 Holbrook, AZ, on Facebook
