Re: RC: I'm a insecure Newbie

[Horsestwo@aol.com]

Peggy;

You have probably already received some variation of this response but here's
another one.  There will be every variety of horseperson at the ride you plan
to attend.  There will be very experienced riders that are not showoffs, some
that are, some that think they are better than they are, some that are better
than they think, and every thing in between.  By in large, you will not be
made to think or feel that you are unwelcome or stupid just because you are a
newbie.  People are people, some are shy and some are gregarious, etc.  Some
of the most experienced riders with great reputations for taking excellent
care of their horses are truly nice people and some are blankety-blanks.  The
top riders have the tack that works for their horse and like most of us, have
been thru several types of saddles trying to find ONE that fits both horse and
rider.  It has nothing to do with having to have a certain brand name like in
the show ring.

I showed up at my first ride in a rented trailer with my part-bred, fat
gelding, all alone.  No one was especially nice (there isn't a "welcome wagon)
nor especially rude.  I watched as the self proclaimed "top dog" proceeded to
get so drunk that he was staggering thru camp obviously unable to take care of
his horse.  That will cure any ideas that just because someone has done x
number of miles or has won so many rides he/she is to be emulated.  This guy
thru the years has gone thru countless horses all in his desire to bring some
measure of fame to his name and he has only made a bad reputation.  So go to
your ride and have fun, put your horse's welfare first, learn (ask questions
of the vets when they're not busy or of some riders if you're not shy) and
remember to filter everything thru the sieve of good sense.  Remember that
"speed kills".  If you finish, be sure to thank your horse for attaining one
of "your" goals and if you don't finish, thank your horse for the learning
experience.  If you ride with others be sure to ride your own ride don't get
caught up in the conversation or the competition.  Be sure to concentrate on
how your horse feels to you as you know him and are responsible to him and for
him.  

Just don't back out of an event because you think you'll stick out.  Every one
of the riders there had to start somewhere and that's where you are now.  At
the beginning of a really fun, satisfying sport.  


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