And, you may be the one of the luckiest rookies out there.
When I started in this sport more than 20 years ago I was flabbergasted at
how helpful and nice people were.  I had been doing fox-hunnting,
hunter/jumper, dressage and was used to snobbery (though I disliked it).  I
couldn't believe people actually were willing to HELP me learn and do
better!!!  I remember my first 50 in 1976 after 4 years of CTR.  I will never
forget it.  I was so damn tired and sore and never so HIGH in my life.  I was
HOOKED!!!  Virtually EVERYBODY seemed to care and be delighted that I was
there!!
I was fortunate in having a good start.  I learned at CTR's how to care for
my horse. YEARS of lessons for HJ, Dressage made me a better rider,  then I
learned about endurance...YES it was a thrill, but YES it is risky.  I have
never really hurt or ruined a horse,  but I've come close and seen a lot.
 The biggest fault with endurance is DIMR (Distance Induced Mental
Retardation).  EVERYONE gets it sooner or later..the later the better.  ADD
MONEY and it comes sooner with MORE risk.
I do this for fun and education and for the personal rewards it brings.
Teddy
YES, BLESS VOLUNTEERS.
JU$T $AY NEIGH!