Unidentified subject!
Nancy Mitts (MS-MITTS@VM.MSSC.EDU)
Thu, 12 Dec 96 11:47:21 CST
I couldn't resist one last peek at the archives before I left. This is
abolutly my last post till next semester.I really hate to leave at this time!
I must repeat by feelings about BC Awards (especially for money &placement).
The Vet score is SUBJECTIVE. Most vets are fair, But I heard one say that
Arabs are so superior for endurance that any other breed is wasting it's
time presenting to him for BC. Other vets prefer leggy "showy" arabs, some
the sturdy tanks.All other things being equal, their PERSONAL PREFERENCE
will win.Endurance is not a horse show. TIME FACTOR: there is 1 point
for every minute you're ahead of everybody else.This can add up &
encourages trying to win by the widest time margin, just crossing the line
first isn't enough if you want BC. Weight is only 1/2 point, but it does
add up. Again the lightestrider needs to ride faster to have equal chance
at BC.
Any horse deemed "fit to continue" is going to get some kind of vet
score. That is why some vets discourage some people for presenting.
The time & weight factor will allow horses to win BC dispite a low vet score.
For the record, I am against the IAHA Sweepstakes being run at regular AERC
rides. Since I'm not even on an Arab I'm competing for AERC Points at the same
ride where others are vying for $$$$Thousands. I would stay away from them
except they are sometimes linked to the Championship Series which I strongly
support.
Regarding the ROC, I rode it when it wasn't linked to the Sweepstakes. A lot
of the sponsored items were given to all who entered.Each regional "team" had
a sponsor who gave them more stuff.(That's where Racer got his lime&pink
outfit.) Even more goodies were distributed by drawing.I got a heart monitor,
Monte a pair of easyboots.Yes, there were larger awards to the winner, but
the ride has always been promoted as an event unto itself. There is a lot of
emphasis on just BEING THERE and finishing. I was next to last & still got the
full treatment--music, champagne, etc. I don't know if the atmosphere changed
with the addition of the sweepstakes or not, but the original atmosphere is
why it has been accepted, even if a large award went to the winner.
Sorry to hit & run.Till Jan 13. Nancy Mitts.