ridecamp@endurance.net: [endurance] Over-riding

[endurance] Over-riding

Unreplyable!SMTP!OutboundSyntaxError@mail.att.net
Mon, 27 Nov 1995 11:48:06 -0500

I tend to agree with the thought that no one knows what is happening on the
trail with a horse as well as its rider. Even the vets see only a snapshot of
the horse at the checks and have to make a judgment based on incomplete data.
Therefore, I prefer to think of the vet as another tool that I can use to help
my horse and me get through the ride as quickly and safely as possible. The
vet is obligated to advise and if he or she thinks it is necessary, to pull a
horse from the ride. Other people in the vicinity of the vets know even less
about what is happening with a given horse and should not be making statements
about ride participants.

We all have seen people who are highly focused on winning and have
front-runner fever. However, IMHO, these are not the same people who one sees
tailing a horse. A person does not tail unless that person has considerable
regard for the horse's welfare. It's just too much work and can be slower
than staying in the saddle.

I think that old Joe South song really fits that goes "And before you
criticize and accuse, walk a mile in my shoes...."


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Dave Bennett
e-mail: idj3q.office@mhs-tva.attmail.com
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