Ridecamp: [RC] Need advice RE:firm/tactful yet gracious

guest of ridecamp goto33@aol
Would like to hear some advice from some seasoned riders that may have gone thru the same situation.
Am still fairly new, starting my second year, and like to take it
slowly. I have a horse that moves big; big ground covering trot.
My horse also is trained to go thru the water, puddles, mud, etc., without hesitation when asked.
When I start at the back, my horse catches up to most of the riders and wahts to get ahead. Holding him back uses his energy up so I try to stop and walk to create some space, or just go ahead of one person (I always ask first). The problem is when someone who has a horse that either doesn't like to be alone or won't negotiate obstacles well, they get right behind me. When I ask them to go on ahead they say no, that's o.k., your horse does a good job of pulling mine along. More recently, I went out almost ten minutes later than a rider from a vet check, and the person before me was waiting. I had told them I wanted to ride alone, but they stayed right in fromt. I'd cross the mud and they'd pass me and stay right ahead of my nose. I was finally able to hide in the woods until this person gave up and went on alone.  This has happened on several rides. My horse is ABLE to move quickly, but I don't think he's ready and don't want him to.
I have been told by some riders I'm being used, but as of yet can't figure out how to ride alone when I want.
I'd like to also say I have ridden with some VERY nice riders that are extremely curtious.
How do I basically 'put my foot down' without sounding offensive and how do I get my point accross????
Please help!
Desparate to Ride my own Ride


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