There was an interesting series of articles in recent issues of "Trail
Blazer" implying that some endurance horses run cold, especially in cold
temps. This could lead to cramps. Misty had a cramp in the left hamstring
at about 92 miles on the Long Leaf (the high that day was 55 and it was
getting very cold). The cramp was below where the rump rug would provide
protection. I massaged it out and we walked about two miles where my pit
crew was to meet me. Kathy massaged while I made a make shift *super" rump
rug with a wool cooler.
I got aboard and we walked about 1/4 mile and Misty loosened up nicely so
we trotted for a few miles. I had to find a tree so at about 99 miles I
got off. She was fine but I was too stiff to get my foot up to the stirrup
(one of the draw backs of a 16 hand horse). We walked in and the cramp
didn't return - thank goodness.
Better luck next time.
Truman
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The race is not always to the swift, but to those that keep running.
Truman and Mystic "The Horse from HELL" Storm
prevatt@lds.loral.com
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