I find the discussion as to whether someone can (or should) race when
participating in their first Limited Distance ride or their first Endurance Race
interesting in the face of the very well-intended and (IMO) well-placed
recommendations being given regarding racing a horse.
However, as long as the AERC promotes RACING at ALL levels of
distance competitions, who cares?
Sure, the AERC provides information as to how better pursue this sport
in consideration of the horse, however, there is no REQUIREMENT (to my humble
knowledge) that anyone EVER do Long Slow Distance, there is no
REQUIREMENT that the rider ever learn anything about horses and the better
manner in which to use them, there is no REQUIREMENT to go SLOW.
DISCLAIMER: As those familiar with my posts
know, I do not believe in using a horse too early in its
career, or EVER too hard for its abilities and conditioning
levels.
That said, LET 'EM RACE....it's what
the AERC actually PROMOTES. The
organization doesn't stipulate as to whom may race, other than some vague
age requirement for the horse. That's about all the "eligibility
requirement" stated in the rules.
No experience necessary, just show up and go for it.
The "sport of endurance riding," as defined by the criteria and parameters
laid out by the AERC, is what it is.
