Re: RC: sponsoring juniors need advice

[guest@endurance.net]

Chris Frame rosemark11@aol.com
     I usually ride with 3 Juniors and I can tell you it is always a
challenge to ride with that many and the challenges are different each
time. The luxury I have is that they are the same 3 juniors and over time
we have worked out most of the issues you will be faced with. God bless
you for taking this on.
     I sponsored one of those Juniors at the nationals (the one with the
broken leg) and offered to pick up a another junior whose sponsor's horse
had been pulled at the second vet check. The offer was declined by her
protective (rightfully so) mother and I will admit that upon later
reflection I was somewhat relieved that I didn't have that responsibility.
I believe the rider who picked up those other juniors at the nationals
deserves major credit. I would definitely make sure I had an understanding
with each and every parent about the challenges and dangers their child
will be facing. Even if only riding to complete, endurance riding is
different than trail riding. I hesitate to use the word liability and
discuss written agreements but it may be something you want to think
about.
     The most important thing to remember (next to SAFETY) is that you are
a team and it's one for all and all for one. While it is important to
compete, your biggest challenge will be to COMPLETE in the allotted amount
of time. Even if you know your horse won't drink for the first 10 miles
and you might be able to pass a few water holes, that isn't the case with
that many riders. You may have to stop and adjust tack or pick up dropped
tack and equipment and there may even be some physiological needs that
need tending to. Keep an eye on the clock because a new group that big
will want to lolligag some. Remember its easier on the horses and the
riders to go quicker in the morning than it is to try to make up for lost
time on the last leg.
     Some are going to get tired of trotting and want to walk. This may be
interpreted as whining but you don't want to discourage them letting you
know because if something really is hurting or they aren't in good
physical condition their equitation skills will be affected and that will
affect their horses ability to recover at the vet checks and complete.
This may not manifest itself over a relatively easy 25 mile ride on a cool
day, but as conditions become more difficult and distances increase this
becomes more important. I've found that until you know the rider the best
thing to do is slow down and go back and walk and talk with them for a few
minutes and evaluate their condition then pick back up again. That way
everyone is happy. It's a delicate dance and you will be the
choreagrapher.
     I could go on forever but I want to leave you with this: You, through
the gift you've been given as a sponsor, have as much, if not more,
ability to shape the future of Endurance than our elected officials. Teach
them well and make it a positive experience because in a few short years
these young men and women are going to be coming up behind you and asking
if they can pass and then they will be on their own. Please feel free to
contact me any time regarding any questions or concerns you have. I'm no
expert but I have been blessed to ride and camp with some of the best in
the world. I've learned a few things and have been able to apply them to
endurance riding with a big group and would be happy to share them with
you.
    Chris Frame.