How do we get that information to the people who
are just starting out?
I know to take it slow because I've been reading,
crewing, and following this list. But what about someone who is new, has a
horse they want to ride and has signed up already?
Perhaps this is oversimplifying but many of these
problems (like in the protests) would be alleviated by one simple
concept. SLOW DOWN until you know what you are doing. I am always
amazed to hear someone bragging that at their (or their horses) first
endurance ride they "top tenned".
Next question--while I don't sympathize much with the
lady in question, she does make a valid point. How do we educate
people like her BEFORE the damage is done? Perhaps we should be
dwelling on that one a little more and on our horror over what can no longer
be helped just a little less. Just my nickel's worth....
Heidi
I would like to put my two cents in concerning
"education" of new riders. I think in the past 10 years the
amount of information available to those just getting starting in this sport
is incredible. The resources available from AERC, internet groups like
Ridecamp, regional endurance clubs, I
think the "education" is there for those that WANT to learn. How do
you spoon feed riders (old & new) that will not invest some of
their time in learning "how to"? Some people are not willing to take
advantage of the educational opportunities presented and then use ignorance
as their excuse when something goes wrong. I think it takes a
lot of nerve to use this as a defense when a tragedy like this occurs and I
have no sympathy for them.
