In Germany at the moment we have a big discussion about endurance rules
within the VDD, which will resume in a complete new set of endurance rules
until end of the year for 1997... hopefully.
Because our today's regulations are very long and complicated (for long
rides, short, limited and driving) most of the german riders wants to have
more simple rules - and some of us do think that the AERC rules are partly a
good basis to make our own rules better.
I have some questions which I will adress to all of you, so we can find out
if the US-riders are happy with their rules and regulations and maybe give us
some tips:
1. Are there further rules for endurance rides which are not mentioned in the
AERC rules (found in AERC-homepage) for the different regions/ different
types of rides ? What for ?
2. Final vet examination.
Today on long rides (50 miles and more) in germany the vet exam for
completion is 8 hours (next morning) after the ride, which allows the vets a
good judgement especially of lameness and saddle soreness.
>From 1996 on, ride manager can select the time of final vet exam either 8
hours or 30 minutes after the ride.
What is your experience with the early final vet exam ? Do it increases the
speed of the rides ?
It's more difficult to make a final judgement about the soundness of the
horses so early after the ride and not fail to notice a major issue. What
should the vets do or the ride manager do for a good protection of the
competing horses when they have a early final vet exam ?
3. best condition awards.
Some of us do think, a good way to protect the horses on long rides is an
additional examination for best condition award next day. Today B.-C.-awards
are not common for endurance rides in germany.
Questions:
Is the B.C.-exam always next day after the ride, or is it together with the
completion exam ?
How many horses will be examined for B.C., for example if 40? 20? 6? horses
finished the ride ?
Is it difficult to determine the B.C.-winner ? Who will judge B.C., the vets
alone ? Is this strictly regulated, or not ?
What kind of judgement-criteria would you prefer ?
Are you happy with these rules, or is it possible to make something better ?
I think it would be very helpfull in our discussion to get some input from
experienced US-riders or ride managers. So thanks in advance for your
answers,
Frank