ridecamp@endurance.net: Re: [endurance] Pre-ride instructions; red ribbons, slamming, NATRC

Re: [endurance] Pre-ride instructions; red ribbons, slamming, NATRC

BECHACK@aol.com
Thu, 18 Apr 1996 19:19:53 -0400

OK, here I go on to my soap-box.

I know I am as yet only a "limited distance" rider, but many things have
surfaced over the last year that really get to me.

1. At one ride there wasn't enough water for the "shorties" the 50's and
100's had been through firse. Their horses needed it More? I don't think
so.

2. Being looked down on by many of the 50's riders. No we aren't going
fast, No we don't want to top 10, we want to finish with a live horse.. I do
not have the where-with-all to own a disposable horse. And I love the two I
have!

3. Several times we will be on "loops " with the 50's riders. One ride we
All started together..a new experience for us. Now since I know I am going
MUCH slower than you top 10ers, I would gladly move over , or even off of the
trail completely. But MANY riders came up on us quickly, AND NEVER SHOUTED
OUT THAT THEY WERE PASSING, just blew past us, without warning, and upsetting
us and our horses. IMHO< if you are going to pass another horse, even on a
wide trail, that it is only courteous to warn the rider up ahead. They could
be "lane changing" for better footing, not realizing you were there, and get
in front of you at just the wrong time. Please don't assume we can hear
your horse. Our horses are making noise, helmets muffle noise, and the wind
can obliterate any last chance of hearing anything. Please, I WILL GLADLY
GET OUT OF YOUR WAY IF I KNOW YOU ARE THERE!!!

I have a few more beefs, but I will save them for another time.

Becky H
Hoping for 1st 50 this year
Horse is ready, Rider not...Yet