Cosequin Challenge: a different angle
Pete LaBerge (plaberge@epix.net)
Wed, 11 Dec 96 19:28:09 PST
Leaving the money issue aside, I've been trying to put some other pieces of this
intriguing puzzle together and could use some assistance. When Wayne McMinn
decided not to run his Punxatawney PA ride, traditionally on Memorial Day weekend, Mouse Mountain/Cosequin was able to get the date. The Old Dominion is usually two weeks after
that weekend. Both rides will be taking place in and around Fort Valley.
In over ten years of crewing for my wife and others at the Old Dominion, I have
been impressed with the effort of the OD staff to cultivate an excellent
relationship with the Fort Valley community and the Geo.Washington Nat. Forest Rangers.
>From hearing the rangers talk at the OD pre-ride to speaking with many valley residents
while waiting for a horse, I'm convinced they are succeeding at a difficult task.
With this in mind, I'm wondering if it is prudent to run two big rides within two
weeks of each other over the same terrain. Or is it the same terrain?
Here in PA, we have lost the use of some of our game lands because of overuse
and bad public relations. Has this issue been addressed by Cosequin Challenge
ride management or the VTC? Are they working with the Old Dominion with
respect to PR and trail preservation in Fort Valley and the Massanuttens?
At the OD, much emphasis is placed on limiting crew vehicles in the valley
to show consideration for local residents. I'm wondering how this will be addressed.
Pete LaBerge