Re: RC: Re: Re: Instructions at ride meetings

["Nancy Mitts" <mitts_n@hotmail.com>]

But if the riders won't take the initiative to learn on their own, what 
makes you think they'll attend the extra meeting??? Does a RM have (or want) 
the authority to force them to attend?
I guess those of us in the Central Region are really spoiled, because I 
don't think I've ever been to a single ride anywhere in this region that 
doesn't ask if there are new riders, or anybody with questions.
I've never known a vet around here that wouldn't answer questions all day 
long (as time permitted).
And, according to the newest rulebook I have (AUg '95)

Rule 1.4.6 states: "Limited Distance competitors must be offered a separate 
and specific briefing on the special features and requirements of Limited 
Distance rides."

Granted, that won't help someone whose 1st ride is a 50. And I suppose 
people putting on a 24 mile ride so it wouldn't be considered LD probably 
wouldn't want to be bothered with a special meeting either.
But my point is help an education is generally available for anyone who 
asks. If someone doesn't ask, or ignores the information given, the RM's & 
vets really can't beat it into them.
Nancy Mitts
Central Region

>Good idea in theory but not all new riders will take that initiative...I
>also read and researched (thank God for the internet!) but many who don't
>understand distance riding will not because their horse has stamina and
>endurance and can go "all day long" down the trail.  We hear this all the
>time.... they have no idea what slow twitch muscles vs. fast twitch muscles
>has to do with anything, how to feed their horse, how they should be
>trimmed/shod, what a CRI is, etc.  Sounds like fun!!  Yeah, right!  Thank
>God for those of us who want to learn and keep learning and asking
>questions and putting what we learn into practice.  But for those who
>don't, I think there is a responsibility somewhere (Vets? Ride managers?
>AERC? Local clubs?) to provide some education somewhere in some format to
>avoid potential problems

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