Angie, Really good post; I, too, dislike the "rubberband"
riders; Personally, I have always preferred to ride alone on a ride, but
of course, not always possible. Also, I have top tenned. Also BC,d.
My"strategy" is just keep a steady pace. I like to keep a steady,
medium trot; no walking except for steep climbs, and
sometimes some nice cantering when the trail allows it. After many years,
I found this was less tiring for horse and rider than a big, extended
trot. Of course, my horse had the God-awfulest trot; the vets used to give
me their condolences as they gravely handed my card to me at the pre ride
check; "You're going to ride that trot for 50
miles??!!" Renie
