Endurance.Net Ridecamp Archives

I get really ticked off when someone makes totally false accusations.  Such an action 
does not serve rational debate well.  It only drives wedges between those who are 
trying to find mutually respectful solutions.  The following statement is such an 
accusation:

In doing so they [ride managers in the Western Region] are in violation of AERC Rules 
L5.3, L5.4, L7, L8, L8.3 and L9.3.

Were this statement accurate, even in part, it would have some validity.  But it's 
not.  It is totally false.  I assume the author is very annoyed that some RMs, many 
in the West and Southwest, do not award a Best Condition using the AERC system.  It 
is totally valid for the author to hold this opinion; it is NOT VALID to say that RMs 
who do not agree with him are VIOLATING rules when they are NOT.

Rule L5.3 is a definition.  One can't VIOLATE a definition.

Rule L5.4 specifies some completion criteria.  Since not one protest has been filed 
with the AERC accusing an RM of NOT using 60 bpm or less to determine completion or 
accusing any RM of using a finish line instead of the "pulse down", I would submit 
that neither of these events has occurred and making this charge without citing any 
proof is wrong.

Rule L7 does NOT say, "Placements must be given and they must be determined using the 
procedure described in L5.3 and L5.4."  The first word in Rule L7 is "If".  That word 
"If" gives RMs the option of giving or NOT giving placements.  An RM that choses to 
not give placements is not VIOLATING rule L7.

Rule L8 does not apply to RMs therefore they can't very well VIOLATE it.  Rule L8, in 
its entirety, applies to "The AERC".

Rule L9 states, "An award may be available for the horse judged to be in the Best 
Condition."  "May" means that no BC needs be given at all thus failing to give one is 
not a VIOLATION.  Rule L9 is modified by Rule L9.2 which states, "Use of the AERC 
Best Condition System is optional with ride management."  This allows an RM to use a 
different system and thus doing so COMPLIES with the rules.

Rule L9.3 specifies some aspects of the AERC system for judging BC and is applicable 
ONLY when that system is used.  An RM who uses a different system, ipso facto, cannot 
be VIOLATING Rule L9.3.

There has been lively and reasonable debate on the LD BC issue and many of us hold 
differing opinions on what serves all members of the LD community best.  However, 
false accusations and the disingenuous misreading of the rules to further one's 
personal opinion are reprehensible.  Disagree, yes; inflame with untruths, no.


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