Re: RC: Hot mare and slow 50

[Farafix@aol.com]

Liz,

You didn't say how much of a conditioning base you have on your mare outside 
of competitions.  Personally, I like a good yr of steady conditioning to make 
sure the horse has the legs (tendons & ligaments) to handle the distance.
You were probably smart to hold the mare back in terms of "mental" 
conditioning/training.  You want to be able to control the pace --- not all 
horses have the sense to take care of themselves.  You've gotten off on the 
right "hoof" teaching your mare that you control the pace, not her.
If you have a good base to ensure you don't overdo it on the legs, I would 
let her go a little faster on the next ride (not on the first half when 
excitement is a big motivator), and pay close attention to your vet checks & 
what the vets tell you to help decide if it's safe to proceed a little 
faster.  Watch her legs closely after the ride & for a day or so after for 
any heat & fill, that will help you assess if you've overdone it.
There are so many variables on each ride --- if your next ride is hot & humid 
with lots of climbs & lots of hardpacked or asphalted roads, "faster" may 
actually be a slower time than the ride you just did.
If you have any 2 day 50's or 2 day 60 or 80 CTR's in your area, they are 
excellent for building the horse up for the 1 day 50's, as well as teaching 
them to pace themselves without racing.

Good luck & have fun,

Nancy
Md


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