Ridecamp: Re: [RC] or 3rd class Old Dominion Citizens LONG

--- Nancy Mitts <mitts_n@xxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:
> Actually, I thought I read that OD ride award was
> based on Dr. Matthew 
> Mackay Smith's new vision of what endurance should
> be, for everybody?
> "The Way We Win" concept?

He spent about 20 to 30 minutes talking about the "Way
we win" concept and then gave out candy to represent
the different levels for the 50 and 100 mile rides. 
This was in addition to the normal placings,
completion awards and other awards that the OD gives
out.  It appeared to be an intial roll out of his
ideas, not a replacement for the normal OD awards &
placings.

> It seems LD has evolved in very different directions
> in the various parts of 
> the country. Much more so than the longer distances,
> although there are 
> regional "flavors" there also.

You're right!  I've only ridden in the NE and SE, but
there is a world of difference in how LD is viewed and
run between the two areas.  

> Are ALL the permanent LD riders feeling so put upon,
> or only a very vocal 
> bunch? (I say permanent, because the riders in areas
> who often ride both 
> distances don't seem to be so upset.) Or is it just
> certain regions of the 
> country that have a problem?

As I am not a LD rider normally (but may be doing some
as I recover from serious knee surgery and heart
problems) - I would want to be treated as someone with
a clue about what is happening.  I can say that the NE
seems to treat the LD ride as something for new riders
rather than new horses/old riders or horses/riders
recovering from illnes & injury, etc.  That's not to
say that the newbies don't often start at that level
also, but they aren't the only ones out there.

The rules book states:

1.4.1    Limited Distance competitors must be offered
a separate and specific briefing on the special
features and requirements of Limited Distance Rides.

Consider doing this after the normal basics that would
be covered at a ride briefing...  The trail markings,
introduce the staff & vets, describe the vet checks
and hold times, and announce the pulse parameters for
all distances offered.  THEN offer the "separate and
specific briefing on the special features and
requirements of Limited Distance Rides" for those who
are newbies that need that information or who want a
referesher.

Don't slight the LD riders at the awards banquet. 
They may not have accomplished an endurance
completion, but they may very well have accomplished
their goal of learning a new sport, bringing along a
young horse, or returning from injuries or illness. 
Let them receive any recognition due from the the
folks who were there.  Don't spend oodles of time
awarding & recognizing other ride distances, then rush
thru the 25 milers at the end in order to "save time".
 OUCH!  3rd class citizen time - big time!

I have no problem with LD rules as they stand.  I just
wish that all the regions offered the same type of
ride.  If I were to go to a 50 anywhere in the
country, I have a basic idea of what to expect.  The
concept of a LD ride is so different between the SE &
NE, I would almost not recognize the two.  From
hearing other districts talk, sounds like their
attitudes toward LD differs as well.

As an organization, we need to decide what LD is,
treat it the same in all locations as to rules, BC,
etc.  We need to treat the riders as adults &
recognize that not all riders in LD are newbies that
need to be protected from themselves & from damaging
their horses.

Linda


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