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[RC] Novice Riders Idea - melanie . oFirst, I want to admit that I am a newbie having only ridden one 50-mile ride (and several 25s) in the last 3 years, so I may very well be bringing up an old topic. But I have seen several other suggestions for Novice riders and wanted to share mine.
What about, instead of creating more rules, critieria, or work for the vets, all Novice riders (as defined by # of completions, rides or miles, etc) are required to ride with a Sponsor just like the Jr. riders do? First (or second or third) timers, or those stepping up to a new distance would follow the same rules that the Jr. riders do: ride WITH an experienced adult.
For those that arrive at a ride w/o a sponsor, one could be found at the ride. Ride Management could offer an incentive, like a free ride entry, to those experienced riders willing to Sponsor a novice. Yes, it's like babysitting, but it's also an opportunity to educate and introduce people to the sport in such a way that they will have a fun, safe ride, and maybe stick with it in the future--just as it is for the juniors. Those that do not stick with their sponsors can be pulled at the vet check before (hopefully) they've had a chance to get themselves or their horse into trouble.
Just a thought...
mel
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