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This subject comes up routinely in the Northwest. Usually in the
context of whether it's endurance riding or endurance racing...
The simple answer is it's both. Under AERC rules one can either explore
optimum performance and use all the technology available, or just sit
back and enjoy the trail-- keeping in mind maximum completion times.
Back in the 70's when my horse completed his first 1,000 miles. It was
a BIG deal! I ran to the mailbox with the EHRA (Endurance Horse
Registry of America) paperwork to get a 1000 mile plaque. Nowdays, a
1,000 miles is common place. Times change, huh.
As to performance then and now, 30 years ago we used old calvery saddles
and fed the highest protein hay we could find. Sure we got through lots
of rides but never in our wildest dreams would we have considered doing
a 10 hour 100. (Mostly because the Tevis was our only 100 miler.) In
my view we've come a long, long way towards improving our sport and
exploring human and equine potential.
In any case, your questions probably fall into the catagory of politics
and religion in that there will always be lots of discussion but no
absolutely right answers. But its fun to talk about it...
Ramey
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