Re: Please Support Endurance Riding!
Mateef@aol.com
Sat, 14 Dec 1996 12:50:32 -0500
I have only recently (two weeks ago) subscribed to ridecamp. I have been an
endurance rider for a very short time and am still eager to learn more and do
more rides. I have been reading with great interest all the exchanges
concerning the Cosequine Challenge. Up until now I have been very undecided
how I feel about big money in endurance riding. I also have come from a
horse show background as many of you have. Endurance riding offers more
comraderie and a sense of accomplishment then horse shows ever could. But
the fact is I do like to compete. If we didn't like to compete we would all
just trail ride. There are lots of recreational trail rides out there with
pot luck suppers, etc. The idea of qualifying for these "big money rides"
appeals greatly to me. The fact that I qualified would be gratifying in
itself and as Tracy pointed out, it would be a built in safety factor for the
horses AND riders. I also have faith in the AERC system and vets that the
controls in place now are sufficient to ensure a good ride. Though Teddy's
suggestion of a vet check at 5 miles to go should also be implemented for
those that might get carried away from the adrenilin rush we all sometimes
get caught up in. I will be following with great interest the outcome of
this discussion. Please add my support to the addition of this new phase of
the sport. It shows that everyone is THINKING. Thanks
Sallie