<< Life isn't fair...if you ride limited distance because
of family obligations, because your horse is only capable of completing that
distance or by choice you should be acknowleged for what you have
accomplished but you are NOT competing at the highest level in endurance.
Veyr true. But this is no excuse for slamming or otherwise demeaning those
riders at lower distances. The "more advanced " rider should be encouraging
those riders, not making disparaging remarks. By the way, my 11 year old
daughter did not appreciate being referred to as an excuse for not riding
more miles. Her response to my query was, "Mommy, I don't mind if you go ride
so you can have fun, but just don't forget about me!" ...from the mouths of
babes!
I would also like to mention that when a ride manager allows 50 milers
to vet in front of 25s it is usually because the 25 is being run as a
training ride and the 50 is being run as a race where time is a factor.
Unless you want ride managers to charge more for limited distance entries
so
25s can have their own vet I think that limited distance riders should allow
50s to vet first. If you are there only to condition what does it matter if
you are held up a few more minutes?
Also true, and I know that in these cases, we have NO problem stepping
back for a rider who is going on OR for a rider of ANY distance whose horse
appears to be indistress. BUT - what we DO resent is the occasional lack of
courtesy, when a 50 miler simply butts in front and says,"you're only going
25". Well, YES. Exhibit some good manners, and while you are at it, DON't
just barge in, putting your horse's heels right in front of my horse's nose.
Courtesy and respect is not too much too ask, no matter who a rider thinks he
or she is.
We had the real pleasure of having to do with the very kind and gentlemanly
Pete Davies at a number of rides, and I think he epitomizes what we hope to
see in any case - courtesy and genuine respect for everyone attending. What a
tremendous exampleof the attitude we like to see! He is one to emulate.
s
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