Something is puzzling me about the 25 mile endurance races (or rides) and the
50 mile endurance races (or rides). It sounds like if someone did a 25 miler
in two and a half hours they are looked down upon because they rode it too
fast. But when I read the results of the 50 milers who finished in three and
a half hours on the same race (or ride), it seems like to me , if my figures
are correct, that the rider doing the 50 miles has gone faster than the rider
that did the 25 miles. So why is it frowned upon to go that fast on the 25
and not the 50? I do believe that giving a best condition award for the 25
milers is a great idea. Tammy
--- I ride with Tammy and I am also puzzled.I understand there can be a problem with green riders and/or green or unconditioned horses racing 25 mile rides.
However, there are a few other points I want to make.
Some folks ride quite a lot, recreationally, at endurance pace and only want to do a 25. These people often, just by entering, allow a ride to be put on. There are people that only want to do 25, that should still be encouraged into the sport-there is lots for them to learn, and certainly a feeling of accomplishment.
I will relate the following story. I seriously considered doing the Camp FAr WEst 50. My mare was sound, and in great condition, and no doubt I could have ridden a conservative 50 with no problem. It is an easy 50. But I was very concered, because of the cold rainy spring, that we had not conditioned in heat any. When we got to the ride, I was further worried by the vet, who was very concerned by the heat and humidity. So, rather than put my mare at risk I opted for the 25. Becasue we rode it in about 2 1/5 hours, we did it in the cool morning. Because our horses were very fit and the course with no hills, but one baby hills at the end, we cantered just about the whole thing, watching the HRM and checking for dehydration. The horses had a blast! My mare (big brag comming) had the lowest pulse seen at the pre ride check and also at the first vet stop. So we did the ride in abo 2 1/2 hours, and came back with a horse with pleanty left, no stiffness at all after the ride. Judith Ogus did the 50 in 3 1/2 hours, whch means she did twice the distance at a faster pace. Now, before I am accused to comparing my mare to Tam, I still maintain that doing that pace on that course for the 25 was nothing my mare was not conditioned for. It was a piece of cake. If there is something wrong with my reasoning, can someone point it out?
I still am glad I did not do the 50. It got quite hot and humid. I sure would have done an entire 50 at a slower pace, and also would have been out in the humidity longer.
So, I also am puzzled. I think if there is some underlying scorn at doing limited distance, you will have a harder time attracting new rider to the sport.
Karen
To: ENDURANCE@MOSCOW.COM