Ridecamp: [RC] LD, tough trails, etc.

I can't believe that I'm going to jump into this...wish I had the sense to
just have "the vapors" instead, but since I left my magnolias in
Louisiana, Western life has led me to perdition....LD rides in my opinion
should be educational experiences for those who hope to move up to
endurance or those who have a young horse not ready for endurance and/or a
fun, relaxing ride for those unable to ride 50s due to physical challenges
or a horse that is not suited to longer distances.  Truly, I do believe
that CTRs are a much better place for folks that want to stay at short
distances.  I believe that Jackie Bumgardner used to announce LD
completions in alphabetical order and I really thought that was a great
idea.  If it's more than that, I think it ought to have its own
organization.  Our sport has defined endurance riding as 50 miles or
longer.  If it's less, it is not endurance.  One of my least favorite
experiences locally is to hear about someone who has finished one 25 mile
ride discussed among non-endurance horse folks as being an expert
endurance rider.  Of course, I try to keep my mouth shut because that's
how I was reared, but sadly, my manners have been badly damaged by the
company I keep at endurance rides...sometimes I just have to stir the
kitty litter a bit.  Now, on to an even more irritating topic...tough
rides.  I am so tired of hearing endurance riders of this generation (not
all of you, of course) whine about tough, "ankle breaking" trails.  The
sport was founded on Tevis, the Old Dominion, the Big Horn 100, Virginia
City 100, etc.  It was never supposed to be for whimps.  I didn't make the
time cut-off at Tevis at the last check...do you think I was
disappointed...of course.  But, it never would occur to me to say the
trail should be easier.  The fault was mine, not the trail.  The whole
point is supposed to be that it's a challenge and only a few people can
accomplish it.  I've finished the Big Horn 100 six times, but twice I've
been over-time and couldn't get completion.  I cried my eyes out in
disappointment, but never blamed the trail.  "Buck up".  Thanks for
listening.  Cindy Collins, AERC#176, 7000+miles


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