Re: Last 50

["Patrick E. Allen" <jfhr@inet1.inetworld.net>]

Becky, so sorry to hear about Jam. My prayers, thoughts, and arms are wrapped
around you. Evelyn

Becky Hackworth wrote:

> Since I have moved up to REAL endurance, we were to have a go at the GEO BUN
> BUSTER this last weekend.
>
> Daughter Heather and I left on time Friday morning.  Got to camp set up.
> Vets were early, both horses vetted through without any problems.  Both
> horses eating, drinking, peeing and pooping normally.
>
> Ride goes well.  Jam ( my horse ) is going well, strong.  He likes to
> canter, but I was trying to make him trot more.  At lunch, vet said he
> looked slightly stiff as many of the horses did in the 50 mph wind with
> light rain.  Walked slowly out of camp until they warmed up.  Trotted off,
> cantered, no problem.
>
> Vet # 3 was 13 miles.  About 1/2 way there I noticed a slight offness.  Jam
> has had lots of "front end" problems.  splints, one suspensory on left,
> months off each time, probably adding to the moving up delay.  Declaring at
> the Vet in is  "lots of old stuff in the front, nothing new".   He seemed to
> work out of it by the vet check, but vet saw more than I could feel.  We
> pulled.  Heather went on to finish with good friend Cindy Crook ( thanks
> again Cindy ) for 1st Jr honors.
>
> Had difficulty getting and out of the 2 horse straight load rescue trailer.
> Used to my big ol stock.  Back at the trailer Jam was pacing.  THIS IS NOT
> LIKE THIS HORSE.  He is a very quiet camper.  Took him over to Barney
> Flemming ( vet and friend) gave him a shot of Banamine, seemed to do the
> trick.  Vital signs were normal.
>
> After awards left for home with Barney's OK to travel.  Got home late.
> Horses seem glad to be home and acting normally.  Put them up.  In the
> morning all was not good.
>
> Jam was down.  Short version: had to put Jam down with what ended up being
> the result of an unknown long term illness with the end coinciding with this
> ride.
>
> He gave me his best for 43 miles while dying inside.  This horse will never
> be forgotten.  His Ride photo's are in front of me on the wall above the
> computer desk, where they will remain.  Reminders of 315 completion miles,
> and showing me that I can do 50's.
>
> I will do one more 30 at Pendelton, as my horse will not be 5 until May 8th,
> then we will move right up to slow 50's.
>
> Thanks to all of my supporters, known and unknown.
>
> Happy trails to all...no matter the distance
>
> Becky Hackworth
>
> Alpine, CA