AERC now offers a LD champion, the one that goes to the most, based on
miles, not finishing places. You could be last into camp and still get
that jewel as long as you come in under the time limit!
there is a lot going on for LD riders now that did not use to be there.
Here in the SE, there are many LD riders. Typically there are more in the
short distance than in the long distance, though some rides are not that
way. A lot of the LD riders are AERC members, though some are only
regional club members, and will join "soon".
We charge typically 35-45 dollars for entry into the Ld rides, and the
50's are about 55-70 dollars for that distance. Some rides charge only a
dollar per mile ridden, no matter what distance. It is usually less per
mile to ride the upper distance, but that will definately vary according
to which ride you go to.
Generally, the awards are about the same, maybe smaller, but usually the
same--t-shirts, buckets with goodies, etc. Some rides will award weight
divisions in the LD, many do not. SOme do a BC based on total of time,
weight, and vet scores, on top ten, or just top five, some award a BC on
vet scores only. Some do not award a BC period--Usually on the bigger
rides that have lots of other things to worry about.
We always have a criteria of 60 pulse to finish, and the horses have to be
down in 30 minutes or less. That is mandantory! they get the same
rigorous vet check that the upper distances do, and some vets are a little
bit harsher on the LD riders since many are new comers. Again, it depends
on the ride and the vet preferences.
there is some elevation that goes on here, and although I have never done
it, I have seen many do it and be glad, then go on to do 50s from there.
I have seen some realize that 50's are not for them!
I guess that's enough for now. As far as I know, all LD rides in the SE
are sanctioned by AERC. I don't think that I have ever been to a ride that
did not have a sanctioned LD ride. I have been going to rides very steady
since 1991. Usually averaging 16 or so per year. That's a lot for the SE.
I don't ride that many, but I do go and help some!!
samm