[RC] RC] Tevis, True Sportsmanship and Horsemanship - paul - FXLivestock
Paul,
I really enjoyed reading your story. In my experiences at Tevis, what you write about is not that unusual. I have heard and witnessed incredible sportmanship and acts of kindness by both riders on the trail and riders who were pulled earlier in the day. I can think of one incidence just a couple of years ago when a rider sacrificed his completion for an over time to help a fellow rider on the trail. Every time I have ever come into the Foresthill vet check, I am overwelmed by the generosity and offers of help from riders who were pulled earlier in the day and other riders' crew. I think this is because we all understand the challenge of this trail and want to do what ever is possible for those that are still going down the trail. Maybe I have been lucky not to see the negative side, but this ride does seem to bring out the best in most riders and spectators.
Congratulations to all who made it to the start line. I know this sounds weird but I always feel this is an accomplishment in itself. Although, I didn't finish this year, it was one of the best Tevis experiences I have had. I had a great time before, during, and after the ride. I can't say enough about how the volunteers, ride officials, and the ride vets made this a very positive experience even though I didn't finish. I especially want to thank my crew and Starbucks buddy, Laura Hayes, Kate, the driver who kept three pulled riders entertained on the 2 hour trip out of Last Chance, Fred Cluskey's/Holly Davie's crew who took care of me and my horse when I was dropped off at Forest Hill, and Dean Hall who was nice enough to go out of his way to get my horse from Forest Hill back to the fair grounds (which was in the opposite direction he was headed).
Kim Fuess
AERC #6648
I appreciated being able to see and hear about the Tevis race winners, but wanted to share this you folks. While riding at Tevis this week, I was priviledged to see as great an act of sportsmanship and horsemanship I have ever witnessed.
