In the midwest, we treat our horses in comp the
same as in end. We have pens, do not have to tie to the trailer, have
basically the same rest period, are stopped as many times as end.
Differences, comp is a timed event, UMECRA allows no water to be splashed on at
the vet check, forward motion is only when one is on the horse. The
exception to that last rule is if one considers something a danger to both rider
and horse. Then one is allowed to lead the horse thru the danger
area. One just learns to play the game. No water on the horse at the
end or at vet checks, then time oneself so one can meander in and get that low
pulse. Take a hat or lid and fan the horse to get the pulse to drop (it
works!), take the saddle off, etc. One can go as fast as one wants too, but if
losing points for being early is not an option, then spend more time at the vet
check, do more walking, or sit in a grassy field for awhile until it is time to
come in. Teach the horse creeper gear. We have to keep in forward
motion the last 2 miles in when riding under UMECRA rules. So the grassy
field is before the 2 mile marker. And the rider is supposed to be the
only one taking care of the horse, no crews. That is why comp is a good
place to start. A beginner is going to learn when he/she is responsible
for all the care. If one doesn't have a crew in endurance, then one is
going to learn too. It sinks in a little faster when the rider carries all
the responsibility. One can start anywhere, endurance or competitive, one
can go any speed in either of these disciplines, there are no set
requirements telling one how to ride the ride. Therein is the learning
experience. One can hurt the horse just as easily in competitive as
endurance, so one just needs to do the homework no matter what is ridden.
Jeanie
