Re: Hw vs Fw

[truman.prevatt@netsrq.com (Truman Prevatt)]

From a pure "system theory" view point the implication of requiring more
energy as a function of weight carried some interesting questions arise.  I
don't think anyone can argue that it requires more energy to carry
additional weight.  Just put on a 20 pound pack and carry it up a mountian
and then put on a 30 pound pack and carry it up a mountain.

This implies an endurance horse carring a HW will require more energy
reserves to get through a ride.  This implies a larger horse to be able to
carry the reserves.  This implies a higher heat load to dissipate from the
extra energy generated.  This results in greater electrolyte loss, etc.
There is a whole cascade of effects that result from this additional energy
requirement.

I do believe that speed is an issue and that on tougher rides - where speed
is held down by the conditions then HW riders have a better chance at top
10 and a better chance at BC.

Is 1/2 point per pound a good compensation for the weight carried.
Probably not and the true effect is probably not linear.  Namely a pound
over 200 probably has a different effect than a pound over 165.  But until
additional data are available tinkering doesn't make too much sense.

What does it mean?  Beats me, but if someone could come up with sufficient
funding I would be very happy to go take a look. (VBG>.

Truman




Truman Prevatt
Mystic "The Horse form Hell" Storm
Little Stormy - getting ready for her first ride in six years
The Rockman, a.k.a Misty Jr.
Jordy, a.k.a. Bridger - Finaly getting his shot

Sarasota, FL