Multi-day Rides
Roberta Lieberman (rlieberman@phillips.com)
Wed, 20 Nov 1996 10:11:29 -0500
From our friend Luke Steele in Australia:
I have just caught up with my reading and would like to put my
two-bobs worth in for general interest on multi-day rides.
My experience is limited to two three-day and two two-day events. I
usually ride conservatively, as each ride is only a step in the year's
programme. You will find, to your amazement that the horse actually
gets better the further you go! On the third day of the 156 mile
Jog-A-Long marathon, I had trouble stopping Nikita from running away
with me, on the second day of the 150 mile Mt Cole Challenge it was
the same. Others I have spoken to have had the same experience. Just
remember only you know how far you and your horse have to travel
together. Your horse will probably think it is just a 50 miler, and
may be confused when you saddle up the next day to do the same. By the
third day, you both are in rythym, your horse's system is tuned up and
you will find it easier. I would expect the ride organiser will set an
easier track for your last day. So all I would say is, don't try to
ride each day as a race. Take your time, go easy downhill and finish
each day with plenty in the tank. You will get there. Make sure you
and your horse eat plenty. Each night before you go to bed, walk the
horse around for about 20 mins or so, to stretch his legs and have a
pick of grass if there is any. Get up well before rideout time the
next day and walk him around again. Warm him up slowly and start out
easy. Good Luck helps, but Good Management is up to you.
And of course, don't forget to have fun! After all, why are we doing
this sport? Regards
Luke Steele, Australia.