Re: Pony Power, Little Big Horses? -- SAY WHAT? and LD

["Marci Cunningham" <mcunningham@calcot.com>]

Cincy Bell writes:
>That is certainly not the case in the SE region where LD rides are
definitely
>a race.  We have SERIOUS LD races down here and these riders have NO
>intention of ever doing an endurance ride.  Why should they, when they can
be
>done in 2 hours (or less) pay about 1/4 what the 100's pay for entries and
>get the same awards for RACING a 25 mile race as the 100's and 50's?  I am
>truly concerned about the future of our sport when new riders are
encouraged
>to race 25 miles rather than putting in the time and LSD miles that it
takes
>to make a successful endurance horse.
>

Out here in California LD rides are usually only $10 to $20 less than 50
mile endurance rides, with most 50 mile entry fees $70 to $90.  I have even
seen LD fees equal to 50 mile fees.  Perhaps ride managers in the SE are
missing the boat by not charging more to their LD riders.  I know that I
would have a hard time paying over $50 for a LD ride when I could ride twice
as far for only a few dollars more.  100 mile rides, other than Tevis, are
in the $125 to $150 range for entry fees.

Ride management is responsible for whatever message is sent to LD riders at
their ride.  This message is sent via entry fees, completion awards, placing
awards and Best Condition awards.  The pre-ride briefing is also the place
that ride management can express their views of what the purpose of the LD
ride is.

Happy Trails,
Marci Cunningham
Bakersfield CA


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