Re: RC: Oakland Hills Incident

[Klc5355@aol.com]

In a message dated 7/1/2000 9:58:15 AM Pacific Daylight Time, 
guest@endurance.net writes:

> Dave was running second after the lunch stop behind another guy (who also 
> races for first on the same horse two weeks in a row).  
I think maybe I will weigh in here now, first of all I did not come in at any 
time ahead of David. But I did certainly go out ahead at all vet checks. My 
horse was simply doing better at the checks. I did win back to back ride on a 
horse that is in his 5th season. And as others have pointed out I am carefull 
with my horse. I dont use a crop, I dont beat my horse. I ride vet check to 
vet check, if my horse needs to slow down he does. I did not start either 
ride with the intent to win, it just happened because he was strong and doing 
good. I do not have to win, if it happens fine, I will be proud of my horse, 
if it doesnt, I am still proud of my horse. There does seem to be an 
implication here that I was maybe abusing my horse with back to back wins. I 
resent that very much. You can ask anyone who knows me, from Becky Hart to 
Julie Suhr, I dont abuse my horses. My horses would know what a crop is or 
spurs or anything eles artificial to push them beyond thier own desires. Yes 
I won back to backs and I am proud of it.  I am sorry for Davids loss, Dancer 
was a fine horse and I am sure he is hurting over his loss. I will not 
comment on his riding, that is for him to deal with.   
Ken Cook AERC WEST