Re: RC: Great American Horse Race 2001

[BMcCrary27@aol.com]

In a message dated 12/06/2000 6:55:57 AM Pacific Standard Time, 
guest@endurance.net writes:

<>

Point #1, the correct name of the ride is 2001 XP (or Pony Express).  The 
Great American Horse Race took place in 1976.  Point #2, it is a real ride 
and is AERC sanctioned as eight 5-day rides.  This allows riders to ride only 
some sections and still receive Pioneer Rides credit.  Some riders will 
attempt to ride all 40 days, and a few on the same horse.  There will be 5 
days of riding and 2 days of rest per week.  Point #3, how many horses you 
take is up to you, based on the inherent soundness and condition of the 
horses.  The condition will build up as you go, but the soundness may be the 
deciding factor.  Example, if the horse in question is a bit prone to going 
off, he may not be a good choice.  Then, too, you have to contemplate whether 
laying any given horse off for more than 1 day will make him susceptable to 
tying up when he goes back into work.  I should think alternating two horses 
all the way through the entire 2100 miles might work, but this is just my own 
opinion.  It will take very careful management of the horses. Point #4, AERC 
rules don't mention this anywhere, but I think ponying an extra horse would 
not be an approved policy.  This ride is rather unique in its structure.  
There aren't any prototypes to refer to.  In 1979, there was a running of the 
same trail, but it was not an AERC ride, and each rider could use up to four 
horses, changing horses during the day.  With the 2001, you have to ride the 
same horse for the entire day (50 miles).  Point #5, I seriously doubt there 
is any provision for someone to move riders' rigs.  That's up to you to find 
someone to do so.

The ride manager is Dave Nicholson and you should contact his wife Ann at 484 
S. 100 E., Kanab, UT 84741, phone 435-644-2400 for updated information.

Barbara McCrary
West region director