ridecamp@endurance.net: [endurance] Ribbons/stallions
[endurance] Ribbons/stallions
Alexandra (74672.737@compuserve.com)
10 Apr 96 12:06:49 EDT
It's great that someone has started this discussion about flagging. Before my
first ride I called the AERC and asked what color to use on my stallion to
identify him to the pack. I didn't want to use red because he didn't kick.
They didn't know and suggested red anyway to keep people away. Well it didn't
keep people away. And I started last. Horses slammed into us several times.
Notice I said earlier that he DIDN'T kick. Well after being slammed at EVERY
single race, at the water trough usually, now he does. And before anyone
suggests that I should hold him away from water until the others have left. Let
me tell you that I always go to the water after everyone else. Or I'm by my
self to begin with. Virtually every ride his head is in the tank and someone
will come flying in and just slam us.
By the fourth ride, Mirage had decided to do unto others before they did unto
us. And PRESTO a kicking horse.
We have been working to correct that situation.
Eventhough this is a competion and a race, it is not FOOTBALL, where you have to
tackle people for the water.
I do everything in my power to make Mirage a well mannered horse, no matter his
gender. If he's not safe , he doesn't go. It's as simple as that. It is
difficult to control anyone else's actions and horses, however.
If we remember to respect everyone's "space" whenever possible, competition can
still be safe and fun.
Alexandra and Mirage ( 96 degrees on Sunday, darn hot for a horse of any color)