Ridecamp: [RC] Pre-Ride VC Issues and a few others

Roger,

I definitely agree with your comments on AERC Rule 13 as it DOES NOT
relate to blood test/analysis at AERC rides.  I definitely do not think
it is a rules violation for a rider to see the results of a blood
test/analysis during the ride. In fact, I think it actually satisfies and
falls under AERC Bylaw VI, Sections 1, 2, & 3...all dealing with the
collection of scientific data, rider education, prevention of cruelty to
animals, etc.  I don't believe knowledge and the subsequent use of that
knowledge is unfair nor is it a violation of our rules.

As to some of your other thoughts, I will comment after those I don't
particularly agree with - Randy Eiland


From: Roger Rittenhouse <roger@xxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: Re[2]: [RC]   Pre-Ride VC Issues and a few others
 
 
 
RR- If this hazing at a trot out was not important to present the horse -
all horses in the same condition,   then why did FEI
adopt the no hazing chasing rule?

RE- FEI also tried to adopt a policy that the "race ends" after the first
20% of the entered equines completed, FEI also approved the UAE/|FEI
Masters Series (also known by the acronym, SCAM)...need I go on?
 
RR - In the long run we really do not need more rules only compliance
with
the ones we have.

RE- I agree, but I can tell you that, as Rules Committee Chair, even that
committee is having a hard time agreeing unanimously on what our rules
say or mean.  Many AERC Rules are ambiguous, interpreted differently
depending upon the circumstances or who is interpreting them. 
 
RR- What I see more of is the misuse and abuse of authority from the
vets. We have to comply to the letter and the intent of the rules, but
the vets are given all the leeway they desire and have the final
say in all cases.
If the issue was for the protection of the horse - I have no problem,
but redefining the criteria  beyond that scope of the rules is
inappropriate.

RE- I kind of agree with you but maybe not with as much conviction?
 
RR- I have tried to find the rule that says a vet may pull a horse for
any
reason they so desire, cant find that. There are comments in the Vet
procedure manual that may be construed to indicate they have that
authority. But I cannot find a clear statement.

RE- That rule does not exist, but Rule 2.1.5 states the Vet's decision
regarding disqualification are final...but that must be related to Rule
2.1.4 that states that the equine is examined for metabolic and
mechanical parameters....so the DQ by a Vet can only be related to those
parameters and violation of Rule 3.3 that refers to an equine that
constitutes a clear danger to other equines or humans....The real answer
to your premise that some Vets are overstepping the boundaries of a
smooth ride lies with competent, educated Ride Managers.  When it is all
said and done, an AERC endurance ride is like a small franchise business
with AERC being the Franchisor...and the Ride Manager is the Franchisee. 
The Vet is not a partner in the business, but is a paid employee of the
Ride Manager.  That does no imply that the RM can in any way over rule a
valid veterinary observation and decision...but it does imply that the RM
and Vets must have an understanding of what is expected, how it will be
handled, and they must be able to work together in a smooth and
cooperative relationship.  If that is accomplished, then the ride will
operate successfully - following AERC Rules and common sense...that does
not mean everyone will always be satisfied, but it should mean there will
be no valid complaints related to management and veterinary issues.

 
RR- Who gave them all power to do what ever they please.? The personal
beliefs of many vets are implied and become part of how they vet.
Example would be those vets who do not like racing applying their
personal philosophical   attitude and censuring a rider with a lecture or
a pull.

RE - See my preceding statement above.
 

 
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