Basically, I agree with this
definition. It's just that one gets so tired of all the wrangling about
what LD is, or isn't. The one thing I am truly firm about is not using the
top ten for judging BC in LD rides. I can remember back when we offered a
very difficult 30-mile ride. Riders would come with the attitude, "I've
got this great horse, and I can win this 30-mile ride." LD rides were not
originated as races, but as opportunities for riders to learn about endurance on
a shorter distance. Or they were designed for returning horses to
endurance after recovering from injuries, or for introducing young or
inexperienced horses to the sport. Things became more complicated when
riders wanted to do only LD rides and not anything else, then wanted equal
recognition. It seems no matter what AERC does, someone, somewhere is
going to be unhappy about it.
I think LD is and should remain an ONLY TRAINING ride. I also
know some of the Vets and RM's and support their position 100%. Most of us are
not rocking the boat because we like the boat the way it is. Don
Huston
At 09:40 AM 11/30/2005 Wednesday, you wrote:
Kim, I have asked RMs about LD BC. Most RMs
will go along with the vets on this issue. As stated previously, there are
some very well known & outspoken vets and RMs in the West and Pacific
Southwest regions who are adamant about LD being ONLY TRAINING rides. Most
riders will not rock the boat. Obviously, I'm not one of them. And yes, I
know most of these vets & RMs.
