This summer's Race of Champions was the best organized ROC that has ever
been. If you do not mind wind (the dust at base camp was occasionally
unbearable), the weather race day was as close to perfect as you can ask for.
Very warm morning but just as it started to get too hot the clouds moved
over. It rained above but only a few drops made it to the ground.
The finish was exciting with Val Kanavy on Cash just seconds ahead of Shirley
Delsart. I had to leave before BC was announced. Val did not show for BC
though Cash looked fine. Some sort of agreement or something. Shirley's
horse looked fine but they all showed just how tough the trail was.
The trail was difficult but honest. The problem was not so much the climbs,
but moreso the footing (rocks). The views were breathtaking (not just due to
the elevation, either). Could not be a much more spectacular event location
anywhere else on earth.
Gallons of IV fluids were brought due to the heat, but only one horse needed
any to the best of my knowledge (and he was due to problems 3 hours after the
ride). The riders collectively rode the most intellegent ride I have ever
witnessed.
Please pardon if this rambles. I slept probably a grand total of 9 hours the
entire time I was there so much more later but first I shall lay me down to
sleep...
Mike
C. Mike Tomlinson, DVM
Tomlinson Consortium
501-D West Redlands Blvd.
Redlands, CA 92373-4642
(909)307-2369
Fax(909)307-2366
CMikeT@AOL.com
Mike@Tomlinson.com