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Re: [RC] 'endurance'/LD/fun rides - sandy . l . holderThey had sent out flyers for the Oakland Hills event. I don't think anyone doing the shorter rides had ever had someone with your experience to mentor them. Some were pony club members that thought you shouldn't let a horse drink if he was hot! Thanks, Sandy
> At the Oakland Hills ride last year, there were young people and > older folks doing a 7 or 11 miler 'starter ride' (can't remember exactly > what they called it). I've got some beginners who will be coming to their first ever rides soon. They'll be doing the 25. That sounded like a challenge to them at first, then I explained to them that they'll probably be done in 4 hrs or less assuming they trot which they plan to do. They were disappointed. They ride 4 hrs. all the time." What's the use of all this camping and such for that?" is sort of their reaction. I don't want them getting the habit of considering an endurance ride an "afternoon out" and loading their horses right up and heading home, but hit's hard to tell them they should stay when they're done by 11:30 AM. I just don't see that riding 4 or 5 hrs. is such a big deal that we have to offer something even shorter. We've got little kids doing the 25 on Shetland ponies. How low does our entry level have to go? I think by trying to glorify the LD we've convinced ourselves that just completing one is a big deal so we must offer something even shorter for an entry level. In truth, there's a huge difference between those who race the LD for year end awards and just completing one in 6 hrs. I just don't see the need for anything shorter as a training level. I think the idea of a clinic in conjunction with a first time LD is a great idea. Even better would be having some mentors (who have to be entered in the ride according to the rules) to agree to pace with some of the newcomers, but with just a little guidance a person who has already been trail riding their horse should be able to begin in LD. Just my opinion. Angie _________________________________________________________________ The information transmitted is intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed and may contain confidential and/or privileged material. Any review, retransmission, dissemination or other use of, or taking of any action in reliance upon, this information by persons or entities other than the intended recipient is prohibited. If you received this in error, please contact the sender and delete the material from any computer. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP is a Delaware limited liability partnership.
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