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[RC] Fearless riders, older riders - beth glover

Buddy's post reminded me of when I was 19 years old, fit to do Triathalon ( but "girls" weren't allowed) and was summarily kicked off the swim team because I was now "too old" and was going to lose all  of my speed because of my age.    Damn did I ever cheer the two 30 year old Women who medaled in swimming in the last Olympics. 

Yes when I was 13 I was more fearless and would jump horses over any wall bareback with no helmet. I did all kinds of fearless stunts up into my 20's. Now that I am past 40, and have insurance premiums to pay, a family to raise, memories of accidents,  I am more "fearful".  My equipment is of better quality, kept in better repair, and I do a hundred things a day around horses that are meant to save my life. We all have a helmet, the horses are of better disposition, and have superior training to the ones that I wasted my time with as a youngster.  I have had more lessons, gone to more classes and seminars, visited more ranches, done more shows and competitions, and I am now a better rider.  I am now of the opinion that I don't need or want to waste time on crappy horses that are bad actors. I am more tired, of course I work harder, and longer hours..but I have the self discipline to drag my butt out there and exercise myself and my horse more consistently.  I think in all sports, people are pushing the e nvelope of what is "the end" for their athletes. Look at basketball!

And no matter what, when I am feeling tired, stress, overworked, lazy and "old", I have the example of Julie Suhr and Dick Dawson, to remind me that I need to get over myself and get off the couch and continue with the hard work of conditioning for rides. Frequently I am grateful for such leadership.

 Beth ( who is again pooped out today, but I intend to get out there)



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