Some riders feel rules should be made and
followed so that new riders can understand the reprecussions of over-riding
their horse.
Others feel they are being stymied by more
rules.
Some embrace the CTR way of thinking and want
endurance to head in that direction, others want a separate sport.
One minute mentors are lauded and the next minute
someone is asking what their credentials are.
As a newer-than-a-newbie to this sport (I've never
done a ride or a CTR) I've been teaching myself as best I can via ridecamp and
books and asking lots of questions. However, my humble little opinion is
that there are enough rules. Don't make more. Its not going to
change a thing, just make more hassle and paperwork. Rider education is
the key. Education at all levels of experience. You are never too
old or too young to learn about your horse's health. AERC should focus on
how best to get the message across to all riders what it takes to have a happy
and healthy horse at the end of a ride, be it long or short. Mentoring is
wonderful in my way of thinking but forced mentoring is not.
Oh, and just to address my "Subject" line...no
offense to anyone, I really don't feel I'm better than anyone else...it was just
a silly way to get you all to read my post before hitting the delete
button.
