I'm old enough, and hopefully wise enough now, to not let disparaging
remarks about doing "half-a-ride" (Mathew McKay-Smith's term for the wimps
doing only a 50!), i.e. a 25, bother me.
After a broken back, extruded disk, broken shoulder and destroyed rotator
cuff do you think I'm really going to be gung-ho to do that kind of distance
anymore?
I want to have fun, have a little challenge for myself and my horse without
putting life or limb in danger, be with people who are truly
unique/entertaining/provocative/enjoyable, feel a sense of accomplishment
for a small victory over my own incapacities and whatever Mother Nature can
throw at me, on and on!
If I do a 25 mile endurance ride, or a limited distance CTR, it is because I
feel that is what is best for me and my horse. In my younger, healthier
days I did more, wanted to do more. Now I am content, and very proud, to
complete my rides (whatever the distance) with a sane and sound horse--and
not too many aches or pains for me (bouncing boobs excluded of course!).
Just remind people that the sport's motto is "To Finish is to Win". I'd
like to think that we "Limited Distance Specialists" do our job as well as
those who choose to specialize in longer distances.
I wish more ride managers would provide limited distance endurance in the
East. We will provide a 25/50 at Bucks County, PA in Sept. Join us!
Diane @ Safe Haven (Limited distance & proud of it)