I have been absent from my computer all summer and will continue to be
until school resumes in late September. I have one observation to make,
however. This years heat and humidity seem to be taking a toll on the
rides in my area (Ohio). Rides that usually have 80 riders have 20 to 30
show up... the two day rides especially. It seems the only people out
there are the ones with mile awards in close reach, such as myself. Of
course, I have only done two rides this year, with one or two more in mind.
Last weekend was a 2 day 25/50 CTR and only 14 people stayed for the 50 out
of a total of 30 riders, 3 pulled the first day. Granted, it is wonderful
for us because the vet check lines are nonexistent and the trails are wide
open. It was hot and humid but plenty of water on trail and my horse
vetted in on the second day with a pulse of 36 after 10 minutes, so I would
not say he was stressed.
Since 90+ degree heat and 90+% humidity is what we train in, I did not
think twice about entering this ride. I am only mentioning this because
Truman's observation about eastern horses, The only folks there were the
normal locals with a few from Indiana.
Has there been a lack of participation out west and on the east coast due
to H & H or is it just something I am imagining here in Ohio? Several
horses I know are out for the season, but mostly due to lameness, not
metabolics. Just curious.
Sweltering in the Midwest-
Shannon Loomis and Quail Meadow Star