Re: [RC] [AERCMembersForum] Re: 100 mile rides - Barbara McCrary
Frank, unless things have changed since we
last dual-sanctioned a ride, AERC did not have a steward...only FEI. I
think the various more stringent rules, along with someone to make sure they
aren't broken (stewards) was/is part of the reason some of the AERC membership
did/does not like the influence of FEI in this country. I know that
several years ago when I was on the board, there was a lot of balking about
becoming involved with FEI rules in AERC rides. Quite likely the
opposition has changed a great deal since then. I can understand why some
riders still don't like the FEI influence. I had hoped that the two
entities could be kept completely separate, but it appears that hasn't been the
case. Having stewards and stringent rules certainly levels the playing
field and attempts to keep things fair, but some riders would still prefer the
older, more relaxed way of conducting rides. In short, some riders aren't
so competitive that they fuss if someone appears to take advantage of the laxity
of rules. I would be interested in others' thoughts on this.
Okay, I've ridden Fort Howes when it was a dual sanctioned (AERC/FEI)
ride. It was still a hundred miles of sheer pleasure and delight.
The vet checks were a bit different, but, being an endurance rider, adaptation
ain't so hard.
What I'd really like to know is, does the AERC have a Steward at the
dual-sanctioned rides? If so, great. If not, WHY NOT?
An AERC Steward SHOULD be there to represent the AERC, cause the FEI is
CERTAINLY represented. The AERC Steward should avail themselves to AERC
members with concerns, questions, bitches or just the need to vent.
Perhaps that would help.
As for me, I liked the FEI folks I talked to and who
helped me (I rode as an AERC rider only). When I finished the 100 at two
in the morning, the FEI Steward (Robin) was waiting for me at the finish and
was very pleasant to me and my horse.
