Re: Limited Distance
Luke Steele (luke.steele@fujitsu.com.au)
Wed, 29 Jan 1997 18:03:07 +1100 (EST)
Hello Ridecampers,
This LD thing has certainly attracted some interest! I have got way behind
in my digests, but couldn't help but notice this topic, and couldn't resist
commenting.
Rides of 25 to 35 miles certainly have a place in association with distance
riding. However, some of the problems detailed in this thread arose in our
sport in Australia (racing, etc.) and it was decided to no longer have
competitive rides of less than 50 miles. This happened some ten or more
years ago (before I was an ER). Rides of 25 to 35 miles are now classified
as non-competitive Training Rides. Completion awards are presented only,
fastest times are not recognised, a minimum time is set to prevent racing.
Now, it could be said that the 50 milers have turned into races as the 35
milers did. With times under 3 hours for 50 miles, one would have to wonder
how fast endurance horses can go without serious consequences, having seen
this from the point of view of a TPR steward. Of course, the riders/trainers
of those horses that do very fast times AND look after the horse (not just
meet criteria) are to be congratulated.
My mare Nikita started out with six months of limited distance rides back in
'92. This was such a good start for her career. Several LD rides gradually
conditioned her systems, then a few years of steady, careful riding legged
her up to the stage where she could handle the longer rides. This period of
conditioning taught me so much about her capabilities, and developed the
partnership that has enabled her to take out National Heavyweight Horse of
the Year for 1996.
I don't get a buzz out of speed, I get it out of completing the longer
distances with a sound and happy horse.
Now I am starting again with a young horse, Nikita is at stud. I will be
again starting with several LD rides later this year just to get Shadrach
accustomed to the procedures and increasing demands of this sport. I have
not programmed a 100 miler for him until late 1999.
So, I will be having fun in the shorter rides and look forward to the great
satisfaction of seeing Shadrach collect his first completion at a 25 to 35
mile ride in June or July this year.
TO COMPLETE IS TO WIN
Luke
Luke Steele
luke.steele@fujitsu.com.au