Being Judged, or Not

["Bryan & Laura & Mark" <mark@madbbs.com>]

I mostly lurk, as there are many knowledgeable people here, and most of you do not need my imput.  But I do have some thoughts on the NATRC/CTR/Endurance debate.  I will qualify it by saying that I have done 4000 AERC miles, about 1000 ECTRA miles, and last year when NATRC came to the NE, I rode it in Allegany State Park in NY (even though I do little distance riding any more- though ever hopeful about getting back...).

IMHO, there is much to be learned by everyone at some point.  I learned a few things at the NATRC ride despite having spent my life with horses (vet husband, I was a farrier...)  I will honestly tell you that I love a good race - getting from point A to point B with skill, care and speed.  The hotter, rockier, steeper, the better, and I do not always appreciate 'being judged', as if I was still in 4H...BUT, before you CTR riders want to flog me....I love going down the trail in any form, so I go to rides that are close that give me that opportunity.  Just give me the rules and I will play any game with a smile on my face.

I have won many endurance rides, and dated Brian Weaver in the '80s when he won the OD (100) twice and ROC. I have NEVER won a CTR and when my horse walked off on the mount at the NATRC ride, I laughed (Aren't we supposed to get going,mom???)  You can be sure I will not make that mistake this year.

I essentially do not like the subjective judging at CTRs, it will never hold a place in my heart like a good old fashioned race.  BUT, as I said, I love going down trail, so I will do them when convenient.  Neither sport is BETTER, but we are all different.  TO EACH HIS OWN.

Just my 2 cents,

Laura Hayes