Ridecamp: Re: [RC] the way we win/redefining endurance

In a message dated 9/26/2002 7:56:59 AM Pacific Daylight Time, 
walkergirl@xxxxxxxxxx writes:

<< One way to eliminate 'racing' would be to rank horses/riders
 on accumulated distance and the condition of their horses: NOT 
 for the speed in which they finish a race.  I can imagine a 
 system where the only scoring that takes place at a specific 
 ride would be a numeric represntation of your vet score (all 
 A's on your vet card would get you a score of 100, etc) so 
 EVERYONE who brings their horse through fit to continue gets 
 the same recognition, not just one BC winner.  Then each year, 
 riders who achieve specific levels of accumulated distance at 
 sanctioned rides would be recognized (500,1000, 3000 miles, 
 etc, say). I suppose there could be rankings for horses, riders 
 and horse/rider combos, all based on accumulated distance.  In 
 this system what gets rewarded is keeping your horse fit, and 
 going the distance: period.  Faster riding gets you nothing.   >>


This sounds like a fun, challenging, and rewarding sport - but it is not the 
sport we know today as "Endurance."  As a newbie, I personally do not race, 
but then I had a wonderful mentor and counselor in Tammy Robinson of 
Trail-Rite.  My goal this first year is to finish every ride I start with a 
healthy, happy and sound horse.  BUT, I do recognize that speed is part of 
the equation as the sport is - and has traditionally - been structured.  To 
finish is to win.  But to finish in the "top-ten" is to be in the true thick 
of the competition.  For now - and until my horse lets me know otherwise, 
I'll take the personal accomplishment of finishing.  Top Ten?  Perhaps 
someday.  When and if my Solitaire's personal best puts her there!  There 
will always be those who abuse their horses.  Restructuring the sport to 
these lower common denominators is, IMHO, not the answer.  One cannot 
legislate intelligence!
Scott

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