volunteers
ISLNDGRL@aol.com
Sun, 15 Dec 1996 02:48:31 -0500
Teddy, thank you so much for that wonderful post on volunteers! I have
suffered from five years of human and equine disasters, and therefore have
been unable to "break-in" to distance riding as a competitor. I have
volunteered many times and have enjoyed each event immensley. Not to
mention, the incredible amount of information I have learned from all
involved. Unfortunately for me, because of my schedule, I lose a significant
amount of pay when I take time off. But hey! To be in that enviroment is
worth every penny and more. I was incredibly upset when the subject of $$$
came up. I read the posts and thought "My God! The sport is going to change
before I can even get into it!!" I am not an AERC member, I am against the
$$$ issue. I am also against having a professional level of competition, for
all of the reasons that have already been mentioned many times. I also
believe a professional level will change the comraderie.... the familial
enviroment at rides. We had an experience with a vet judge who also competes
in endurance. He was hours late for vet-in, the riders had many questions.
After the riders dinner, the vet spoke and became VERY angry with the group
for their multiple questions. He began raising his voice and shouting ,
then made remarks such as "You have nothing to worry about, this is
kindergarten stuff compared to endurance!" ( it was a 25CTR) "You and your
fat paddock potatoes can race in here and be fine!" My point is that he
had a superior feeling because he does strictly endurance and this was a CTR.
I can't imagine what attitudes may prevail when people start making money at
this. I was supposed to record for him. I told management that I got paid
to work like that, that I had no intention of spending a minute more with him
if I had to. They found a very lovely woman to do the job, and I did PR's.
Many thanks to all of you working hard to teach us . Your efforts are
truly appreciated. Someday, things will fall into place, and I am going to
get a chance to compete. And with all of your help, I may be the smartest
rookie out there! Happy Holidays, Have a healthy and safe New Year.
Kathy
Moriah(when do I get to go?)
Danny ( you can't make me go!)
Natiff ( I'd go if my hip would work!)
Someday Ranch, Fl