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[RC] OLD HORSES - Sharon Hahn
I think distance riding is best done by a horse that enjoys it, of any age. Running a fit young horse that hates it is like making a teenage kid run marathons even if they hate it. Yes, they can do it, and maybe even better than older contestants, but if they hate it, what's the point? And if a 65 year old person wants to be active and continue running or hiking, we wouldn't say, "No, you have to sit in a rocking chair and be bored and get flabby and unfit" - we'd say "good for you!" I think it's great to keep older horses going as long as you monitor them to make sure you're not overdoing it (if you're having to kick and whip to get them to finish the trail, or the ears go back when you bring out the saddle or the trailer, or you can't keep weight on, or they're sore afterward, it's time to reduce difficulty or quit). It keeps them mentally and physically fit = living longer, healthier, and happier. UMECRA started an award this year for senior horses. It's for most points accumulated during the season by an equine 20 or older in any number of divisions with any number of riders. There are 11 nominees, and the oldest is 27. We'll see how it pans out. --
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