Each and every one of us has
been a newbie, I still am and hope I never stop learning . If it
weren't for LD I never would have gone on to 50's. My first 30 was with my
grade [arab] who is of an indeterminent age [at the time approx 20] . Pre
ride vet check she was given an overall B and I was told she had "wind
puffs" and might be pulled at the first check point. The next day ,
my calm, sweet girl got off the trailer ready to run, and we did! We
started in the back with a buddy and they proceed to pass every horse they
saw. Unfortunately, the front runners lost the trail. We
didn't and came into the first vet check in 1st place. She and her buddy
vetted through fine , and after the hold were off. We ended up tying for
first place , she finished with an overall score of A and also tied for
BC. I had no idea how to take a pulse, hadn't praqcticed
trotting out, didn't know how to cool her down, in general was the
ultimate uninformed rider. But I love the mare and I asked questions of
everybody, most people were nice, some nasty, but if you don't ask how do you
learn. I was very lucky on my first ride and had a great experience and I
tell everyone there are no stupid questions, sthats the only way you can
learn. And never take offence if instruction seems too basic,
someone at that riders meeting may need to hear the stuff everyone is supposed
to know. Sorry I've run on so much but all the veterans out there should
recall their start in the sport and be there to help the new members of our
great sport. If I wasn't so long winded I would get into Lynn and
Indy's 1st 100 .