You wrote:
> Why do you put the numbers on the horse? In Denmark we put the number on the
> rider, just like on athletics-people; one on the chest and one on the back.
> Often these numbers are sponsored and carry a company name. And the
> endurance-department of the Danish riding society have a set of numbers which
> are used for many rides. (We rarely if ever have two rides on the
same date).
First of all, there are dozens of rides every weekend all across the
USA. (Admittedly, our country covers as much territory as much of
Europe.) Having a single set of numbers to lend out would not work
here :)
We generally ride in changing weather conditions. We are constantly
putting on or taking off jackets and other layers of clothing.
Wearing a number as you describe (called a Pinny here), is very
akward. On top of that, they can be quite irritating if the Pinny is
worn w/ straps over the shoulders - the straps keep shifting! One
size fits all usually means one size fits NOBODY!
What happens if you have a rider fall and the horse leaves? With a #
on the horse, he is easily identified for the searchers. (As if a
loose horse with endurance tack was not identifiable! Sometimes,
they loose the tack, though!)
Lastly, the markers to write on the horses are inexpensive and last a
long time.
I hope this answers your questions.
Linda Flemmer
ABF Challenger ("Rocket") & Eternal Point ("Major")
Blue Wolf Ranch
Chesapeake, VA
"In case of emergency - Fur side up, steel side down!"