Endurance.Net Ridecamp Archives

I would like to agree with Ann--I find it outrageous that people would  
extrapolate those posts from a single ignorant person to widespread  
non-support of the American effort.  Like Heidi said, the groundwork  
is in place for a continued competitive effort by our team on the  
world stage, for those who wish to compete or support it.  Congrats to  
Becky and the team members, without the bad luck of lightning and a  
virulent virus, it sounded from the journals as if the foundation laid  
was going to provide an excellent framework for a maximum effort.   
Thanks to everyone who was able to travel and crew.

Loved the journals, Kathy's was so upbeat and detailed--people don't  
appreciate how difficult the logistics can be in a country where you  
don't speak the language, can't just run to a store and pick up what  
you're used to having.  Manure forks!  While you must be polite and  
considerate of the host's wanting to help--rules and schedule changes  
mean you must be flexible even if you're not well-rested.

I'd have to agree about the "cast of thousands" in terms of crews, at  
the point to point I shot for endurance.net in Andalucia, rider  
friends and family would take charge of the horse at each vet check,  
with up to 6 or 7 people dumping water on the horses, which seemed  
used to it and relaxed.  It's amazing that horses can travel at these  
speeds for this distance--like others, I'll be watching for their  
longevity.  When money is no object, can those without it meet the  
challenge?

Like Ann, I have no fear of FEI taking over our American sport.   I  
can cheer on our competitors without being interested in it personally  
(except for maybe shooting it sometime.)  I am rather derisive about  
the 2010 WEG's venue, however--having it around the Horsepark makes me  
contemptuous of the decision makers--wanting spectator friendly over  
world-class competition.  It is not very far to the Daniel Boone  
Distance Riders' spectacular home turf, and makes me think the  
endurance committee is full of either wimps or people that like the  
flat-track style.  Such a waste.  It keeps me from wanting to  
participate as crew or volunteer.

I haven't read Steph's reports yet.

Lynne
<http://www.photo.lynnesite.com>
<http://lynnesite.blogspot.com/>



On Nov 13, 2008, at 8:17 AM, <a.hoins@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx> <a.hoins@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx 
> wrote:

> Most of the time I read, glean, enjoy, and exercise the
> delete key on Ridecamp. But I just could not resist the
> opportunity to toss my 2 cents into the foray.
>
> First, A Big Thank You!!! to our team and also Kathy, Meg
> and Becky for your posts. I eagerly awaited each for
> updates on everyone.
>
> Kathy, I found by you keeping us informed about you and
> the rest of the team's experiences there was a sense of
> being right there, and it was fun! I have not been a fan
> of FEI, but you have helped change my opinion
> somewhat and heightened my interest. Your guys are great!
> And I love Tee!
>
> By following the emails and the webcast of the race I no
> longer fear FEI influence on American endurance. That is
> as long as people continue to love and embrace what makes
> American endurance what it is... for all of us. That is
> everyday people, regardless of their income, ability,
> etc.. having the opportunity to compete on the trail for
> personal goals, awards of varying recognition, or against
> other competitors if so desired. American endurance is
> "amateur friendly." As long as "Joe the amateur
> endurance rider" can compete without the need or
> requirement of vast sums of money, well you know, like
> having to marry a Sultan or be declared a bank and be
> bailed out by the Feds, we will be ok.
>
> ca chink ;o)
>
> Ann
> Penny and Smoke
> SW PA

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