In response to JWrights message, I agree wholeheartedly with her statement
that horses and riders are not created equally. As for natural selection,
that went by the wayside thousands of years ago when man domesticated
horses and began selective breeding. My own horse has crappy conformation
but is an excellent trail horse. I would not consider a training regimine
without dressage for precisely that reason, I have to train and condition
him to carry himself most effectively over varied terrain for long periods
of time and for many years. I did not buy him based solely on his
conformation and ability but do not regret my decision (usually) and I do
what I like to do with what I have.
In regards to the letter about breeds to do everything, I recommend Morgans
and Morgan crosses. We (my Morgan, Star, and I) compete in first level
dressage as well as lots of CTR. We also event and have even done
Preliminary level combined tests. Star is very versatile and does
everything I ask and does it well enough to be considered tough
competition.
Ah, enough for now, these are subjects dear to my heart and I fear I could
type on forever. It is nice to be back.
Oh, one of my best Christmas presents was a HRM from my Dad. Now I need to
reread the archives to learn how to use the darn thing.
Shannon Loomis and Quail Meadow Star (who has moved to Columbus to be
closer to his beloved owner)