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Re: [RC] Riding Cavalry - Heidi SmithHOWEVER, cavalry riding on the FEI and international level would neatly address some of the issues that have cropped up (crew vehicles running beside the horses and "jockeys") and level the playing field. At an FEI level, there is plenty of opportunity to HAVE a crew, so I would not say that the playing field is unlevel now. As long as all can avail themselves to the same things, that's level. Many of the FEI rides that I've attended are very strict about crewing anywhere but in designated spots, and having managed a Pan-Am, I know I had to very clearly designate the handful of spots other than vet checks that riders were allowed any outside assistance. So although there are pictures of people driving along with spray rigs, in reality, at most FEI events, they are likely only doing it for several yards, in a spot that also happens to be the spot that the photographer can access the horses as well. Having ridden a great deal without a crew, I appreciate it when rides have "cavalry" divisions, and I think it is a really neat thing to do. I'd love to see more rides offer a cavalry award. But different folks have different priorities, and being able to ride to the horse's capability without limiting him by the rider's own weariness at checks is also a viable and desirable thing to do. I personally kind of cringe when I see the FEI riders being referred to as "jockeys"--they do a whole lot more than just sit up there and steer. Just because they have some help on the ground doesn't mean they don't have to work every step of the way, evaluating the horse, making decisions, etc. While it might be fun to watch, I don't think that a car race where the driver has to pump his own gas and change his own tires is going to replace Indy, either. His pit crew does not take anything away from his ability to drive. Heidi =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Ridecamp is a service of Endurance Net, http://www.endurance.net. Information, Policy, Disclaimer: http://www.endurance.net/Ridecamp Subscribe/Unsubscribe http://www.endurance.net/ridecamp/logon.asp Ride Long and Ride Safe!! =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
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