People now think the rules don't apply to them because they are so stinking special and important. If people would get it through their heads that proper and honorable behavior are worthy on their own merit, we wouldn't HAVE to have a plethora of rules every time we turn around. Since this is so prevalent in our society now, I don't know why we are surprised to see it invade this simple, previously well-hidden sport.... like a cancer! I shake my head so much these days I about get vertigo - why can people NOT simply just do what is right???
On Apr 6, 2009, at 1:53 PM, Barbara McCrary wrote:
I see your logic, Truman, but it doesn't fly. How do you think management of the Boston Marathon would take it if John Doe runner ran along with the Marathon on the same course on the same day. Or how about someone riding along with the Kentucky Derby? If it can't be nailed with a rule, then at least it is extremely tacky and unacceptable behavior. As a ride manager, I would DQ the friends with whom the DQ'd rider was riding and I would raise the roof with the person who went back onto the trail with a horse that was DQ'd for bad behavior. Imagine putting other riders at risk with this kind of behavior. Why does AERC have to make or change rules for every person who can figure out some way to circumvent the intentions of the sport? And people complain that rules have become too extensive and why don't we go back to the good old days when there were only 6 rules for an endurance ride. Answer: Because someone comes along who thwarts the rules and intentions and makes it complicated, that's why.
