Re: RC: downhill at speed

[Truman Prevatt <truman.prevatt@netsrq.com>]

In my younger days - not that I am that old now mind you - we used to do
a lot of backpacking. One of our favorite things to do was to find a
scree field on a steep (the steeper the better) pitch. We'd then run
down it, more like ski down it. You couldn't walk it well but you could
sure boggie down it. 

I am sure in forgiving loam the horses find the same optimal speeds.

Truman

Laney Humphrey wrote:
> 
> Here's another thought:
>     Dot Wiggins suggestion to watch "Man from Snow River" reminded me
> of a local trail we call "the Snowy River trail" because it includes a
> VERY steep (i.e., almost vertical) slope about 50' long (forest loam,
> no rocks but it does have one sharp turn).  On this and other steep
> trails I've ridden, I've noticed that the horses that do them easily
> aren't made to go really slow.  Not that they're running full tilt but
> they seem happier with a little speed.  In my non-scientific way, I
> think they are taking advantage of gravity whereas if they are made to
> walk they have to resist gravity plus get their butts under them,
> which is much harder.
> Laney

-- 
Truman Prevatt
Mystic “The Horse from Hell” Storm 
Buck's Mystic Karma
Rocket a.k.a. Mr. Misty
Jordy a.k.a. Bridger (when he is good)
Danson Flame - hey dad I'm well now and ready to go!

Brooksville, FL


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