Re: MECHANICAL FATIGUE

[Teddy Lancaster <Teddy@runningbear.com>]

Concerning "subjectivity":  While it may not be the intent of CTR's or ER's for that
matter, the judge/vet must cal it has he sees it.  As we all know, one person does not
see things the way another does.  I do not believe most judging is purposely
"subjective", but judgement calls must be used.  Judgement is opion, granted,
experienced or professional opinion, but definately opinion.

The ONLY objective judgement is one based on FACT.

Teddy

Barbara wrote:

> On Date: Tue, 12 May 1998 08:05:52 -0400 you wrote:
>
> >>>>John:
>
> Do not be discouraged. CTR's are judged subjectively.  What one vet sees
> another may not...the vet may be right or wrong, but your are paying and entry
> fee for his opinion.<<<<
>
> Teddy,
>
>         If the veterinarian judging on an (ECTRA) CTR is "subjective", then ALL
> veterinary judging (including AERC) is "subjective", too!
>
>         We all know vets that we try to avoid at vet check if we "know" the horse
> is OK, but there is an anomaly of some sort, yet we will RUN to the same
> vet if we think there's a real problem.
>
>         The term "subjective" implies "subject to personal interpretation" to me.
> At an endurance Ride there are usually several vets to concur or not on a
> judgement.
>
>         I have had differences of opinion with veterinarians with whom I've judged
> over the years.  The MOST important thing to consider is that MOST
> veterinarians have the horse's best interest foremost.
>
>         It is also difficult for a rider to be "objective" about his own horse.  I
> wish more riders would "work" rides -- acting as judge's secretary, etc.
> and look at the horses through the judge's eyes.
>
>   I think your advice:
>
> >>>>You will have to sit back and assess what happened and decide how best
> to improve matters yourself.<<<<<
>
>         is  a golden gem, whether the sport be CTR or ER, as is:
>
> >>>>So much depends on presentation. Experience will teach you the best way
> to present your horse to his best advantage.<<<<<
>
>         This is also true for Endurance.  Learning just how fast to jog your horse
> so that his vagaries of motion don't appear to be lameness, teaching him to
> trot upon command and with ears alert is important in all aspects of long
> distance.
>
>         Attention to riding skills and balance can help prevent "mechanical
> fatigue".  If the score sheets show similar comments ride after ride, it is
> not "subjectivity" of the vet that should be questioned.
>
> And:
>
>         >>>>>Good luck and give it years, not just a few rides.<<<<<
>
> SAYS IT ALL!!!
>
> Barbara