>My question was WHERE do people usually carry them? In my
experience, anything I carry on the horse has a tendency to get beat up over
time.
Riders don't carry them. The typical procedure
is.
Pay your entry fee, initial details written in your
book by ride office staff. Book returned to you.
Present your book and horse to vet for pre-ride
inspection. Details recorded in book (same as card) Book retained by ride office
staff
You do not take the book on course.
When you present your horse for vet checks during
the ride, they have a desk where all the books 'live'. Probably an
identical system to the card system. (or do you take your cards with you?) At
the end of the ride, the book is returned with your buckle/trophy or whatever,
or if you vet out, you just collect it from the secretary and go
home.
On rare occasions where there are traveling check
points (say 5% rides? or some FEI's?, can't remember), some ride organisers have
designed a little zip-up pocket in the front of the bib or number that you wear
during competition.