Ridecamp: [RC] LD again

>>How many others on the BOD agree with this?  Is it time to really look at
the purposes of LD and ensure that that's how LDs are managed and that's
how LDs are ridden?
Lif Strand
Quemado NM  USA
>>

Here's my opinion on LD as a BOD member - (but, however) it's not a simple
issue.

I very much agree with Tamara's recent post:
>>From Tamara: "Tamara Woodcock plasmatica@xxxxxxxxxxx
Back to the same LD arguement again.
There is a whole section of rules pertaining to LD only.  And there is a
section/rule which states that there is a minimum completion time.  This
means the stopwatch matters and that Limited Distance, same as for
Endurance, is therefore a race.  The only thing differing the two is the
"finish line", which is actually a finish line for endurance, and is meeting
the pulse criteria of 60 for Limited Distance. Many times the rules use the
words "competitor" and "compete" in reference to both Endurance and Limited
Distance.  No where is mentioned "this isn't a *real* competition, so don't
try to win"  And there are guidelines in place for handling rides that do
give placements.">>

(Steph speaking now:) But: I don't think that the current LD format is the
best training tool - if AERC's intention was to provide education and
training of new riders, then they should not have defined LD as a timed
event - i.e. race. If a proposal came before the BOD to redefine LD, I would
have to consider it very carefully.

However: As it currently stands, LD is by definition a race, just as 50's
and 100's are by definition races. Therefore, I would prefer to see AERC
focus on methods of training new, LD riders , such as seminars, one-on-one
discussion, articles in EN, etc., to EDUCATE new riders. Most mistakes at
the LD level happen because riders really don't know any better. There may
be some career foolish LD yahoos, but not very many in my experience
(actually none in my experience). There are also many career top finishers,
who condition their horses and ride good smart rides. For those who are, and
always will be, inclined to race, the current LD format is a reasonable
starting point - they learn how to pace for a top finish, they learn the
importance of training, electrolyting, paying attention to their horses -
but since it's only half the distance, the risks of getting the horse into
serious trouble are less.

I don't like the mixed message that AERC currently sends - "LD is a race by
definition, but we really think you shouldn't race". There have been hard
feelings on both sides (LD and non-LD) since I've been in the sport. We
(AERC) need to either change the format, or support the one we have.

Steph


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