Re: Limited Distance Program

["Nancy Mitts" <mitts_n@hotmail.com>]

The only problem I see when you have experienced, knowledgable people 
racing at 25 miles it's hard (for ride managers) to explain to newcomers 
(whose horses don't appear to be conditioned) why THEY shouldn't do it. 
There's always 1 or 2 who take the attitude "we're just trying to keep 
them from beating our friends" etc.& they'll show us. Sure enough they 
take off at a 12-15 mph (or faster) pace. If they have a good, 
naturalathlete, they'll pass the first vet check. Sometimes even the 
finish exam. Then, all of a sudden the adrenaline wears off & they have 
a horse that doesn't feel so good & really should be treated. Now we're 
just gouging them for more money! (vet bill). They pack up in a huff & 
leave, never to be seen again. I always just hope the horse is okay. 
Even worse are the people who really care deeply about their horse & 
unknowingly get caught up in a crowd. They are devastated to learn they 
may have done serious damage to their horse. Granted it isn't that 
extreme very often, but it always makes me feel really bad. 
Nancy Mitts


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