Re: RC: Re: FEI/AERC Rules

[BMcCrary27@aol.com]

In a message dated 5/9/01 8:44:56 AM Pacific Daylight Time, lanconn@tds.net 
writes:


> If FEI and AERC need each other, why don't
> the two organizations get together and come up with ONE set of rules we
> can all live with? There are GOOD things in FEI rules that probably
> should be in AERC rules. Perhaps AERC could convince FEI to drop or
> modify some of the controversial stuff in their rules or waive them when
> they are not applicable to a particular ride here, stating specifically
> which FEI rules are waived in the entry form for that ride. Actually, I
> see no reason why a Ride Manager, under AERC rules, could not run the
> ride under FEI rules on their own, since FEI rules meet or exceed AERC
> rules. (Same thing as the RM requiring helmets)  


FEI has adopted many of AERC's rules over the years. Its rules were, at one 
time, much more restrictive than AERC's, so this is a good thing for us in 
the USA.  Europe is more rigidly structured in many ways than we are, due in 
great measure, to it's history (a long story, based on our observations 
during our trip to Switzerland, and our first contact with FEI rules, in 
1985).  The parts of the FEI rules that many AERC members are rebelling 
against, at least in theory, are the more rigidly structured ones.  And also, 
we in the USA pretty much originated endurance as it operates today (there 
were endurance marches and stuff in the European military, 19th century and 
perhaps earlier).  AERC members don't want to lose our individuality, and we 
don't want some of the politics that go along with the international control 
of endurance (FEI).  As much as I personally believe in helmets, I know that 
many members don't want helmets to become mandatory.  I don't agree with 
their choice, but I respect their right to decide for themselves.  Same with 
hooded stirrups or 1" heels on footwear, even though this is protection for 
the rider.  Most of us feel that our safety should be OUR decision, not the 
decision of some government agency or international organization. When we run 
our 75/100 mile ride on July 7th, there will be two separate governing 
bodies, while the riders compete on the same trail at the same time, and 
those riders will be identified as such.

Barbara