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[RC] President's Cup Race (in my opinion) - KimFue

This is only my opinion and as I reread what I wrote I know it sounds harsh.  I apologize for not being able to put my opinion in words that are softer and less offensive.  I know I may be sorry I ever posted this to a public list but I am just so tired of the endless propaganda campaign that is being waged to promote the UAE style of racing through e mails I receive and advertizing on both endurance.net and Endurance News. 

Sandy wrote that she would like to see Americans interviewed at the President's Cup.  Any American that is over there to be interviewed obviously agrees with the "President Cup Concept" or they wouldn't participate in that venue as a rider, vet, or trainer.? When the best US riders accept invitations to race they are in essence telling the world that they and unfortunately the USA (they do represent US endurance riding even if it is not "formal representation"because the home country is mentioned and many of these same riders do represent the US at FEI events) that this type of racing is OK.? It is amazing what a lot of money and hype and hoopla can cover up....this is really not that much different than a back yard jack pot race (fast courses, betting, and big purses) wearing the clothing of an Olympic style event.? I may not like this style of endurance riding and I do not think it is good for the sport but what I hate even more is the hypocrisy of so many riders that choose to participate.? I wish those riders would just come out and say we are here for the free trip, the perks, and the purse.? But instead I have heard so many praise UAE and the racing system created in the middle east.? I would bet that these same endurance riders would condemn this type of riding if it popped up in the US without the "big bucks" backing it.? In my eyes, the top riders around the world? are invited and bought only to bring legitimacy and prestige to an event that would otherwise be condemned by most of the international endurance community.? I could stomach this a lot better if every one were just honest about what is going on.? There are many equestrian sports that become corrupt from big money....this type of endurance racing would not be the first.

Kim Fuess