I may be just a tad prejudiced, since Susan Gibson has published many of my
articles in Trail Blazer over the years, but I really feel a personal (as
opposed to professional) need to respond to all the "bad press" she's been
getting on this digest lately. The essence of it is, if you haven't tried
being the race manager of an international quality 100 mile endurance race,
thousands of miles away from your home town (Race of Champions), and running
a "one man show" business, (TrailBlazer) all at the same time.....give her a
break!!!!!
Susan's has been the premier, first and foremost, most long lasting and
dedicated magazine for the past two decades. TB is on the cutting edge of
sports-medicine, veterinary, ethical and controversial issues which effect
our sport. Although I have had my "discussions" with Susan over philosophy,
finances, and as my editor over the years, I have the utmost respect for her
as a warm and caring person, one of the hardest workers I know, and the
brilliant producer of what is without a doubt the world's finest and longest
running endurance championship.
Does she answer her phone/fax promptly? Does she have a secretary? Was ROC
a son of a gun to put on this year? Was TrailBlazer late coming out this
summer? No, No, Yes, and Yes.
Is Susan sorry? Yes. Despite working 70+ hours per week, she missed her
print date, and had to wait weeks to get another one. She wrote a one page
letter of apology in the issue which everyone who has phoned or faxed her
this summer will soon receive first class mail, along with her personally
hand written letter. (They'll get their regular subscription issue, also)
After eighteen years of educating, inspiring, and working damned hard for
all of us in the sport of endurance riding, Susan deserves just a little
slack......
and a lot of appreciation!!
Lari Shea
Lari Shea
Ricochet Ridge Ranch
24201 N. Hwy One
Fort Bragg, CA 95437
ph707-964-7669/fax 707-964-9669