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For those of you who like to hear news from old Europe: Last week the
XX. Grastaeler-Passage took place. Its a very beautiful ride through a
nice landscape in the soouthwest of Germany, between Stuttgart and Ulm,
called the „Schwaebische Alb". This time the gras valleys were like
turf. Footing and weather were very good to ride. While winning time is
usually about 5 - 5 ½ hours, this year it was 4:30. Listen, there are
NO markings on the trail. You have to ride the trail with a map
(1:25.000). About 60 starters.
It was my THIRD attempt with my Ligeira (Fjord-Arabian mare, 14.3").
First: 1994: 5:40 (1st, but lameness at post-ride
exam).
Second: 1996: 7:09 (11th, but lameness at post-ride
exam).
Now: 1997: 4:38 (4th, Horse sound!)
My horse runs absolutely great. Top heart rates and recovery, especially
at the end parts of the ride. There were plenty of reserves. We finished
for place 4 against two top German riders and won, the horse was like
fresh from the pasture. I have to add, in relation to my horse (maybe
880 pds) , I’m a heavyweight rider - 180 pds!
WHAT HAS BEEN CHANGED ??
shoeing: plastic „marathon" nailshoes from a German Company.
Angle: 54° front, 56° back. Last year unshod, about 50 degrees or lower
in front (made some thoughts, bought a hoof gauge and read your books,
Tom!)
Feed: sweet feed mix with herb mineral supplement, some low dosage
electrolytes and GAGs
training: more intervalls, hills and Gallop work, some 30-mile-training
rides in 9 mph (fartleks, 2-3 mile gallops)
comepting: let her go at a moderate pace, what she prefer, Gallop (about
13 mph) at 130-155 pulse, NO more power-trotting
AND THAT’S ABOUT.
Do you can see the fine links to what we discussed last year around on
this list ?
It works. At least for me and my horse. I’m a trail rider since 1980
(more than half of my life), but I never learned so much since last
year.
Greetings to everyone on the list
especially Tom, Susan, Kat, Joe, Truman, Roger and Nicco -
Carry on ! I wish I would have more time to participate on your
discussions, but I’m lurking around.
PS: If you are interested in more info or complete result, please Email
me privately.
PS 2: Are there some more Germans on the list currently ?
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