I think endurance clinics are a great idea and should be
held often. Nevertheless, I think people need to understand that going to
a clinic is a little like reading a magazine article. It gives you and,
most importantly, your horse some idea of what it's all about. I
went to one with Sun before I started riding and it really helped to give us a
sense of the structure of it all. Best thing was I found out Sun was a
natural and he loved it.
I also volunteered on rides. That's another
excellent way to learn.
Still, there was a lot to learn! Even though
Sun was never pulled, we had some dicey moments: he had to have a shot of
banamine after our first completion. And the long trailer ride took a lot
out of him after another one. Seems hard to believe (some folks learn
faster than others) but after four rides,I was still confused about when and how
much water to give.
Now all my riding was before I found out about
Ridecamp. I just think you cannot possibly overestimate
the educational value of these discussions here on
Ridecamp.
I will do more clinics and fun rides, in fact I was
planning to go to Redwood until my older horse got sick, but Ridecamp is
consistently helpful.
