Now here's a question that should provoke some thought.  At what point does a newbie cross over?  This would seem to follow the thought line about the "forever green" horse -- started and is technically under saddle but not a seasoned campaigner and never will be due to lack of exposure or failure to process experiences, etc.  (I confess I will always "feel" like a newbie because the more I learn, the more I realize how much I have to learn.  Having been tested at every level--emotionally, mentally, and physically--Endurance is the ultimate challenge.)

 

So . . . at what point does the transition occur?  After the first 10 recorded rides?  After the first 50?  After the first 100?  After the heartbreak of losing your seasoned horse and starting over with another one?  After the first pull, regrouping, and trying again on another day?