Sometimes, even leaving early, things just take longer than expected. It happens.
I peeled out of work yesterday as close to 4 as I could. I stopped at Callahan's for my bale of hay and then hurried as fast as I could out to the barn. I did stop to get a drink (oh Sonic...you tempting minx!). And between that, the electrolyting, the grocery shopping and all the driving, I still didn't get home until 7:45. *sigh* Why is that?!!
Grabbed Strider out of the field (he of course, once again had to remind me he is !INDEPENDENT! and ran off a few feet, then came back as I was loving on my Socks). Decided I'd see how the Hoof Armor was on his feet. I led him down the center aisle/road at the barn. There's gravel and some rocks. Nothing really intense, but he always Always ALWAYS asks to get off the road and into the grass. Yesterday, he just walked calmly beside me down the road. That's a good sign. I even made him walk over the few patches where there's a few rocks, and he just walked over them, no big deal.
Turned him around and we gaited back to the pen.
So, whatever lameness we had at Racing Stripes is 100% resolved.
OH!! We -do- think now it was a stone bruise.
Holly came out and trimmed both horses for me on Tuesday afternoon, and she said many things.
Socks: "Socks heel was really bruised, lots of thrush with abscessing at back of frog. Looks to be healing now." Now, this is a horse who usually has amazingly tough feet. And I never really need to worry about them. She feels, as do I, if I'd left Strider in the pen, his feet would be trashed and potentially unsound.
Strider: "Strider had a bruise on his front in his left front that I trimmed out. Could've been his soreness issue. He ran all over after I trimmed him. Got his heels back as much as I could without putting his frog too close to the ground. Rolled his toe back."
So, I do so hope that explains what happened at Racing Stripes.
Tonight is the final push to pack.
Groceries were bought last night.
Tonight I load the camp tote, the cooler and non-perishables, the saddle, saddle stand and all that. Wash my saddle cover tonight and let it drip dry tonight. Pack my clothes and load that into the truck as well. Toss the water tank in the truck. Get the car seat in the truck and, that's pretty much the last of it. Grab the perishables tomorrow morning, run to the store and get ice, grab my horse (Socks will move on Sunday when I get home instead of Friday), stop and drop Kaylee off, and then boogie on up to Cleburn.
I'm still trying to quell my concerns. I go from "This is no big deal" to "This is a VERY big deal" and every extreme in the middle.
I have someone helping me out with boots. He has Hoof Armor on. If between those two things he comes in lame, it wasn't for a lack of trying on my part!! And just means next ride, I'll do glue-ons instead.
See you on the flipside!!!
Get out and get your ride on!!!
#TeamStrider
#PasoPower
Thursday, May 12, 2016
Wednesday, May 11, 2016
Countdown to Ride Camp...
Every day this week has a purpose to lead me to Saturday's ride.
Monday was preparing the trailer and cleaning up as much of my tack as I could. 3 cinches loaded and ready. My riding boots/shoes tossed into the washing machine and cleaned up. The 3 Renegade boots I have, cleaned up and tossed into the trailer along with the spare parts that comes with them. Another Renegade on order and on it's way for his rears. And a deal worked out with a friend to buy her 4 Renegades so I'll have plenty of spares in multiple colors for his 4 feet. AND someone at ride camp who is going to help me fit all of them.
Tuesday was spent scrambling after work. Raced home, grabbed the truck and trailer, grabbed Kaylee and hustled to the barn. Tossed Strider into the trailer (he'll follow you in now, no big deal...it STILL amazes me how far he's come in the past year) and hurried to Holly's. She and Douglas applied Hoof Armor to all 4 feet and then we stood around in the arena and let it dry for about an hour. Tossed him BACK in the trailer and then hurried him back to Rusty's. I THOUGHT I had my Enduramax electrolytes in the trailer (technically, I did, but I wasn't thinking [I had 2 ziplock baggies of white power {LOL e-lytes!} in my tack trunk for holds]). When all I could find was the cheap Dumore apple electrolyte power (just not enough for an endurance horse), I sacrificed some of my DynaSpark to a bucket and tossed a little bit of grain in there to make it easier for him to consume.
If you want to see a horse literally LICKING the bottom of a bucket, try DynaSpark. He NEVER does that. But he did last night. Electrolytes given in less than 5 minutes.
Hurried home and got there around 10.
Wednesday (today) will be a fast trip to the barn for the syringed Enduramax electrolytes. I'll probably also go ahead and stop by Callahan's to get the really NICE bale of hay (that will give me 2 bales) on my way to the barn. After electrolytes are done, it's off to WalMart to get groceries (got to make my shopping list!! ACK!). When I get home, put non-perishables into the cooler and load it AND my camp tote AND the 2nd bale of hay into the trailer. Also put my water tank into the truck. Try and pack my clothes if at all possible tonight (or at least make sure everything is washed).
Thursday (tomorrow) will be a fast trip to the barn for another dose of electrolytes and then straight home where I will (weather permitting!) load the saddle into the trailer. I will be washing my saddle cover Thursday evening as soon as I get home and it will then have a chance to drip dry all day Friday. It's a fast to toss onto the saddle sort of thing, so even if I need to get up a little early Saturday morning to get it onto the saddle, no big deal! Hopefully it won't be too humid, or else I guess my butt will be a little wet Saturday morning (evaporative effect?).
Friday will be load the pillows into the truck perishables into the coolers, stop and get ice and then get the horses and GO!!
I say horses, but I'll be loading Socks, only to stop in Hutto and leave him with Heather. I'll pick up Dakini on my way home Sunday.
The process of packing is MUCH easier when the trailer is at the house. Usually I'm throwing things into the truck, but this time, I can put them into the trailer and the truck won't be stuffed to the gills with things!!
Hey, it's the little things that make me happy. :)
Monday was preparing the trailer and cleaning up as much of my tack as I could. 3 cinches loaded and ready. My riding boots/shoes tossed into the washing machine and cleaned up. The 3 Renegade boots I have, cleaned up and tossed into the trailer along with the spare parts that comes with them. Another Renegade on order and on it's way for his rears. And a deal worked out with a friend to buy her 4 Renegades so I'll have plenty of spares in multiple colors for his 4 feet. AND someone at ride camp who is going to help me fit all of them.
Tuesday was spent scrambling after work. Raced home, grabbed the truck and trailer, grabbed Kaylee and hustled to the barn. Tossed Strider into the trailer (he'll follow you in now, no big deal...it STILL amazes me how far he's come in the past year) and hurried to Holly's. She and Douglas applied Hoof Armor to all 4 feet and then we stood around in the arena and let it dry for about an hour. Tossed him BACK in the trailer and then hurried him back to Rusty's. I THOUGHT I had my Enduramax electrolytes in the trailer (technically, I did, but I wasn't thinking [I had 2 ziplock baggies of white power {LOL e-lytes!} in my tack trunk for holds]). When all I could find was the cheap Dumore apple electrolyte power (just not enough for an endurance horse), I sacrificed some of my DynaSpark to a bucket and tossed a little bit of grain in there to make it easier for him to consume.
If you want to see a horse literally LICKING the bottom of a bucket, try DynaSpark. He NEVER does that. But he did last night. Electrolytes given in less than 5 minutes.
Hurried home and got there around 10.
Wednesday (today) will be a fast trip to the barn for the syringed Enduramax electrolytes. I'll probably also go ahead and stop by Callahan's to get the really NICE bale of hay (that will give me 2 bales) on my way to the barn. After electrolytes are done, it's off to WalMart to get groceries (got to make my shopping list!! ACK!). When I get home, put non-perishables into the cooler and load it AND my camp tote AND the 2nd bale of hay into the trailer. Also put my water tank into the truck. Try and pack my clothes if at all possible tonight (or at least make sure everything is washed).
Thursday (tomorrow) will be a fast trip to the barn for another dose of electrolytes and then straight home where I will (weather permitting!) load the saddle into the trailer. I will be washing my saddle cover Thursday evening as soon as I get home and it will then have a chance to drip dry all day Friday. It's a fast to toss onto the saddle sort of thing, so even if I need to get up a little early Saturday morning to get it onto the saddle, no big deal! Hopefully it won't be too humid, or else I guess my butt will be a little wet Saturday morning (evaporative effect?).
Friday will be load the pillows into the truck perishables into the coolers, stop and get ice and then get the horses and GO!!
I say horses, but I'll be loading Socks, only to stop in Hutto and leave him with Heather. I'll pick up Dakini on my way home Sunday.
The process of packing is MUCH easier when the trailer is at the house. Usually I'm throwing things into the truck, but this time, I can put them into the trailer and the truck won't be stuffed to the gills with things!!
Hey, it's the little things that make me happy. :)
Tuesday, May 10, 2016
Sunday "Fun" Day...
Have you ever had a ride that shakes you up so badly before an important ride that you start internally hyperventilating and going "OMG this ride is going to be a DISASTER based on this conditioning ride!!!"
Sunday was that ride. I had no warning it was going to be a pain in the ass ride when I got to the barn. That entire part went smoothly.
First, let me lay out my goals for the ride.
One ride after Racing Stripes and his odd "lameness" issue to make sure he's sound. To trial all 4 Renegade hoof boots on him. To trial my new helmet camera. To trial my new Easycare Stowaway pommel pack.
So, I sat in my car when I got there (was waiting on Heather to come out and join me). So, watched a quick video to re-familiarize myself with adjusting the cables on my Renegade strap-on hoof boots. Grabbed Strider out of the pen (after he ran around like a terror while I just stood there calmly loving on Socks..his jealousy always gets the best of him...I can't love on someone else without Strider wanting HIS lovings).
So, I get the rears on and adjusted. The first time, they looked too lose, so pulled and re-adjusted the cables,no big deal and got them on his feet and took photos. That dragon fire red looks AWESOME on him!!
Slapped his fronts on him, assuming that they SHOULD be fine. I'd had them fit to him 2-weeks post-trim at one point, and we'd rasped him down some about a week ago.
Tack him up, everything looks great, so I'm like "Let's see you move in all 4 in the round pen."
For the first time in the 10 years I've owned and known this horse, he hunched his back under saddle and bucked in the round pen. Not constant "I'm gonna buck this saddle off me" sort of bucking, but either "My feet feel weird!!!" or "I'm so full of energy that I'm gonna buck out of sheer joy!!"
I never quite figured out which.
Worked him both directions and eventually had him come "pick me up" (swing his butt towards me while I stand on something [this time it was the rails of the round pen] so I can mount). Got my foot in the stirrup and we walked a bit. Then asked for a gait. More bucking. And not his "bunny bucks" but certainly not a "I'm going to buck to dislodge my rider" either. Still don't know what it's all about, but again we worked both directions.
He never feels out of control, so I'm like "Okay, cool, let's go with it."
Leave the round pen and we head out to go ride.
And so we go, with occasional bucks thrown in. Weirdo. Okay then. Not a fan of all 4 booted. Noted, but, suck it up buttercup!!
So, we ride for a little while, things seem to be going okay, and we come down a hill, and I feel an odd step, and the sound changes.
"Heather, do I still have all 4 on?"
"No. You've lost both fronts, but both rears are on!!"
"Shit."
I find one, and we spend time hunting for the other one, but figure it went flying off into the grass. And it'd be next to impossible to find a black boot. Great.
I was NOT happy. But we said we'd double back on our trail we covered in case it came off earlier and we'll find it then, no big deal. I'm still annoyed because these damn things aren't cheap. But I think I had the toe strap too tight. Okay then. The rears are still on, so that's AWESOME!!! I have those adjusted properly.
So we ride and we ride. Things are going great. Boots are still on, horse is happy because he's "naked" on the front. We ride and ride.
We go through a puddle, Strider in the lead. He noses it, so I think he wants a drink. But, no...he didn't want a drink.
Down he goes into the water. Patented Strider move and why I don't ever allow him to just hang out in water. Mud, muck, filth all over me and down into my boot. He just lays there looking up at me like "Ohhhh yeah. That's the ticket. Hey mom. Why such an angry face?"
I get him up while Heather's laughing her ass off and get back on (after scraping MOST of the mud off my ass and leg). We continue to lead, looping round and round and making the horses cross through the water as we come to it.
And then it happens. BIG water puddle. Point Strider at it. Two red boots go in, only one red boot comes out.
Heather spotted one in the mud as we exited. I am already soaked, so I wade in to try and find it, and Strider follows. To lay down AGAIN as I'm checking the puddle/mud. Talk about kicking me while I'm down. Thanks bud!!! Jerkface.
Get him up, AGAIN, and I keep looking in sheer frustration, but forget it. I can't find it. Heather says let's keep riding, we'll come back with a rake and drag the bottom for it.
So we ride as I'm interally swearing "Great! TWO damn boots GONE!! ARGH!!!"
We stop for a bit, let the horses graze and I realize I need to get Strider to take the DynaSpark from my hand, so I put some in my hand and he is confused for a moment until I put his muzzle IN to the palm of my hand and he starts to lick. Lightbulb moment when he realizes that I've got the equine crack in my hand! I offer some to Heather's mare, and she is also confused until she realizes it's tasty and starts to lick it. Strider realizes what I'm doing and starts knocking her out of the way to get it out of my hands. Greedy turd!!! I give him a few carrots, offer Blondie (Heather's mare) a carrot, and she tries to eat it, but it's hard with a bit in!!
We just lounge there, letting them relax and graze. I suggest we double back and hunt for my other missing front boot. Which we DID find!! YAY!!!
We ride a little bit more, then head back to the barn to grab her truck and go rake the mud puddle for my missing BRIGHT RED boot.
Load up into Heather's truck, she puts it into 4wheel drive and away we go, bouncing through pastures and trails to get as close as we can to the puddle.
We spent an HOUR IN that water hunting. I raked it. Heather, however, is a trooper. Let me tell you world, there's not a better woman on this planet than Heather. She took off her shoes and socks and got into that nasty muck BAREFOOT and shoved her hands INTO the mud where she thought the horses went, looking for hoof holes. REPEATEDLY she did this. Up and down the entire length of the puddle. Hunting. She finally got me to take my shoes off (seriously world, I don't mind many things, but being barefoot in squishy mud oobs me out. I find it repulsive and it's giving me the willies just thinking about it all over again) and dig in the mud with my toes too.
After and hour of raking and hunting and fishing in this foul smelling water, we turned up....nothing.
No boot. We probably jammed it down further into the mud. And as we were mucking around in there, 3 different riders came by and asked what we were doing.
In hindsight, NOW, it's humorous. At the time, it was frustrating and irritating and disheartening.
And it's shaken me so badly that I'm concerned about this ride this weekend.
The ride flyer recommends shoes or boots. But, apparently someone did the 50 and WON on a barefoot horse.
The current plans as they stand:
I'm taking Strider to Holly's place tonight to have her apply Hoof Armor. I spoke with a woman yesterday with some impressive photos of her horse doing Cougar Rock (on the Tevis Cup ride) barefoot and ONLY using Hoof Armor. And Holly and I had talked about it before, but not knowing any endurance horses using it (at that time), we skipped over it while discussing other ideas.
I will be carrying my strap-on Renegades, or putting them on before we ride out. Apparently the rock is really only at mile 8 on the first and third loop. So, for loops two and four, we'll ride bare with the Hoof Armor. Or, if it looks like it's getting rocky, I'll dismount and throw the boots on.
I also need to remember to charge and take my mp3 player. I might end up separating from the group I'm planning on riding with due to boot issues, etc. I refuse to hold anyone up, though I prefer to ride with people, I will remember I MUST ride my own ride. Yes, my horse PREFERS to ride in a group, but he's gotten better about riding out solo. And he'll be fine leaving camp since Socks isn't coming.
I'm going to be picking up some more spare Renegades from my friend Julia at the ride. 2 more for his fronts and 2 more for his rears.
Let me say this. Black Renegades on a BLACK horse are a BAD idea. The black boots will become my backup boots. The colors I'm getting from Julia are orange and maroon; colors that will be VISIBLE on my horse!!
I will also be putting my phone number in/on my boots so if they come off, someone can call me and return my boots to me. I thought about that on Sunday before we rode out, but I didn't have a black Sharpie, so I didn't do it. Now I regret it.
But, there's a lady at Rusty's who says she rides out there daily, so she'll keep an eye out for it and tell Marty (the "Jack of all trades" who lives at Rusty's and maintains the trails) about it as well. I've offered a $50 reward for its return. Which is less than the cost of the NEW boot I had to order on Monday.
Suffice to say, after this weekend, I'll have PLENTY of Renegades for Strider's feet. And I'll start riding in them more often just to get him used to them and to figure out the magic of them. Especially as there's a group ride coming up that I'd like to go to at McKinney Roughs, but everyone wants to go from the really rocky trail head, and Strider HAS to have boots to go on that side.
Last night I got some prep work done. I hosed off the saddle pad that Strider got filthy and muddy (I need to just buy Heather a new one). I hosed off the cinch that got covered in mud.
Hosed off my shoes that were smelly and then tossed them into the washing machine to get them clean.
Soaked the ONE red Renegade in water to loosen the mud then hosed the rest of it off.
Had Joe hang all 4 of my bucket brackets on the sides of my trailer.
Cleaned out and re-organized my tack room.
Talked to Joe about getting an awning for my trailer and potentially a small A/C for it. It just felt GOOD to get all of those things done before I leave. Usually I'm throwing things into the bed of the truck at the last minute and then tossing them into the trailer before I pull out, but my plan is to bring the trailer back home tonight and get my camp tote loaded into it, and other things in there before Friday.
Still to do:
Wash sheepskin saddle cover (waiting on the special soap to come in. Will be in Thursday, so will wash and drip dry cover Thursday night and Friday while in transport in trailer. Will bring brush to fluff the nap up and make it fluffy again)
Get 1 more bale of hay (swing by Callahan's who has the NICEST green square bales for $12.50)
Load water tank into bed of truck
Pack clothes
Go grocery shopping
Load cooler
I'm actually AHEAD of the game this time. Having the trailer at home REALLY helps get me ready and lets me load things directly in to it.
I wish I had a trailer cover for it so I could just leave things IN it while it's stored at the barn (saddles, tack, etc), but...nope!!!
I'm going to relax as best as I can and go with the flow. He'll either do or do not. I'm now getting a little concerned with the heat (oh my GOSH it's humid outside!), but he's chugged along just fine for LDs. I've got the "weed sprayers" that I bought at Tractor Supply Company that I'm going to fill with a water/alcohol solution to help cool him off at holds and vet checks. I will probably fill a bottle or two with the same solution for going down the trail to help keep him cool. And just do what I can do.
Honestly, he's had almost an entire month to recuperate after 75 miles. He was just fine at Racing Stripes and he was quite strong for me on Sunday (obviously, if he felt good enough to buck, he has juice in the tank). He's got a thin layer of fat to burn at the ride, so he has some reserves.
Hoof Armor. Renegades. Determined rider.
Hes gots this.
Sunday was that ride. I had no warning it was going to be a pain in the ass ride when I got to the barn. That entire part went smoothly.
First, let me lay out my goals for the ride.
One ride after Racing Stripes and his odd "lameness" issue to make sure he's sound. To trial all 4 Renegade hoof boots on him. To trial my new helmet camera. To trial my new Easycare Stowaway pommel pack.
So, I sat in my car when I got there (was waiting on Heather to come out and join me). So, watched a quick video to re-familiarize myself with adjusting the cables on my Renegade strap-on hoof boots. Grabbed Strider out of the pen (after he ran around like a terror while I just stood there calmly loving on Socks..his jealousy always gets the best of him...I can't love on someone else without Strider wanting HIS lovings).
So, I get the rears on and adjusted. The first time, they looked too lose, so pulled and re-adjusted the cables,no big deal and got them on his feet and took photos. That dragon fire red looks AWESOME on him!!
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| Left Rear |
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| Left Rear Profile |
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| Left Rear Profile |
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| Left Rear Rear |
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| Right Rear Front |
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| Right Rear Profile |
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| Right Rear Profile |
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| Right Rear Rear |
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| Hard to see, but all 4 booted! |
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| I don't LIKE this mom!!! |
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| Pissy Pony is Pissy |
Tack him up, everything looks great, so I'm like "Let's see you move in all 4 in the round pen."
For the first time in the 10 years I've owned and known this horse, he hunched his back under saddle and bucked in the round pen. Not constant "I'm gonna buck this saddle off me" sort of bucking, but either "My feet feel weird!!!" or "I'm so full of energy that I'm gonna buck out of sheer joy!!"
I never quite figured out which.
Worked him both directions and eventually had him come "pick me up" (swing his butt towards me while I stand on something [this time it was the rails of the round pen] so I can mount). Got my foot in the stirrup and we walked a bit. Then asked for a gait. More bucking. And not his "bunny bucks" but certainly not a "I'm going to buck to dislodge my rider" either. Still don't know what it's all about, but again we worked both directions.
He never feels out of control, so I'm like "Okay, cool, let's go with it."
Leave the round pen and we head out to go ride.
And so we go, with occasional bucks thrown in. Weirdo. Okay then. Not a fan of all 4 booted. Noted, but, suck it up buttercup!!
So, we ride for a little while, things seem to be going okay, and we come down a hill, and I feel an odd step, and the sound changes.
"Heather, do I still have all 4 on?"
"No. You've lost both fronts, but both rears are on!!"
"Shit."
I find one, and we spend time hunting for the other one, but figure it went flying off into the grass. And it'd be next to impossible to find a black boot. Great.
I was NOT happy. But we said we'd double back on our trail we covered in case it came off earlier and we'll find it then, no big deal. I'm still annoyed because these damn things aren't cheap. But I think I had the toe strap too tight. Okay then. The rears are still on, so that's AWESOME!!! I have those adjusted properly.
So we ride and we ride. Things are going great. Boots are still on, horse is happy because he's "naked" on the front. We ride and ride.
We go through a puddle, Strider in the lead. He noses it, so I think he wants a drink. But, no...he didn't want a drink.
Down he goes into the water. Patented Strider move and why I don't ever allow him to just hang out in water. Mud, muck, filth all over me and down into my boot. He just lays there looking up at me like "Ohhhh yeah. That's the ticket. Hey mom. Why such an angry face?"
I get him up while Heather's laughing her ass off and get back on (after scraping MOST of the mud off my ass and leg). We continue to lead, looping round and round and making the horses cross through the water as we come to it.
And then it happens. BIG water puddle. Point Strider at it. Two red boots go in, only one red boot comes out.
Heather spotted one in the mud as we exited. I am already soaked, so I wade in to try and find it, and Strider follows. To lay down AGAIN as I'm checking the puddle/mud. Talk about kicking me while I'm down. Thanks bud!!! Jerkface.
Get him up, AGAIN, and I keep looking in sheer frustration, but forget it. I can't find it. Heather says let's keep riding, we'll come back with a rake and drag the bottom for it.
So we ride as I'm interally swearing "Great! TWO damn boots GONE!! ARGH!!!"
We stop for a bit, let the horses graze and I realize I need to get Strider to take the DynaSpark from my hand, so I put some in my hand and he is confused for a moment until I put his muzzle IN to the palm of my hand and he starts to lick. Lightbulb moment when he realizes that I've got the equine crack in my hand! I offer some to Heather's mare, and she is also confused until she realizes it's tasty and starts to lick it. Strider realizes what I'm doing and starts knocking her out of the way to get it out of my hands. Greedy turd!!! I give him a few carrots, offer Blondie (Heather's mare) a carrot, and she tries to eat it, but it's hard with a bit in!!
We just lounge there, letting them relax and graze. I suggest we double back and hunt for my other missing front boot. Which we DID find!! YAY!!!
We ride a little bit more, then head back to the barn to grab her truck and go rake the mud puddle for my missing BRIGHT RED boot.
Load up into Heather's truck, she puts it into 4wheel drive and away we go, bouncing through pastures and trails to get as close as we can to the puddle.
We spent an HOUR IN that water hunting. I raked it. Heather, however, is a trooper. Let me tell you world, there's not a better woman on this planet than Heather. She took off her shoes and socks and got into that nasty muck BAREFOOT and shoved her hands INTO the mud where she thought the horses went, looking for hoof holes. REPEATEDLY she did this. Up and down the entire length of the puddle. Hunting. She finally got me to take my shoes off (seriously world, I don't mind many things, but being barefoot in squishy mud oobs me out. I find it repulsive and it's giving me the willies just thinking about it all over again) and dig in the mud with my toes too.
After and hour of raking and hunting and fishing in this foul smelling water, we turned up....nothing.
No boot. We probably jammed it down further into the mud. And as we were mucking around in there, 3 different riders came by and asked what we were doing.
In hindsight, NOW, it's humorous. At the time, it was frustrating and irritating and disheartening.
And it's shaken me so badly that I'm concerned about this ride this weekend.
The ride flyer recommends shoes or boots. But, apparently someone did the 50 and WON on a barefoot horse.
The current plans as they stand:
I'm taking Strider to Holly's place tonight to have her apply Hoof Armor. I spoke with a woman yesterday with some impressive photos of her horse doing Cougar Rock (on the Tevis Cup ride) barefoot and ONLY using Hoof Armor. And Holly and I had talked about it before, but not knowing any endurance horses using it (at that time), we skipped over it while discussing other ideas.
I will be carrying my strap-on Renegades, or putting them on before we ride out. Apparently the rock is really only at mile 8 on the first and third loop. So, for loops two and four, we'll ride bare with the Hoof Armor. Or, if it looks like it's getting rocky, I'll dismount and throw the boots on.
I also need to remember to charge and take my mp3 player. I might end up separating from the group I'm planning on riding with due to boot issues, etc. I refuse to hold anyone up, though I prefer to ride with people, I will remember I MUST ride my own ride. Yes, my horse PREFERS to ride in a group, but he's gotten better about riding out solo. And he'll be fine leaving camp since Socks isn't coming.
I'm going to be picking up some more spare Renegades from my friend Julia at the ride. 2 more for his fronts and 2 more for his rears.
Let me say this. Black Renegades on a BLACK horse are a BAD idea. The black boots will become my backup boots. The colors I'm getting from Julia are orange and maroon; colors that will be VISIBLE on my horse!!
I will also be putting my phone number in/on my boots so if they come off, someone can call me and return my boots to me. I thought about that on Sunday before we rode out, but I didn't have a black Sharpie, so I didn't do it. Now I regret it.
But, there's a lady at Rusty's who says she rides out there daily, so she'll keep an eye out for it and tell Marty (the "Jack of all trades" who lives at Rusty's and maintains the trails) about it as well. I've offered a $50 reward for its return. Which is less than the cost of the NEW boot I had to order on Monday.
Suffice to say, after this weekend, I'll have PLENTY of Renegades for Strider's feet. And I'll start riding in them more often just to get him used to them and to figure out the magic of them. Especially as there's a group ride coming up that I'd like to go to at McKinney Roughs, but everyone wants to go from the really rocky trail head, and Strider HAS to have boots to go on that side.
Last night I got some prep work done. I hosed off the saddle pad that Strider got filthy and muddy (I need to just buy Heather a new one). I hosed off the cinch that got covered in mud.
Hosed off my shoes that were smelly and then tossed them into the washing machine to get them clean.
Soaked the ONE red Renegade in water to loosen the mud then hosed the rest of it off.
Had Joe hang all 4 of my bucket brackets on the sides of my trailer.
Cleaned out and re-organized my tack room.
Talked to Joe about getting an awning for my trailer and potentially a small A/C for it. It just felt GOOD to get all of those things done before I leave. Usually I'm throwing things into the bed of the truck at the last minute and then tossing them into the trailer before I pull out, but my plan is to bring the trailer back home tonight and get my camp tote loaded into it, and other things in there before Friday.
Still to do:
Wash sheepskin saddle cover (waiting on the special soap to come in. Will be in Thursday, so will wash and drip dry cover Thursday night and Friday while in transport in trailer. Will bring brush to fluff the nap up and make it fluffy again)
Get 1 more bale of hay (swing by Callahan's who has the NICEST green square bales for $12.50)
Load water tank into bed of truck
Pack clothes
Go grocery shopping
Load cooler
I'm actually AHEAD of the game this time. Having the trailer at home REALLY helps get me ready and lets me load things directly in to it.
I wish I had a trailer cover for it so I could just leave things IN it while it's stored at the barn (saddles, tack, etc), but...nope!!!
I'm going to relax as best as I can and go with the flow. He'll either do or do not. I'm now getting a little concerned with the heat (oh my GOSH it's humid outside!), but he's chugged along just fine for LDs. I've got the "weed sprayers" that I bought at Tractor Supply Company that I'm going to fill with a water/alcohol solution to help cool him off at holds and vet checks. I will probably fill a bottle or two with the same solution for going down the trail to help keep him cool. And just do what I can do.
Honestly, he's had almost an entire month to recuperate after 75 miles. He was just fine at Racing Stripes and he was quite strong for me on Sunday (obviously, if he felt good enough to buck, he has juice in the tank). He's got a thin layer of fat to burn at the ride, so he has some reserves.
Hoof Armor. Renegades. Determined rider.
Hes gots this.
Friday, May 06, 2016
Friday ramblings...
So, as I was laying down last night, I realized that there's only a week left before I'll be in ride camp for the last time this spring season.
ONE WEEK?!!! Where did the time go to?
I'm a little concerned because my horse has basically been in "lay off" mode for about a month now. We'll get in a leg stretcher this weekend, I'll attempt to knock out 15 miles on Sunday, while trialing all 4 Renegades and my new knock-off GoPro camera. So, this should be interesting.
I will say though, my horse looks AMAZING after 3 weeks on stall rest, 2 square meals a day, constant grooming and attention.
So, I've got the learning curve for the Renegades (I'm going to re-review the videos I've watched about adjusting the cables). The learning curve for the little camera (not exactly a high priority, but wouldn't it be nice to have it working for Last Hoorah!?). And then making sure my tack is still a go.
And then beginning my electrolyte regimine. That starts up next week. Though I'll get it rolling on Sunday. Might as well, right?
Saturday in the afternoon I'll bring Strider home again. And then hope he stays away from anything that could wound him over the next 7 days until I toss him into the trailer.
Thinking we might do some hill sets on the small hills at Rusty's. Mostly I just miss RIDING. It's been a while.
And then I need to somehow squeeze in the time to see my mom on Sunday. I believe the current plan is to go with Joe on Sunday when he works his police officer gig, drop him off for work, then drive to Jarrell to visit mom and dad until he gets off shift.
Saturday I also need to tell Rusty I'm moving out. It's less than a 2 week notice, but I don't really care at this point. I can give him 2 weeks then, just, my pen will be empty for an entire week. It's fine with me. I'm ready to go somewhere different where Strider has some more room to move around and live in a more natural environment. And to send Socks to go live with Heather. That'll be nice!
Last night was spent watering the plants and then measuring out where our pool is going to go. I convinced Joe to get the 18' pool that's really only about 4' deep. It will consume most of our backyard. I am okay with this. Less to mow, more to swim. Win/Win to me!!
Perhaps on Saturday I can run to the store, get a small weed barrier mat and get my gardenia planted. That'll be awesome!
Our peaches seem to be getting sweeter and sweeter off our one, sad little tree. The jalapeno plant put off 1 jalapeno that Joe ate last night. It was supposed to be mild, he said it was rather hot. I also pulled a leaf of oregano off and ate it last night. It's the "hot and spicy" variety and it has a rather pleasant kick to it. Looking forward to putting that in some foods.
ONE WEEK?!!! Where did the time go to?
I'm a little concerned because my horse has basically been in "lay off" mode for about a month now. We'll get in a leg stretcher this weekend, I'll attempt to knock out 15 miles on Sunday, while trialing all 4 Renegades and my new knock-off GoPro camera. So, this should be interesting.
I will say though, my horse looks AMAZING after 3 weeks on stall rest, 2 square meals a day, constant grooming and attention.
So, I've got the learning curve for the Renegades (I'm going to re-review the videos I've watched about adjusting the cables). The learning curve for the little camera (not exactly a high priority, but wouldn't it be nice to have it working for Last Hoorah!?). And then making sure my tack is still a go.
And then beginning my electrolyte regimine. That starts up next week. Though I'll get it rolling on Sunday. Might as well, right?
Saturday in the afternoon I'll bring Strider home again. And then hope he stays away from anything that could wound him over the next 7 days until I toss him into the trailer.
Thinking we might do some hill sets on the small hills at Rusty's. Mostly I just miss RIDING. It's been a while.
And then I need to somehow squeeze in the time to see my mom on Sunday. I believe the current plan is to go with Joe on Sunday when he works his police officer gig, drop him off for work, then drive to Jarrell to visit mom and dad until he gets off shift.
Saturday I also need to tell Rusty I'm moving out. It's less than a 2 week notice, but I don't really care at this point. I can give him 2 weeks then, just, my pen will be empty for an entire week. It's fine with me. I'm ready to go somewhere different where Strider has some more room to move around and live in a more natural environment. And to send Socks to go live with Heather. That'll be nice!
Last night was spent watering the plants and then measuring out where our pool is going to go. I convinced Joe to get the 18' pool that's really only about 4' deep. It will consume most of our backyard. I am okay with this. Less to mow, more to swim. Win/Win to me!!
Perhaps on Saturday I can run to the store, get a small weed barrier mat and get my gardenia planted. That'll be awesome!
Our peaches seem to be getting sweeter and sweeter off our one, sad little tree. The jalapeno plant put off 1 jalapeno that Joe ate last night. It was supposed to be mild, he said it was rather hot. I also pulled a leaf of oregano off and ate it last night. It's the "hot and spicy" variety and it has a rather pleasant kick to it. Looking forward to putting that in some foods.
Thursday, May 05, 2016
Ch-ch-ch-changes!!
So, yesterday I went to drop hay off for Strider with Holly and, as always, it's such a joy to just relax with another, and far more knowledgeable horsewoman, and soak up the knowledge she has. And, of course, to just be around the horses feels magnificent. It is something I am looking forward to in the next 4 or 5 years myself. We made arrangements for me to come pick him up on Saturday and take him back to where I board as the weather should be dry enough that he'll be safe for the next week before our final spring ride.
My Renegades are now in the mail and on their way to me. Hoping they're in hand tomorrow evening...Saturday afternoon at the latest.
While at the barn talking to Holly, I finally broached the topic that I've been weighing for about a month; letting Socks stay with a friend for her daughter to ride, while I take her Paso Fino mare to play with. This isn't permanent (well, in so far as her keeping Socks. If I like the mare, whenever we finally move, I might just buy her, depending on how well Joe likes her), but I think it will be good for Socks, good for Strider, and good for this mare. I've always wondered if Strider was easy to train because I had him from when he was weaned, or if it's because, as a whole, the breed is just highly intelligent.
The mare does have 30 days of professional training, so it's not like she's completely ignorant, it'll just be something different for me to do while Strider gets to relax for the summer and go on pleasure rides and such.
And, I think if Joe really does want to try and do some Limited Distance rides, he'll need a smoother ride than Socks.
Doesn't hurt she's a nicely bred mare and rather pretty to look at to boot.
And I do so enjoy doing groundwork with horses. Makes me irritated that I left all the Clinton Anderson DVDs behind in Kansas, but what can you do?
If you're me; go buy them off eBay used. :)
Because, that's what I did!!
My Renegades are now in the mail and on their way to me. Hoping they're in hand tomorrow evening...Saturday afternoon at the latest.
While at the barn talking to Holly, I finally broached the topic that I've been weighing for about a month; letting Socks stay with a friend for her daughter to ride, while I take her Paso Fino mare to play with. This isn't permanent (well, in so far as her keeping Socks. If I like the mare, whenever we finally move, I might just buy her, depending on how well Joe likes her), but I think it will be good for Socks, good for Strider, and good for this mare. I've always wondered if Strider was easy to train because I had him from when he was weaned, or if it's because, as a whole, the breed is just highly intelligent.
The mare does have 30 days of professional training, so it's not like she's completely ignorant, it'll just be something different for me to do while Strider gets to relax for the summer and go on pleasure rides and such.
And, I think if Joe really does want to try and do some Limited Distance rides, he'll need a smoother ride than Socks.
Doesn't hurt she's a nicely bred mare and rather pretty to look at to boot.
And I do so enjoy doing groundwork with horses. Makes me irritated that I left all the Clinton Anderson DVDs behind in Kansas, but what can you do?
If you're me; go buy them off eBay used. :)
Because, that's what I did!!
Wednesday, May 04, 2016
Where I'm at...
I am simply the worst at updating. Rather, I'm the worst at completing half-written posts.
Every single ride I've done has the beginning write-up, just not everything else.
Basic run down for us so far?
2015 Ride Season
Shanghai Trails: LD (25 miles) on Strider
32nd place in 4:38 (out of 37 completions)
Spirit of Texas: LD (25 miles) on Strider
33rd place in 5:10 (out of 33 completions) - Turtle award winner!
Off Road Warrior: LD (25 miles) on Strider
Over Time
Armadillo: LD (30 miles) on Socks
47th place in 6:57 (out of 47 completions)
**NOTE: My vet card says over time and slight lameness. I attempted to correct this, but suspect that the error happened due to my leaving that night and asking for my vet card.**
2016 Ride Season
River Run at Los Caminos Naturales: 50 miles on Strider
23rd place in 8:09 (out of 24 completions) - tied for Turtle award winner!
High Roller I: LD (25 miles) on Strider
30th place in 3:48 (out of 65 completions)
LD (25 miles) on Strider (Josh up)
31st place in 3:48 (out of 65 completions)
High Roller II: LD (25 miles) on Strider
37th place in 4:45 (out of 37 completions)
Racing Stripes: 50 miles on Strider
40th place in 8:59 (out of 42 completions)
Racing Stripes: LD (25 miles) on Strider
Pulled Lame at mile 25
LD (25 miles) on Socks (Korinne up)
19th place in 4:55 (out of 19 completions) - Turtle award winner!
Total mileage:
Strider - Limited Distance: 100 miles
- Endurance: 100 miles
Socks - Limited Distance: 80 miles
Currently Strider is ranked #4 with the Paso Fino Horse Association with 130 points in Endurance.
Let me say what an amazing journey this has been with both of my horses. To have taken a horse that really wasn't legged up to his first ride and to carefully manage him through it, while knowing NOTHING myself, just fumbling through and telling anyone when I was in camp "This is my first time!!!" to hauling to ride camp myself, setting up, having prepared my horse for the weeks leading up, doing my electrolyte protocols leading up to camp, knowing what needs to be done and getting it done, and then getting out on trail....it's a wonderful feeling.
To meeting people and riding out with them on trail, setting up a ride plan and then sticking to it...it's a wonderful feeling!!
To going to the out-timer, calling out your number and being told "Someone else gave me your number, but I knew it wasn't you Erin!" was honestly...it was a good feeling. If someone who only sees me a few times at each ride, but knew, at least in passing, who I was...it felt like I am maybe...MAYBE...starting to be a part of the bigger picture.
Not that I wasn't at my first ride. That Lynne was so sweet and kind to me, a complete stranger, who hauled me and my horse, shared her knowledge and coached me through...it was a wonderful feeling.
And at each ride, I meet new people, and make new friends who I only see at ride camp, and potentially interact with online.
But most of all, watching Strider really bloom and grow as a horse. He's turned in to a solid partner. With quirks. But I know he'll cross water. Cross bridges. Cattle don't bother him. New places delight him. And he will work his butt off for me if I ask. He's become a fun casual trail horse and a pleasure to take to ride camp. Mostly. Unless Socks is there and Socks is at the trailer. Then he's an asshole. And I kinda hate him.
But he's gone from this fat, overweight horse, to a lean and trimmed down horse. He's not a fire-breathing dragon at the start of a ride. He has energy, but he's not uncontrollable. For which I am thankful.
I've learned that 50 miles isn't really as hard as I first thought. My first 50 was shorter, time-wise, than my second 50, but I hurt less after my second 50. And I've realized that, for now...we're moving up the distance. Unless something dictates we drop back to LDs, we're staying at 50s. He's starting to understand the game better. So am I. My current plan, as it stands, is to stay at 50s for a year or two. Then bump to try a 75.
The fact is I know Strider has it in him to manage 75 miles. He, in fact, DID do 75 miles the weekend of Racing Stripes. He did ALL 75 miles, only to come up lame at the final vet check. He found a rock with his name on it, or just the hard percussion of gaiting on a hard-pack road did it to him. I will admit I was upset to begin with. For my valiant pony to have done it ALL and not earn his completion felt bitterly unfair. Except, that's the name of the game. Shit happens out there. And it's not like he didn't actually DO the mileage, he just wasn't fit to continue.
So after I calmed down a bit, I realized that. I couldn't have done anything differently, nor could he. It happens to everyone at some point. This was his. So we learned something. I learned he has 75 miles in him. If we can just avoid the rocks or hard roads.
So next weekend, we're off to try another 50. Just Strider and I. We're going to pair up with the team we did the 50 at Racing Stripes with and a friend of hers. I'm expecting good things!! I'm dialing in my tack and right now the saddle and pad I'm borrowing are working well. I'm going to try some new electrolytes out on the trail along with some carrots (natural e-lytes!) to keep him peppy and going strong. Waiting on the rear Renegades I ordered to come in. I do so hope they'll be here before this weekend. I wanted to try a good, long ride in them to make sure they'll stay on and work for us next weekend.
So, here's to more adventures, and new adventures and new trails and new and old friends alike!!
#TeamStrider
#TeamSocks
#PasoPower
Every single ride I've done has the beginning write-up, just not everything else.
Basic run down for us so far?
2015 Ride Season
Shanghai Trails: LD (25 miles) on Strider
32nd place in 4:38 (out of 37 completions)
Spirit of Texas: LD (25 miles) on Strider
33rd place in 5:10 (out of 33 completions) - Turtle award winner!
Off Road Warrior: LD (25 miles) on Strider
Over Time
Armadillo: LD (30 miles) on Socks
47th place in 6:57 (out of 47 completions)
**NOTE: My vet card says over time and slight lameness. I attempted to correct this, but suspect that the error happened due to my leaving that night and asking for my vet card.**
2016 Ride Season
River Run at Los Caminos Naturales: 50 miles on Strider
23rd place in 8:09 (out of 24 completions) - tied for Turtle award winner!
High Roller I: LD (25 miles) on Strider
30th place in 3:48 (out of 65 completions)
LD (25 miles) on Strider (Josh up)
31st place in 3:48 (out of 65 completions)
High Roller II: LD (25 miles) on Strider
37th place in 4:45 (out of 37 completions)
Racing Stripes: 50 miles on Strider
40th place in 8:59 (out of 42 completions)
Racing Stripes: LD (25 miles) on Strider
Pulled Lame at mile 25
LD (25 miles) on Socks (Korinne up)
19th place in 4:55 (out of 19 completions) - Turtle award winner!
Total mileage:
Strider - Limited Distance: 100 miles
- Endurance: 100 miles
Socks - Limited Distance: 80 miles
Currently Strider is ranked #4 with the Paso Fino Horse Association with 130 points in Endurance.
Let me say what an amazing journey this has been with both of my horses. To have taken a horse that really wasn't legged up to his first ride and to carefully manage him through it, while knowing NOTHING myself, just fumbling through and telling anyone when I was in camp "This is my first time!!!" to hauling to ride camp myself, setting up, having prepared my horse for the weeks leading up, doing my electrolyte protocols leading up to camp, knowing what needs to be done and getting it done, and then getting out on trail....it's a wonderful feeling.
To meeting people and riding out with them on trail, setting up a ride plan and then sticking to it...it's a wonderful feeling!!
To going to the out-timer, calling out your number and being told "Someone else gave me your number, but I knew it wasn't you Erin!" was honestly...it was a good feeling. If someone who only sees me a few times at each ride, but knew, at least in passing, who I was...it felt like I am maybe...MAYBE...starting to be a part of the bigger picture.
Not that I wasn't at my first ride. That Lynne was so sweet and kind to me, a complete stranger, who hauled me and my horse, shared her knowledge and coached me through...it was a wonderful feeling.
And at each ride, I meet new people, and make new friends who I only see at ride camp, and potentially interact with online.
But most of all, watching Strider really bloom and grow as a horse. He's turned in to a solid partner. With quirks. But I know he'll cross water. Cross bridges. Cattle don't bother him. New places delight him. And he will work his butt off for me if I ask. He's become a fun casual trail horse and a pleasure to take to ride camp. Mostly. Unless Socks is there and Socks is at the trailer. Then he's an asshole. And I kinda hate him.
But he's gone from this fat, overweight horse, to a lean and trimmed down horse. He's not a fire-breathing dragon at the start of a ride. He has energy, but he's not uncontrollable. For which I am thankful.
I've learned that 50 miles isn't really as hard as I first thought. My first 50 was shorter, time-wise, than my second 50, but I hurt less after my second 50. And I've realized that, for now...we're moving up the distance. Unless something dictates we drop back to LDs, we're staying at 50s. He's starting to understand the game better. So am I. My current plan, as it stands, is to stay at 50s for a year or two. Then bump to try a 75.
The fact is I know Strider has it in him to manage 75 miles. He, in fact, DID do 75 miles the weekend of Racing Stripes. He did ALL 75 miles, only to come up lame at the final vet check. He found a rock with his name on it, or just the hard percussion of gaiting on a hard-pack road did it to him. I will admit I was upset to begin with. For my valiant pony to have done it ALL and not earn his completion felt bitterly unfair. Except, that's the name of the game. Shit happens out there. And it's not like he didn't actually DO the mileage, he just wasn't fit to continue.
So after I calmed down a bit, I realized that. I couldn't have done anything differently, nor could he. It happens to everyone at some point. This was his. So we learned something. I learned he has 75 miles in him. If we can just avoid the rocks or hard roads.
So next weekend, we're off to try another 50. Just Strider and I. We're going to pair up with the team we did the 50 at Racing Stripes with and a friend of hers. I'm expecting good things!! I'm dialing in my tack and right now the saddle and pad I'm borrowing are working well. I'm going to try some new electrolytes out on the trail along with some carrots (natural e-lytes!) to keep him peppy and going strong. Waiting on the rear Renegades I ordered to come in. I do so hope they'll be here before this weekend. I wanted to try a good, long ride in them to make sure they'll stay on and work for us next weekend.
So, here's to more adventures, and new adventures and new trails and new and old friends alike!!
#TeamStrider
#TeamSocks
#PasoPower
Monday, March 07, 2016
Feels like I'm in horseback exile...
Week 2 of no riding.
Going a bit nuts. And watching the time trickle through my fingers, knowing I'm fixing to ask a LOT of my horse in 5 weekends. And knowing he's just sitting there NOT getting out and working concerns me a bit.
One, we're going to try out a different saddle. I need to pick an evening this week, and dash out to the barn and give it a trial run. Heather's loaning me a Bob Marshall saddle and some pads.
I was going through some Facebook page, and saw someone else was having some issues with their Abetta pinching the withers as the pommel bites down once they're in the saddle. Once Heather pointed that out to me at the ride at Granger, I realized, this might be some of Strider's issue. And I did use Heather's small-for-me Bob for about an hour, and he seemed different. I will say, it is INCREDIBLy odd to actually FEEL your horse move beneath you. VERY odd. Not bad, just different.
So, if it turns out we've got wither pinching issues, I'll have to puzzle it out. Some kind of shimmed pad to get it off his withers, or an entirely new saddle all together. Which, I really DON'T want to do. I actually like this saddle overall, though it's a cheap Abetta. It's synthetic, so I can abuse the hell out of it, no big deal.
Anyway, I told Joe that since the time change is coming up, I might start going to the barn 1 or 2 nights a week and riding. I mentioned my conditioning plan is getting shot all to hell, and that's not right. And, while he's doing baseball on weekends, I just need to shift how I'm doing things.
The reality is right now Strider's churning out 15 miles without an issue. HR is good. He's sweaty, but he's always sweaty. I'm gonna clip his neck for Racing Stripes (anything I can do to help him out). And, even if we only churn out the 50, that's fine with me.
Looking at the calendar, and his trim cycle, he's on track to be trimmed 2 weeks prior to Last Hoorah! in Cleburn. I'm a little intimidated to take him somewhere that he may or may not be able to do with just front boots. And it's why I badly want to get him rear Renegades. I just need to look at the measurements, find a used pair and get them. And then look for a Renegade dealer/fitter near me.
Red Draggin' came home yesterday thanks to Heather and Nate. New floor in the horse compartment. Serious wiring harness. I'm excited to take it out soon and go camping in my new and improved ride.
Otherwise, life is just chugging along. Saturday saw Austin driving to San Antonio. He's officially signed the paperwork to begin his enlistment with the United States Coast Guard. Just has to get his medical records submitted, then wait for his call to go do his MEPS. Graduate high school, then head off for boot camp. He's thinking in July, which is fine with me.
Sunday was spent doing 2 play dates for Kaylee. 9am we were at a small, but cute, playscape about 20 minutes from the house where we met 3 other of the August babies. Kaylee had so much fun running around and playing. We left a little after 11, so she was worn out. When we got home, she crashed out until about 2:30, when we got up, she ate, and Heather brought the trailer and her little girl. We put her daughter in the wagon, Kaylee on her trike, and went to the local park near our neighborhood and let the girls play for about an hour or so.
Suffice to say, babygirl was EXHAUSTED this morning.
Going a bit nuts. And watching the time trickle through my fingers, knowing I'm fixing to ask a LOT of my horse in 5 weekends. And knowing he's just sitting there NOT getting out and working concerns me a bit.
One, we're going to try out a different saddle. I need to pick an evening this week, and dash out to the barn and give it a trial run. Heather's loaning me a Bob Marshall saddle and some pads.
I was going through some Facebook page, and saw someone else was having some issues with their Abetta pinching the withers as the pommel bites down once they're in the saddle. Once Heather pointed that out to me at the ride at Granger, I realized, this might be some of Strider's issue. And I did use Heather's small-for-me Bob for about an hour, and he seemed different. I will say, it is INCREDIBLy odd to actually FEEL your horse move beneath you. VERY odd. Not bad, just different.
So, if it turns out we've got wither pinching issues, I'll have to puzzle it out. Some kind of shimmed pad to get it off his withers, or an entirely new saddle all together. Which, I really DON'T want to do. I actually like this saddle overall, though it's a cheap Abetta. It's synthetic, so I can abuse the hell out of it, no big deal.
Anyway, I told Joe that since the time change is coming up, I might start going to the barn 1 or 2 nights a week and riding. I mentioned my conditioning plan is getting shot all to hell, and that's not right. And, while he's doing baseball on weekends, I just need to shift how I'm doing things.
The reality is right now Strider's churning out 15 miles without an issue. HR is good. He's sweaty, but he's always sweaty. I'm gonna clip his neck for Racing Stripes (anything I can do to help him out). And, even if we only churn out the 50, that's fine with me.
Looking at the calendar, and his trim cycle, he's on track to be trimmed 2 weeks prior to Last Hoorah! in Cleburn. I'm a little intimidated to take him somewhere that he may or may not be able to do with just front boots. And it's why I badly want to get him rear Renegades. I just need to look at the measurements, find a used pair and get them. And then look for a Renegade dealer/fitter near me.
Red Draggin' came home yesterday thanks to Heather and Nate. New floor in the horse compartment. Serious wiring harness. I'm excited to take it out soon and go camping in my new and improved ride.
Otherwise, life is just chugging along. Saturday saw Austin driving to San Antonio. He's officially signed the paperwork to begin his enlistment with the United States Coast Guard. Just has to get his medical records submitted, then wait for his call to go do his MEPS. Graduate high school, then head off for boot camp. He's thinking in July, which is fine with me.
Sunday was spent doing 2 play dates for Kaylee. 9am we were at a small, but cute, playscape about 20 minutes from the house where we met 3 other of the August babies. Kaylee had so much fun running around and playing. We left a little after 11, so she was worn out. When we got home, she crashed out until about 2:30, when we got up, she ate, and Heather brought the trailer and her little girl. We put her daughter in the wagon, Kaylee on her trike, and went to the local park near our neighborhood and let the girls play for about an hour or so.
Suffice to say, babygirl was EXHAUSTED this morning.
Monday, February 08, 2016
Happiness Is....
My happiness is so many things.
Kaylee laughing makes me happy.
When Austin gets super excited about something and wants to talk and talk and talk about it.
Watching Pancho when he gets the "rips" (runs like a madman through the house for no apparent reason, but just keeps going...and going...and going some more).
And, of course, my horses. Being around and DOING horsey things is happiness to me.
Saturday was spent at Holly's place doing the equine body work clinic which was great. SO much information that we couldn't get it all in. I now have a great workbook though full of various trigger points, acupressure points and various other things I can do to help my horses.
It's super nice to have another tool in the toolbox when my horses are just a little "off". I can't wait to have some downtime to lay hands on them and play with these points.
And Sunday, it was up early-ish, finish loading the car, swing by the store and get some snacks and then bolt to the barn for a day full of riding!
We got in a little over 10 miles, not necessarily hauling ass, but moving some.
I (briefly) tried out a Podium saddle on Strider. I felt perched. Odd sensation. Such a shame because it's SUCH a lightweight saddle. But, no go.
For the first time out, I just rode my regular Abetta.
Second (brief) ride, I tried out a Bob Marshall treeless.
It's quite an odd sensation to FEEL your horse moving beneath you. I could FEEL the muscles of his back beneath my butt as he walked and gaited. I'm sure I was more tense that ride because all of a sudden I became HYPER aware of my seat, how I was sitting, how I was moving. Was I applying too much pressure to his back without the bars to spread my weight out? Is there a max weight limit in a treeless? Did he like it? How did he move?
The first few times we cantered, no bunny buck. He did toss a few in there though, and I'm reserving judgement on if I want to shift over to a treeless saddle full-time.
Right now, I'm going to try a shim under the Abetta at the pommel since it DOES seem to press down on his withers once my weight is in the saddle. Some release of pressure there might help him out.
Currently, he's logged a few miles in the Abetta, never come up back sore, but...if he'd move out better in a treeless, I'll sell the Abetta, or figure out some way to get him a good pad and treeless if he likes that better.
Overall, it was quite a nice ride. Once my trailer's floor is repaired, I'd like to ride at Granger more often (it's only $5 for a trailer load!) as it's a nice, flat and easy ride to condition.
You can only ride the same trails at "home" before you get bored out of your gourd.
Kaylee laughing makes me happy.
When Austin gets super excited about something and wants to talk and talk and talk about it.
Watching Pancho when he gets the "rips" (runs like a madman through the house for no apparent reason, but just keeps going...and going...and going some more).
And, of course, my horses. Being around and DOING horsey things is happiness to me.
Saturday was spent at Holly's place doing the equine body work clinic which was great. SO much information that we couldn't get it all in. I now have a great workbook though full of various trigger points, acupressure points and various other things I can do to help my horses.
It's super nice to have another tool in the toolbox when my horses are just a little "off". I can't wait to have some downtime to lay hands on them and play with these points.
And Sunday, it was up early-ish, finish loading the car, swing by the store and get some snacks and then bolt to the barn for a day full of riding!
We got in a little over 10 miles, not necessarily hauling ass, but moving some.
I (briefly) tried out a Podium saddle on Strider. I felt perched. Odd sensation. Such a shame because it's SUCH a lightweight saddle. But, no go.
For the first time out, I just rode my regular Abetta.
Second (brief) ride, I tried out a Bob Marshall treeless.
It's quite an odd sensation to FEEL your horse moving beneath you. I could FEEL the muscles of his back beneath my butt as he walked and gaited. I'm sure I was more tense that ride because all of a sudden I became HYPER aware of my seat, how I was sitting, how I was moving. Was I applying too much pressure to his back without the bars to spread my weight out? Is there a max weight limit in a treeless? Did he like it? How did he move?
The first few times we cantered, no bunny buck. He did toss a few in there though, and I'm reserving judgement on if I want to shift over to a treeless saddle full-time.
Right now, I'm going to try a shim under the Abetta at the pommel since it DOES seem to press down on his withers once my weight is in the saddle. Some release of pressure there might help him out.
Currently, he's logged a few miles in the Abetta, never come up back sore, but...if he'd move out better in a treeless, I'll sell the Abetta, or figure out some way to get him a good pad and treeless if he likes that better.
Overall, it was quite a nice ride. Once my trailer's floor is repaired, I'd like to ride at Granger more often (it's only $5 for a trailer load!) as it's a nice, flat and easy ride to condition.
You can only ride the same trails at "home" before you get bored out of your gourd.
Monday, February 01, 2016
Weekend warrior...
This weekend seemed filled with horses, though I only got to ride Sunday.
Saturday was a discount coggins/vaccine clinic, so I opted to haul the boys over and get everything done. That went fairly smoothly. Total time spent at the clinic itself, 45 minutes. So the boys now have (overlapping, but current) Coggins, their 6-way shots, rabies and the West Nile shot. $180 for 2 horses. Far cheaper than I've paid in the past. I'd actually forgotten ALL about West Nile until I was telling them which shots I wanted, and they asked if I wanted West Nile.
Duh me!! Yes please!!!
So, got all of that done and squared away, took the boys back home and let them have the rest of the BEAUTIFUL day off after getting shots and blood drawn and headed for home.
Took Austin out with my parents for his 18th birthday dinner at Tokyo Steakhouse.
After that, headed home, watched some more Dexter, then flopped in to bed so I could get up to go ride ALL DAY on Sunday!!!
I'm not exactly sure what's been going on in my head; but I've been feeling some sort of weird anxiety to ride my horse lately. He hasn't DONE anything. Well, nothing outside of the normal stuff he does under saddle. But for some reason, I just had this general sense of unease about stepping in to the stirrup to ride.
I took a few minutes to work on the "Come pick me up" lesson Holly taught us, then have him stand still at the mounting step, or whatever I'm standing on until I swing over him. He still walks off once I get on. And I SHOULD have stopped and done it over and over again, except I didn't want to make the whole group wait. And he had done well with "Come pick me up" (takes now just a light *cluck* and gentle touch of the crop and he slides over) and was pretty damn good with standing still.
The entire ride itself was good. He did a bunny buck at one point going down a hill (WTF dude?!). I don't know why or what caused it...but it's annoying as hell.
In my mental dreams, I'll save some money up between now and, say, June, and then send him to a trainer for about 2 weeks to:
Learn to sidepass to open/close a gate
Figure out what the EFF is with the bunny buck
The fact is, he's a good boy...mostly. He has some behaviors on the ground I hate, but I'm not sure how to cure them.
Rubbing his head on people. How do you STOP that?! I've let him "run into" my hand (or if he's an aggressive rubbing me, I do ball it up into a fist and nudge him with that when he rubs in to it [no, I don't deck my horse, but I sure as hell will put some emphasis on it]). That doesn't seem to deter him.
I hate it. It's a very rude behavior. Got some additional ideas besides the hand/elbow/fist to try.
But overall, it was such a nice ride that I didn't want it to end. I was ill-prepared, but had such a great time that I'm trying to puzzle out how to get some more riding time in this weekend.
I have a body work clinic this upcoming Saturday.
"EQUINE BODY WORK CLASS
Want to provide more comfort for your Horse?
Come join us in learning the tools to help your horse feel its best! You will learn acupressure 101, where the meridians are found, what they do & how to balance them. Body stretch release techniques, pre & post work out protocols, muscle
Trigger points, Chi protocols & proper leg wrapping."
Looking forward to it! I'm sure the boys will appreciate some extra TLC. Neither has presented as very out to me, and I do have a book that I bought after a lease-gone-bad with Strider had him so out of wack he couldn't even lift his feet for a trim at the recommendation of my farrier who works with the lady teaching the class. So, I should sit down and start to read that before this weekend.
"Beyond Horse Massage: A Breakthrough Interactive Method for Alleviating Soreness, Strain, and Tension" by Jim Masterson
I'm hoping after class I'll have time to run to the barn before the sun sets and get in about an hour or two in the saddle. With that time, I could knock out about 10 miles and get us back into conditioning again. I'm not sure how I'll be fitting a conditioning schedule in with Joe working baseball games on Saturdays; guess I'll be riding Sundays! Just gotta get up early and go get it knocked out!
I finally decided I really want to do another 50 (go figure, Ross was right at River Run; you get hooked). I'm going to send everything in for a 50 at Racing Stripes on Saturday and plan to turtle it. However, if it's too hot or whatnot, I'll drop to a 25 and be just as happy with the distance. Until I REALLY know what I've got under me in the heat, I want to be fair to him. I'll do what I did last year; cold water to help him out at the holds, but that black coat doesn't seem to do him any favors. And he's a sweaty beast. So, for now, it's ride carefully and cautiously and pull if things aren't going right.
PFHA FINALLY updated their rankings for Endurance points.
Strider jumped from 7th in the ranks to 4th.
I cannot express just how pleased I am with him. He's quirky. He has traits I really REALLY don't like.
But, he's honest. He doesn't bullshit you. The horse you see the horse you get. With lots of heart and try and intelligence. But when he's done, he's freaking DONE. You can ask, and you'll grudgingly get what you've asked for, but as long as you're kind and fair, he'll do what he can.
So, good job Strider. You're doing some amazing things this year. I can't wait to see what the rest of this ride season brings us. Not many rides here in Texas, and for now, I'm limiting myself to rides no further than about 5 hours away (Racing Stripes will be my longest drive).
Good boy Strider. Good GOOD boy.
Saturday was a discount coggins/vaccine clinic, so I opted to haul the boys over and get everything done. That went fairly smoothly. Total time spent at the clinic itself, 45 minutes. So the boys now have (overlapping, but current) Coggins, their 6-way shots, rabies and the West Nile shot. $180 for 2 horses. Far cheaper than I've paid in the past. I'd actually forgotten ALL about West Nile until I was telling them which shots I wanted, and they asked if I wanted West Nile.
Duh me!! Yes please!!!
So, got all of that done and squared away, took the boys back home and let them have the rest of the BEAUTIFUL day off after getting shots and blood drawn and headed for home.
Took Austin out with my parents for his 18th birthday dinner at Tokyo Steakhouse.
After that, headed home, watched some more Dexter, then flopped in to bed so I could get up to go ride ALL DAY on Sunday!!!
I'm not exactly sure what's been going on in my head; but I've been feeling some sort of weird anxiety to ride my horse lately. He hasn't DONE anything. Well, nothing outside of the normal stuff he does under saddle. But for some reason, I just had this general sense of unease about stepping in to the stirrup to ride.
I took a few minutes to work on the "Come pick me up" lesson Holly taught us, then have him stand still at the mounting step, or whatever I'm standing on until I swing over him. He still walks off once I get on. And I SHOULD have stopped and done it over and over again, except I didn't want to make the whole group wait. And he had done well with "Come pick me up" (takes now just a light *cluck* and gentle touch of the crop and he slides over) and was pretty damn good with standing still.
The entire ride itself was good. He did a bunny buck at one point going down a hill (WTF dude?!). I don't know why or what caused it...but it's annoying as hell.
In my mental dreams, I'll save some money up between now and, say, June, and then send him to a trainer for about 2 weeks to:
Learn to sidepass to open/close a gate
Figure out what the EFF is with the bunny buck
The fact is, he's a good boy...mostly. He has some behaviors on the ground I hate, but I'm not sure how to cure them.
Rubbing his head on people. How do you STOP that?! I've let him "run into" my hand (or if he's an aggressive rubbing me, I do ball it up into a fist and nudge him with that when he rubs in to it [no, I don't deck my horse, but I sure as hell will put some emphasis on it]). That doesn't seem to deter him.
I hate it. It's a very rude behavior. Got some additional ideas besides the hand/elbow/fist to try.
But overall, it was such a nice ride that I didn't want it to end. I was ill-prepared, but had such a great time that I'm trying to puzzle out how to get some more riding time in this weekend.
I have a body work clinic this upcoming Saturday.
"EQUINE BODY WORK CLASS
Want to provide more comfort for your Horse?
Come join us in learning the tools to help your horse feel its best! You will learn acupressure 101, where the meridians are found, what they do & how to balance them. Body stretch release techniques, pre & post work out protocols, muscle
Trigger points, Chi protocols & proper leg wrapping."
Looking forward to it! I'm sure the boys will appreciate some extra TLC. Neither has presented as very out to me, and I do have a book that I bought after a lease-gone-bad with Strider had him so out of wack he couldn't even lift his feet for a trim at the recommendation of my farrier who works with the lady teaching the class. So, I should sit down and start to read that before this weekend.
"Beyond Horse Massage: A Breakthrough Interactive Method for Alleviating Soreness, Strain, and Tension" by Jim Masterson
I'm hoping after class I'll have time to run to the barn before the sun sets and get in about an hour or two in the saddle. With that time, I could knock out about 10 miles and get us back into conditioning again. I'm not sure how I'll be fitting a conditioning schedule in with Joe working baseball games on Saturdays; guess I'll be riding Sundays! Just gotta get up early and go get it knocked out!
I finally decided I really want to do another 50 (go figure, Ross was right at River Run; you get hooked). I'm going to send everything in for a 50 at Racing Stripes on Saturday and plan to turtle it. However, if it's too hot or whatnot, I'll drop to a 25 and be just as happy with the distance. Until I REALLY know what I've got under me in the heat, I want to be fair to him. I'll do what I did last year; cold water to help him out at the holds, but that black coat doesn't seem to do him any favors. And he's a sweaty beast. So, for now, it's ride carefully and cautiously and pull if things aren't going right.
PFHA FINALLY updated their rankings for Endurance points.
Strider jumped from 7th in the ranks to 4th.
I cannot express just how pleased I am with him. He's quirky. He has traits I really REALLY don't like.
But, he's honest. He doesn't bullshit you. The horse you see the horse you get. With lots of heart and try and intelligence. But when he's done, he's freaking DONE. You can ask, and you'll grudgingly get what you've asked for, but as long as you're kind and fair, he'll do what he can.
So, good job Strider. You're doing some amazing things this year. I can't wait to see what the rest of this ride season brings us. Not many rides here in Texas, and for now, I'm limiting myself to rides no further than about 5 hours away (Racing Stripes will be my longest drive).
Good boy Strider. Good GOOD boy.
Friday, January 29, 2016
Goals, Successes and Looking Foward...
I honestly couldn't say how many half-written entries I have saved.
The PLAN is to go back and DO them. Finish the write-up from what I can salvage from my brain about each ride.
But, for my first year of riding AERC sanctioned rides, let me give my thoughts.
What a hell of an adventure this has been.
What started off as a combination of me thinking (years ago) "Endurance riding sounds like a sport I could do!! I can't afford a bunch of lessons to learn to jump or train my horse to do obstacles. I can't afford a barrel horse, or a cow horse, but I can trail ride!!!"
Mixed in liberally with my friends at the barn always saying (after hours of trail riding) "Strider seems like he still has SO MUCH energy left! You should do endurance riding!"
And a dash of "This is on my bucket list for THIS YEAR!" (after not being able to ride for almost a year since I was pregnant and then physically unable to ride due to C-Section).
So. I joined AERC before my first ride. Started reading more and more. Realized you really CAN do endurance in whatever tack you currently own (that was the other thing holding me back; my western saddles).
And then...I picked the very first ride that I could attend.
I managed to catch a ride with a nice lady who helped me through and let me sleep in her trailer that weekend. She walked me through the process she uses at ride camp to get the horses ready. And, with a few variations, it's a process I still follow myself.
First ride; Shanghai Trails. First 25 miles. 32nd place (out of 37 who completed) in 4:38.
HOOKED!!!
I did learn that at ride camp, some people really aren't very friendly, and some people are VERY welcoming to the new rider and willing to share their knowledge with one another.
I also, FAR more importantly learned, I'm the big brain, he's the little brain. And he's a hunter. He's constantly striving to hunt down the horse in front of him and keep up.
Second ride; Spirit of Texas. Another 25 miles. 33rd (out of 33 competing) in 5:10. Goal was to take the Turtle Award. I WON! Lady I was co-riding with (Bev) conceded it to me, though my horse pulsed down slightly faster than hers.
I learned at this ride you've GOT to keep an eye on the clock. I gained a better understanding of how the "game" is played. That, unlike an endurance ride, in a LD ride, you don't complete unless your horse pulses down before the 6 hours is up.
Third ride; Off-Road Warrior. Another 25 miles. But an OverTime for us.
I learned a LOT at this ride.
I learned my horse really wasn't fit. I learned (later) my saddle didn't really fit. I learned my horse has SO much heart to him though. So much try. The trails were very wet, very slippery and there was some soul-sucking mud on those trails. But he tried.
So with this ride, I kicked up my conditioning plan. Spent more hours in the saddle with him over the summer riding. And riding some more. Removed ALL grain from his (and my Arab's) diet.
And watched him tone up and drop the weight.
My fat, cresty Paso melted away.
And what was left to me was a horse who, while not a Top 10 Horse, was a horse who was stronger. Fitter. And who seemed to understand the game we were playing now.
With his weight loss, a new saddle. More gear for us (HR monitor among them).
And I set my sights on the 30 mile LD at Armadillo in October. It would be the first ride after the summer break here in Texas. Time to see what my now-fitter horse could do. Because I had my eyes set on a future ride that would be our first attempt at a 50.
So with all that in mind; trailer loaded. Gear packed.
And Strider wounded.
I cried. I cried a lot.
Right where the saddle sits, 2 very LONG gashes. Not deep, but if you touched them, he flinched. Vet wouldn't pass him to ride. And I wouldn't do that to him.
I called Joe in tears. Said I was just going to come home. The weekend was a bust.
He said "Take Socks. Even if you don't complete, you're still going to get to ride your horse, right? And that's what matters, right?"
True, I'd signed Socks up with AERC, so he had his own number. But it was never TRULY my intention to take him. He'd never been conditioned. He's my "husband" horse. The one who thinks a plod is the best gait on the planet.
But, I put him in the trailer and away we went.
This was the first ride where I truly started to feel a bit more comfortable in ride camp. I actually KNEW some people when I sat down at the ride meeting.
So, here's where it gets weird.
AERC shows Socks completed the ride. 30 miles. 47th place out of 47 finishers. EXCEPT, his ride card shows overtime.
Which I mentioned to the Ride Manager once I saw the results were posted. I mentioned to AERC. It still reflects a completion. This doesn't sit well with me, but I did what I was supposed to do. In my heart, those miles don't count on the record.
Anyway, here's what I've learned.
Socks LOVES endurance (well, Limited Distance, anyway). From the minute we hit the trail, he trotted out happily. He tore up the trail cantering. He just had SO much fun!! My body didn't. But he sure did. Even when we had to ride alone the last 17 miles, he trotted out.
I'm not sure why, but the last hour or so, I bonked on the trail. Didn't drink or eat enough in the afternoon, I'm not really sure. I just felt so TIRED, like "I'm falling asleep in the saddle" tired. But, Socks was so game and plucky. I was really just a passenger, and he just kept on going and took care of me.
So, what I learned.
Don't get lost on trail. Seriously. I think, according to a friend's Endomondo, we added 4 miles. And I was literally just a few minutes late in to camp.
I also learned, if riding a trotting horse, have someone who can assist when you get back. I practically fell out of the saddle, stripped it off, and started sponging him, but was shaking so bad that my friend took over for me (she RO'd so was in camp).
More months spent conditioning Strider. And having friends now ride my eager-to-go-wanna-be endurance horse Socks. Seriously; the change in that horse is amazing. He's found his passion.
And then, the 2016 ride season for AERC was upon us.
December 5, 2016. River Run at Los Caminos Naturales. Strider's first attempt at a 50.
I selected this ride as our first 50 attempt for LOTS of reasons.
Flat and fast ride. But more importantly; the temperature should be cool.
50 miles. 23rd place out of 23 riders. Co-turtled with another Paso Fino rider in 8:09. First goal, ACCOMPLISHED!! I can now call myself and my horse "endurance" horse and rider (I've never found a good term for LD riders that non-endurance people understand).
Things I learned. So far, a cooler weather ride really is his friend. His HR dropped fast at camp. He still vets in higher than Socks, but he comes in to parameter fast (helps that I dismount, loosen cinch and hand-walk him in to camp, giving him a few extra minutes).
He gets a little bored about the last 10 miles. He still did his job, but he couldn't seem to understand why we were still going. He wasn't quite as plucky, and he does seem to go better when there's another horse to ride with. Which factors in for our next ride.
Second ride of 2016. High Roller at 7iL. First attempt at back-to-back 25s. I also sponsored Josh in his first LD attempt on Socks.
So, for Socks on Saturday: 31st out of 65 completions in 3:48:25. Yes, we were flying.
For Strider on Saturday: 30th out of 65 completions in 3:48:24.
I honestly hadn't intended to go that fast. Socks took advantage of an inexperienced rider in his love for the sport (did I mention how much he wants to go now?!) and cantered anytime there was an open space. And Strider just kept up with him; hence an unknown factor for this ride. Basically, Strider drafted Socks the whole ride, which was okay with me.
Sunday, Strider did another 25. We took it MUCH slower, walking probably the last 2 or 3 miles in.
37th place out of 37 completing (wasn't my intention, I planned on conceding Turtle to my friend Lyz) in 4:45:59
Things I learned; I don't ever again want to take both of my horses to a ride unless they can either ride together, or someone can take care of the one left at camp and bring it over to vet check. Strider was HORRIBLE for mounting and I couldn't vet him in at the hold because he was dancing around looking for Socks. Embarrassing and dangerous.
And now...I'm not sure where to go.
I'd like to attempt another 50, and am seriously considering it at Racing Stripes in April. I'm taking Socks for a friend to ride. She'll do the 25, assuming another friend comes so they can ride together. Otherwise, I'll bump down to the 25. Except...I really REALLY want the 50.
I'm also riding for points with PFHA. They haven't currently updated the standings, but he's got 46 points, and with the 2 25's, should be sitting at about 85 points (if memory serves me right). Not sure where that will put him in the standings as he's currently 7th out of 12, and I'm sure others have been out earning points too.
But another 50 would help.
And then after Racing Stripes, I'm doing a 25 at Spirit of Texas again. I want to actually see the LBJ Grasslands as last year, it was so wet that we spent most of our time on the road.
Then one final ride before the summer in May at Last Hoorah!
I'm just not sure what my next goal should be. More 50's without a doubt. Maybe a 50 and a 25.
My long-term goal has always been Decade Team with Strider. And when we did River Run, we started down that path. 9 more years of at least 1 50 and we'll have made it.
Except, that feels like a cheat to me. So, I'd like to attempt a few more 50's each year so I don't feel like I cheated to get Decade Team.
All I can really do at this point is just ride each ride as it comes. Focus on keeping my horse sound and in shape. And enjoy the trails as they unfold before me.
The PLAN is to go back and DO them. Finish the write-up from what I can salvage from my brain about each ride.
But, for my first year of riding AERC sanctioned rides, let me give my thoughts.
What a hell of an adventure this has been.
What started off as a combination of me thinking (years ago) "Endurance riding sounds like a sport I could do!! I can't afford a bunch of lessons to learn to jump or train my horse to do obstacles. I can't afford a barrel horse, or a cow horse, but I can trail ride!!!"
Mixed in liberally with my friends at the barn always saying (after hours of trail riding) "Strider seems like he still has SO MUCH energy left! You should do endurance riding!"
And a dash of "This is on my bucket list for THIS YEAR!" (after not being able to ride for almost a year since I was pregnant and then physically unable to ride due to C-Section).
So. I joined AERC before my first ride. Started reading more and more. Realized you really CAN do endurance in whatever tack you currently own (that was the other thing holding me back; my western saddles).
And then...I picked the very first ride that I could attend.
I managed to catch a ride with a nice lady who helped me through and let me sleep in her trailer that weekend. She walked me through the process she uses at ride camp to get the horses ready. And, with a few variations, it's a process I still follow myself.
First ride; Shanghai Trails. First 25 miles. 32nd place (out of 37 who completed) in 4:38.
HOOKED!!!
I did learn that at ride camp, some people really aren't very friendly, and some people are VERY welcoming to the new rider and willing to share their knowledge with one another.
I also, FAR more importantly learned, I'm the big brain, he's the little brain. And he's a hunter. He's constantly striving to hunt down the horse in front of him and keep up.
Second ride; Spirit of Texas. Another 25 miles. 33rd (out of 33 competing) in 5:10. Goal was to take the Turtle Award. I WON! Lady I was co-riding with (Bev) conceded it to me, though my horse pulsed down slightly faster than hers.
I learned at this ride you've GOT to keep an eye on the clock. I gained a better understanding of how the "game" is played. That, unlike an endurance ride, in a LD ride, you don't complete unless your horse pulses down before the 6 hours is up.
Third ride; Off-Road Warrior. Another 25 miles. But an OverTime for us.
I learned a LOT at this ride.
I learned my horse really wasn't fit. I learned (later) my saddle didn't really fit. I learned my horse has SO much heart to him though. So much try. The trails were very wet, very slippery and there was some soul-sucking mud on those trails. But he tried.
So with this ride, I kicked up my conditioning plan. Spent more hours in the saddle with him over the summer riding. And riding some more. Removed ALL grain from his (and my Arab's) diet.
And watched him tone up and drop the weight.
My fat, cresty Paso melted away.
And what was left to me was a horse who, while not a Top 10 Horse, was a horse who was stronger. Fitter. And who seemed to understand the game we were playing now.
With his weight loss, a new saddle. More gear for us (HR monitor among them).
And I set my sights on the 30 mile LD at Armadillo in October. It would be the first ride after the summer break here in Texas. Time to see what my now-fitter horse could do. Because I had my eyes set on a future ride that would be our first attempt at a 50.
So with all that in mind; trailer loaded. Gear packed.
And Strider wounded.
I cried. I cried a lot.
Right where the saddle sits, 2 very LONG gashes. Not deep, but if you touched them, he flinched. Vet wouldn't pass him to ride. And I wouldn't do that to him.
I called Joe in tears. Said I was just going to come home. The weekend was a bust.
He said "Take Socks. Even if you don't complete, you're still going to get to ride your horse, right? And that's what matters, right?"
True, I'd signed Socks up with AERC, so he had his own number. But it was never TRULY my intention to take him. He'd never been conditioned. He's my "husband" horse. The one who thinks a plod is the best gait on the planet.
But, I put him in the trailer and away we went.
This was the first ride where I truly started to feel a bit more comfortable in ride camp. I actually KNEW some people when I sat down at the ride meeting.
So, here's where it gets weird.
AERC shows Socks completed the ride. 30 miles. 47th place out of 47 finishers. EXCEPT, his ride card shows overtime.
Which I mentioned to the Ride Manager once I saw the results were posted. I mentioned to AERC. It still reflects a completion. This doesn't sit well with me, but I did what I was supposed to do. In my heart, those miles don't count on the record.
Anyway, here's what I've learned.
Socks LOVES endurance (well, Limited Distance, anyway). From the minute we hit the trail, he trotted out happily. He tore up the trail cantering. He just had SO much fun!! My body didn't. But he sure did. Even when we had to ride alone the last 17 miles, he trotted out.
I'm not sure why, but the last hour or so, I bonked on the trail. Didn't drink or eat enough in the afternoon, I'm not really sure. I just felt so TIRED, like "I'm falling asleep in the saddle" tired. But, Socks was so game and plucky. I was really just a passenger, and he just kept on going and took care of me.
So, what I learned.
Don't get lost on trail. Seriously. I think, according to a friend's Endomondo, we added 4 miles. And I was literally just a few minutes late in to camp.
I also learned, if riding a trotting horse, have someone who can assist when you get back. I practically fell out of the saddle, stripped it off, and started sponging him, but was shaking so bad that my friend took over for me (she RO'd so was in camp).
More months spent conditioning Strider. And having friends now ride my eager-to-go-wanna-be endurance horse Socks. Seriously; the change in that horse is amazing. He's found his passion.
And then, the 2016 ride season for AERC was upon us.
December 5, 2016. River Run at Los Caminos Naturales. Strider's first attempt at a 50.
I selected this ride as our first 50 attempt for LOTS of reasons.
Flat and fast ride. But more importantly; the temperature should be cool.
50 miles. 23rd place out of 23 riders. Co-turtled with another Paso Fino rider in 8:09. First goal, ACCOMPLISHED!! I can now call myself and my horse "endurance" horse and rider (I've never found a good term for LD riders that non-endurance people understand).
Things I learned. So far, a cooler weather ride really is his friend. His HR dropped fast at camp. He still vets in higher than Socks, but he comes in to parameter fast (helps that I dismount, loosen cinch and hand-walk him in to camp, giving him a few extra minutes).
He gets a little bored about the last 10 miles. He still did his job, but he couldn't seem to understand why we were still going. He wasn't quite as plucky, and he does seem to go better when there's another horse to ride with. Which factors in for our next ride.
Second ride of 2016. High Roller at 7iL. First attempt at back-to-back 25s. I also sponsored Josh in his first LD attempt on Socks.
So, for Socks on Saturday: 31st out of 65 completions in 3:48:25. Yes, we were flying.
For Strider on Saturday: 30th out of 65 completions in 3:48:24.
I honestly hadn't intended to go that fast. Socks took advantage of an inexperienced rider in his love for the sport (did I mention how much he wants to go now?!) and cantered anytime there was an open space. And Strider just kept up with him; hence an unknown factor for this ride. Basically, Strider drafted Socks the whole ride, which was okay with me.
Sunday, Strider did another 25. We took it MUCH slower, walking probably the last 2 or 3 miles in.
37th place out of 37 completing (wasn't my intention, I planned on conceding Turtle to my friend Lyz) in 4:45:59
Things I learned; I don't ever again want to take both of my horses to a ride unless they can either ride together, or someone can take care of the one left at camp and bring it over to vet check. Strider was HORRIBLE for mounting and I couldn't vet him in at the hold because he was dancing around looking for Socks. Embarrassing and dangerous.
And now...I'm not sure where to go.
I'd like to attempt another 50, and am seriously considering it at Racing Stripes in April. I'm taking Socks for a friend to ride. She'll do the 25, assuming another friend comes so they can ride together. Otherwise, I'll bump down to the 25. Except...I really REALLY want the 50.
I'm also riding for points with PFHA. They haven't currently updated the standings, but he's got 46 points, and with the 2 25's, should be sitting at about 85 points (if memory serves me right). Not sure where that will put him in the standings as he's currently 7th out of 12, and I'm sure others have been out earning points too.
But another 50 would help.
And then after Racing Stripes, I'm doing a 25 at Spirit of Texas again. I want to actually see the LBJ Grasslands as last year, it was so wet that we spent most of our time on the road.
Then one final ride before the summer in May at Last Hoorah!
I'm just not sure what my next goal should be. More 50's without a doubt. Maybe a 50 and a 25.
My long-term goal has always been Decade Team with Strider. And when we did River Run, we started down that path. 9 more years of at least 1 50 and we'll have made it.
Except, that feels like a cheat to me. So, I'd like to attempt a few more 50's each year so I don't feel like I cheated to get Decade Team.
All I can really do at this point is just ride each ride as it comes. Focus on keeping my horse sound and in shape. And enjoy the trails as they unfold before me.
Wednesday, October 21, 2015
For The New Endurance Rider
Funny, right? For me, a newbie to title a post that.
But I've had enough people express interest to me when my eyes get that gleam, you know the look; the one that a junkie gets when they're talking about their most recent fix. Or they hear "I can't meet that weekend, I've got an E-Ride."
What's an E-Ride? Seems to be the usual response.
I also get variations of "You're nuts." Or "Why do you DO that?" Or "Uhm, okay."
What can I say? I'm in it for the "free" T-shirt. And by "free" I mean it only cost me gas, hay, feed, the horse, tack, the trailer, my time, my food, something for me to sleep in, my ride fees, etc, etc. But hey, outside of all of that, it's TOTALLY free.
CAVEAT UP FRONT:
I'm still learning myself!! I don't profess to have the answers, but I hope that this will help point you in the right direction. And point you towards the resources that I myself use.
The main source for all things endurance: AERC.org
This is the American Endurance Ride Conference. At this webpage, you can locate the ride calendar, track your mileage, your horses mileage, look up other riders and get the beginning information you will need to successfully get started.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx4Qhez7S753wqU5MCnJ4w
This is the AERC YouTube channel where you can learn about things that most beginners ask about frequestly.
How do I safely camp with my horse?
How do I follow the trail?
What is a vet check?
What do I do when I get in to camp?
Or, would you prefer to read something?
http://aerc.org/static/AERC_Rider_Handbook.pdf
The AERC Rider Handbook is another great resource!!!
Trust me. This is a GREAT place to begin your education.
So, you've now looked all over the AERC website. Perhaps you've even reached out to Troy (she's great, by the way) and decided you want to join. COOL!!
But, perhaps you want to wait and do a ride before you pay your money. COOL!! You can do endurance either way!!!
Oh, you want to know WHY you should join?
Simple. It saves you money ($15 a ride) at endurance rides UNLESS you're riding "Introduction" rides (I'll cover that further).
But there's more.
AERC keeps track of how many miles as a rider YOU have done and how many your HORSE has done. It also tracks your points (yes, there are points to potentially be earned at rides).
But you also get the Endurance News from AERC. This also has a ride calendar in the back, it has useful articles, photos, and is the official notification of final ride results. There's nothing like seeing you and your horse's name in print when you've completed a ride. :)
Like I said, don't feel pressured to join.
So, you still have more questions.
Jump on over to Facebook and join the North American Green Bean Endurance page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/greenbeanendurance/
What's that? A "Green Bean" is a rider who is brand new to the sport and, if my memory off the top of my head is right, has less than 1,000 AERC miles.
The Facebook page is great for asking immediate questions and getting immediate answers. So far, there are people of varied experience contributing, so don't think it's just newbies helping newbies. It's experienced riders as well as beginners sharing what does and doesn't work. HIGHLY recommended.
From there, go to the Green Bean Endurance page:
http://www.greenbeanendurance.org/
You can join for a nominal fee. The reason I am a member is because there are competitions, and I think supporting fellow new riders is VERY important. And I feel like a part of the "Bean" community. There are also competitions; both Team and this year (2016) Individual.
Now, let me get to the hard copies of things I've found both useful, fun or various.
The ones I have personal experience with.
Books:
"The Complete Guide to Endurance Riding and Competition" by Donna Snyder-Smith
http://www.amazon.com/Complete-Endurance-Riding-Competition-reference/dp/0876052847
"Go the Distance: The Complete Resource for Endurance Horses" by Nancy S. Loving
http://www.amazon.com/Go-Distance-Complete-Resource-Endurance/dp/1570763429
"The Lighter Side of Endurance Riding" by Angie McGhee
Let me say this; this is both educational but HYSTERICAL!! I frequently found myself laughing (and this was before I'd ever been on a ride). You CAN buy this book used through Amazon, but don't. Just, don't. Go to:
https://www.facebook.com/The-Lighter-Side-of-Endurance-Riding-617006308312312/ and send her a message. Cost of the book (including shipping) I believe is $20 and she'll even sign and do a personal inscription if you want.
One I have not yet read:
"Endurance 101" by Aarene Storms
http://www.endurance-101.com/ (side note; Aarene makes more money if you buy direct from her website)
This one does, however, come HIGHLY recommended!!
NOW!! For you, my fellow riders in Texas, here is one more additional resource.
TERA.
Texas Endurance Riders Association.
http://www.texasenduranceriders.org/
And now, perhaps the part you, as a blossoming endurance hopeful were waiting for. Information on tack.
Let's be honest, we've all seen the photos of endurance horses decked out in flashy and bright biothane tack.
Except, let me tell you; you don't need it.
Did I just crush your spirit?
I'm so sorry. Except it's true. Please, Please, PLEASE for the love of your wallet and all that is holy and un-, do NOT go running out to buy a new pad, saddle, halter/bridle/reins/bit/hackamore and then all new clothes for yourself. Just don't do it.
Does the saddle you're currently riding in (yes, even that 40lb cutting saddle!) fit you, but more importantly, does it fit your HORSE?! GREAT! Use it.
Don't argue with me, I promise, use it. Go ride a ride and then come back and let me know what you think.
However, perhaps get yourself a pair of leggings. Jeans for 25 miles might chafe. There is a local Texas rider, and he DOES do rides in jeans, but he is the exception, NOT the rule.
Okay, so now...what does your horse need to know?
Can your horse stand still? And I mean stand still when there is a CAMP full of other horses milling about and whinneying and calling out and people talking and trailers driving in and out? It needn't be flawless, but constant dancing at the end of a leadline like a kite on a blustery day isn't going to cut it. You're not even in the saddle yet and your horse is acting a fool? Do yourself a favor, work on your horse standing still. This is a skill a horse simply needs to have in order to not be an annoying shit and waste your time and the rider behind you's time. This comes in handy while the vet sticks their fingers in your horses mouth (PS-hope your horse is cool with that!), does the "skin pinch" test, runs their hands down your horse's back (checking for soreness), gets behind your horse to check muscle tone (Oh yeah, PS-hope your horse is cool with THAT little test too!), checks your horse's heart rate and gut sounds. Then, comes the trot out. PS-Hope YOU can run. If not, don't be ashamed to ask for help for someone to trot out your horse. You simply will run your horse on a LOOSE lead down to a cone, go around it to the LEFT (to the LEFT to the LEFT, I almost got creamed by a lady who turned to the right last weekend) and then run them back to the vet. Vet is looking for lameness or gait aberrations. They'll check the heart rate again.
Oh, let me break this down quickly for you as well; you may hear the P&R (Pulse & Respiriation) person say "10". What this means is your horse's heart rate is at 40. Take the number called, multiply by 4. USUALLY for a 25 (at least for my rides) your target heartrate is 60 or less.
Now, I said I'd cover an "Intro" ride, didn't I?
An Intro ride is treated EXACTLY like an endurance ride with one exception; no time limit. You vet your horse in before you go on your ride. You get a vet card. You go ride your loop (usually a 10-15 mile loop total MAX). Come in and vet your horse again. Do you want to take an hour to ride that loop? Fine. 2 hours? Cool. All DAY to ride that loop. Fine, but you're missing the point, go back to Endurance 101 and the casual trail riding groups. No offense, but this isn't for you.
Okay then...here we go.
25 miles. You have 6 TOTAL hours to complete the ride with your holds AND get your horse to come down to pulse parameters.
"What's a hold?"
Ahhhh...a hold is a mandatory period of time in which you must stay in camp with your horse. The length of time is usually covered at the ride meeting, typically 45 minutes to an hour. During this time you'll pulse down, vet in, go pee, feed and water your horse, feed and water yourself, take a break, and then wonder where did that time go, because you have 10 minutes to get back in the saddle for your "Out" time.
Really, the time does go by quickly.
"Loop"
A loop is usually the distance you'll ride (USUALLY) before a vet check/hold/etc. Distance varies. You'll frequently hear riders referring to them as "loops" (IE-"That 17 mile loop was HARD!" or "You'll do a 13 mile loop for your first loop, and a 12 mile loop for your second loop.").
"Turtle"
This is simply going slow. I would venture to say EVERY ride has a Turtle award for each distance. This is the person who came in last and sometimes is hotly fought for.
RM-Ride Manager; this is the person or persons who are putting on the ride. Be kind, be courteous and make sure to say THANK YOU to them for doing it. Without them, there'd be no ride.
Vet-Do I Even Need to Cover this?
Scribe-Person who writes on your vet card what the vet tells them to. Be kind and courteous and polite to them as well. They're usually volunteers.
In/Out Timer-These are the people you will call your number out to as you enter camp and when you leave camp. DO NOT FORGET!! Time is very important in this game.
30 miles. Total of 7 hours and 15 minutes to complete your ride with your holds AND get your horse to pulse down.
These distances are considered "LD" or Limited Distance. They are not considered "endurance miles" by AERC. They are kept in a different category than endurance miles.
And, here we go.
50 miles. Total of 12 hours to complete your ride. You have an additional 30 minutes to get your horse to pulse down.
100 miles. Total of 24 hours to complete your ride. You have an additional 30 minutes to get your horse to pulse down.
Now that I've said all that, let me say a few last things as a greenie.
"Ride your own ride."
You can make all the plans you want before a ride. You're going to ride with your friends. You're going to ride alone. You want to set a fast pace. You want to set a slow pace. Whatever your goals are, understand that they can change! Do what is best for you and your HORSE! Is your horse struggling at that fast pace that the front runners set? Slow down!! Walk. Take it easy. Don't override your horse. That's a cardinal sin. Far better to overtime on your horse but come in than to override and have your horse need fluids or collapse or be in distress because you pushed too hard.
"To Finish is to Win"
This is AERC's motto. And I take this one to heart. Did you have to pull due to lameness? Did you turtle your ride? Did you OT? Did you even show UP? You win!
It's a sport. And people are highly competitive. And yet, I've seen people offer assistance and aid to fellow riders. Even when it could potentially cost them their ride, people stop to offer aid or guidance.
Even at my last ride, I spent about 17 miles riding alone. My horse was chugging along, but getting a little tired and bored with being alone. And a 50 mile rider came up, I pulled over to allow her to pass, and she said we were welcome to "draft", which we did for a while, until I determined it was enough for my horse. She continued to ride her ride, and I continued to ride mine.
Believe me, this isn't for everyone. And you'll make mistakes. I have. And I've gone overtime twice (on two different horses). And yet, I've now ridden trails I might not have ridden otherwise. I've shared the experience with two of my favorite 4-legged animals. I've met some amazing human and equine athletes. And I've camped at some pretty places and enjoyed some FANTASTIC meals in ride camps.
4 rides in. I've got the bug.
I hope that this helps. I hope that more experienced endurance riders will drop some useful info in here!!
PS-I have a separate blog post that I'll put up at some point, but...these are blogs (mixed); primarily of Endurance Riders. The first two (the $900 Facebook Pony and She Moved to Texas) are NOT! But the others are, or have an Endurance bent. I also find them to be good and useful resources as well!!
The $900 Facebook Pony
http://the900facebookpony.com/
She Moved to Texas
http://www.shemovedtotexas.com/
Redheaded Endurance
http://redheadedendurance.com/
Endurance Granny
http://endurancegranny.blogspot.com/
It Seemed Like a Good Idea at the Time (Funder's Good Idea)
http://fundersgoodidea.blogspot.com/
What Could Possibly Go Wrong
http://www.agemofahorse.blogspot.com/
Green to 100
https://greento100.wordpress.com/
The Journey to 100 Miles
http://fit2continue.blogspot.com/
Wait for the Jump
http://waitingforthejump.blogspot.com/
Merri Travels
http://merritravels.endurance.net/
Karen's Horse Tails
http://karenshorsetales.blogspot.com/
Motoring Down The Trails
motoringtrails.blogspot.com/
William The Conqueror
https://willstheconqueror.wordpress.com/
But I've had enough people express interest to me when my eyes get that gleam, you know the look; the one that a junkie gets when they're talking about their most recent fix. Or they hear "I can't meet that weekend, I've got an E-Ride."
What's an E-Ride? Seems to be the usual response.
I also get variations of "You're nuts." Or "Why do you DO that?" Or "Uhm, okay."
What can I say? I'm in it for the "free" T-shirt. And by "free" I mean it only cost me gas, hay, feed, the horse, tack, the trailer, my time, my food, something for me to sleep in, my ride fees, etc, etc. But hey, outside of all of that, it's TOTALLY free.
CAVEAT UP FRONT:
I'm still learning myself!! I don't profess to have the answers, but I hope that this will help point you in the right direction. And point you towards the resources that I myself use.
The main source for all things endurance: AERC.org
This is the American Endurance Ride Conference. At this webpage, you can locate the ride calendar, track your mileage, your horses mileage, look up other riders and get the beginning information you will need to successfully get started.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx4Qhez7S753wqU5MCnJ4w
This is the AERC YouTube channel where you can learn about things that most beginners ask about frequestly.
How do I safely camp with my horse?
How do I follow the trail?
What is a vet check?
What do I do when I get in to camp?
Or, would you prefer to read something?
http://aerc.org/static/AERC_Rider_Handbook.pdf
The AERC Rider Handbook is another great resource!!!
Trust me. This is a GREAT place to begin your education.
So, you've now looked all over the AERC website. Perhaps you've even reached out to Troy (she's great, by the way) and decided you want to join. COOL!!
But, perhaps you want to wait and do a ride before you pay your money. COOL!! You can do endurance either way!!!
Oh, you want to know WHY you should join?
Simple. It saves you money ($15 a ride) at endurance rides UNLESS you're riding "Introduction" rides (I'll cover that further).
But there's more.
AERC keeps track of how many miles as a rider YOU have done and how many your HORSE has done. It also tracks your points (yes, there are points to potentially be earned at rides).
But you also get the Endurance News from AERC. This also has a ride calendar in the back, it has useful articles, photos, and is the official notification of final ride results. There's nothing like seeing you and your horse's name in print when you've completed a ride. :)
Like I said, don't feel pressured to join.
So, you still have more questions.
Jump on over to Facebook and join the North American Green Bean Endurance page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/greenbeanendurance/
What's that? A "Green Bean" is a rider who is brand new to the sport and, if my memory off the top of my head is right, has less than 1,000 AERC miles.
The Facebook page is great for asking immediate questions and getting immediate answers. So far, there are people of varied experience contributing, so don't think it's just newbies helping newbies. It's experienced riders as well as beginners sharing what does and doesn't work. HIGHLY recommended.
From there, go to the Green Bean Endurance page:
http://www.greenbeanendurance.org/
You can join for a nominal fee. The reason I am a member is because there are competitions, and I think supporting fellow new riders is VERY important. And I feel like a part of the "Bean" community. There are also competitions; both Team and this year (2016) Individual.
Now, let me get to the hard copies of things I've found both useful, fun or various.
The ones I have personal experience with.
Books:
"The Complete Guide to Endurance Riding and Competition" by Donna Snyder-Smith
http://www.amazon.com/Complete-Endurance-Riding-Competition-reference/dp/0876052847
"Go the Distance: The Complete Resource for Endurance Horses" by Nancy S. Loving
http://www.amazon.com/Go-Distance-Complete-Resource-Endurance/dp/1570763429
"The Lighter Side of Endurance Riding" by Angie McGhee
Let me say this; this is both educational but HYSTERICAL!! I frequently found myself laughing (and this was before I'd ever been on a ride). You CAN buy this book used through Amazon, but don't. Just, don't. Go to:
https://www.facebook.com/The-Lighter-Side-of-Endurance-Riding-617006308312312/ and send her a message. Cost of the book (including shipping) I believe is $20 and she'll even sign and do a personal inscription if you want.
One I have not yet read:
"Endurance 101" by Aarene Storms
http://www.endurance-101.com/ (side note; Aarene makes more money if you buy direct from her website)
This one does, however, come HIGHLY recommended!!
NOW!! For you, my fellow riders in Texas, here is one more additional resource.
TERA.
Texas Endurance Riders Association.
http://www.texasenduranceriders.org/
And now, perhaps the part you, as a blossoming endurance hopeful were waiting for. Information on tack.
Let's be honest, we've all seen the photos of endurance horses decked out in flashy and bright biothane tack.
Except, let me tell you; you don't need it.
Did I just crush your spirit?
I'm so sorry. Except it's true. Please, Please, PLEASE for the love of your wallet and all that is holy and un-, do NOT go running out to buy a new pad, saddle, halter/bridle/reins/bit/hackamore and then all new clothes for yourself. Just don't do it.
Does the saddle you're currently riding in (yes, even that 40lb cutting saddle!) fit you, but more importantly, does it fit your HORSE?! GREAT! Use it.
Don't argue with me, I promise, use it. Go ride a ride and then come back and let me know what you think.
However, perhaps get yourself a pair of leggings. Jeans for 25 miles might chafe. There is a local Texas rider, and he DOES do rides in jeans, but he is the exception, NOT the rule.
Okay, so now...what does your horse need to know?
Can your horse stand still? And I mean stand still when there is a CAMP full of other horses milling about and whinneying and calling out and people talking and trailers driving in and out? It needn't be flawless, but constant dancing at the end of a leadline like a kite on a blustery day isn't going to cut it. You're not even in the saddle yet and your horse is acting a fool? Do yourself a favor, work on your horse standing still. This is a skill a horse simply needs to have in order to not be an annoying shit and waste your time and the rider behind you's time. This comes in handy while the vet sticks their fingers in your horses mouth (PS-hope your horse is cool with that!), does the "skin pinch" test, runs their hands down your horse's back (checking for soreness), gets behind your horse to check muscle tone (Oh yeah, PS-hope your horse is cool with THAT little test too!), checks your horse's heart rate and gut sounds. Then, comes the trot out. PS-Hope YOU can run. If not, don't be ashamed to ask for help for someone to trot out your horse. You simply will run your horse on a LOOSE lead down to a cone, go around it to the LEFT (to the LEFT to the LEFT, I almost got creamed by a lady who turned to the right last weekend) and then run them back to the vet. Vet is looking for lameness or gait aberrations. They'll check the heart rate again.
Oh, let me break this down quickly for you as well; you may hear the P&R (Pulse & Respiriation) person say "10". What this means is your horse's heart rate is at 40. Take the number called, multiply by 4. USUALLY for a 25 (at least for my rides) your target heartrate is 60 or less.
Now, I said I'd cover an "Intro" ride, didn't I?
An Intro ride is treated EXACTLY like an endurance ride with one exception; no time limit. You vet your horse in before you go on your ride. You get a vet card. You go ride your loop (usually a 10-15 mile loop total MAX). Come in and vet your horse again. Do you want to take an hour to ride that loop? Fine. 2 hours? Cool. All DAY to ride that loop. Fine, but you're missing the point, go back to Endurance 101 and the casual trail riding groups. No offense, but this isn't for you.
Okay then...here we go.
25 miles. You have 6 TOTAL hours to complete the ride with your holds AND get your horse to come down to pulse parameters.
"What's a hold?"
Ahhhh...a hold is a mandatory period of time in which you must stay in camp with your horse. The length of time is usually covered at the ride meeting, typically 45 minutes to an hour. During this time you'll pulse down, vet in, go pee, feed and water your horse, feed and water yourself, take a break, and then wonder where did that time go, because you have 10 minutes to get back in the saddle for your "Out" time.
Really, the time does go by quickly.
"Loop"
A loop is usually the distance you'll ride (USUALLY) before a vet check/hold/etc. Distance varies. You'll frequently hear riders referring to them as "loops" (IE-"That 17 mile loop was HARD!" or "You'll do a 13 mile loop for your first loop, and a 12 mile loop for your second loop.").
"Turtle"
This is simply going slow. I would venture to say EVERY ride has a Turtle award for each distance. This is the person who came in last and sometimes is hotly fought for.
RM-Ride Manager; this is the person or persons who are putting on the ride. Be kind, be courteous and make sure to say THANK YOU to them for doing it. Without them, there'd be no ride.
Vet-Do I Even Need to Cover this?
Scribe-Person who writes on your vet card what the vet tells them to. Be kind and courteous and polite to them as well. They're usually volunteers.
In/Out Timer-These are the people you will call your number out to as you enter camp and when you leave camp. DO NOT FORGET!! Time is very important in this game.
30 miles. Total of 7 hours and 15 minutes to complete your ride with your holds AND get your horse to pulse down.
These distances are considered "LD" or Limited Distance. They are not considered "endurance miles" by AERC. They are kept in a different category than endurance miles.
And, here we go.
50 miles. Total of 12 hours to complete your ride. You have an additional 30 minutes to get your horse to pulse down.
100 miles. Total of 24 hours to complete your ride. You have an additional 30 minutes to get your horse to pulse down.
Now that I've said all that, let me say a few last things as a greenie.
"Ride your own ride."
You can make all the plans you want before a ride. You're going to ride with your friends. You're going to ride alone. You want to set a fast pace. You want to set a slow pace. Whatever your goals are, understand that they can change! Do what is best for you and your HORSE! Is your horse struggling at that fast pace that the front runners set? Slow down!! Walk. Take it easy. Don't override your horse. That's a cardinal sin. Far better to overtime on your horse but come in than to override and have your horse need fluids or collapse or be in distress because you pushed too hard.
"To Finish is to Win"
This is AERC's motto. And I take this one to heart. Did you have to pull due to lameness? Did you turtle your ride? Did you OT? Did you even show UP? You win!
It's a sport. And people are highly competitive. And yet, I've seen people offer assistance and aid to fellow riders. Even when it could potentially cost them their ride, people stop to offer aid or guidance.
Even at my last ride, I spent about 17 miles riding alone. My horse was chugging along, but getting a little tired and bored with being alone. And a 50 mile rider came up, I pulled over to allow her to pass, and she said we were welcome to "draft", which we did for a while, until I determined it was enough for my horse. She continued to ride her ride, and I continued to ride mine.
Believe me, this isn't for everyone. And you'll make mistakes. I have. And I've gone overtime twice (on two different horses). And yet, I've now ridden trails I might not have ridden otherwise. I've shared the experience with two of my favorite 4-legged animals. I've met some amazing human and equine athletes. And I've camped at some pretty places and enjoyed some FANTASTIC meals in ride camps.
4 rides in. I've got the bug.
I hope that this helps. I hope that more experienced endurance riders will drop some useful info in here!!
PS-I have a separate blog post that I'll put up at some point, but...these are blogs (mixed); primarily of Endurance Riders. The first two (the $900 Facebook Pony and She Moved to Texas) are NOT! But the others are, or have an Endurance bent. I also find them to be good and useful resources as well!!
The $900 Facebook Pony
http://the900facebookpony.com/
She Moved to Texas
http://www.shemovedtotexas.com/
Redheaded Endurance
http://redheadedendurance.com/
Endurance Granny
http://endurancegranny.blogspot.com/
It Seemed Like a Good Idea at the Time (Funder's Good Idea)
http://fundersgoodidea.blogspot.com/
What Could Possibly Go Wrong
http://www.agemofahorse.blogspot.com/
Green to 100
https://greento100.wordpress.com/
The Journey to 100 Miles
http://fit2continue.blogspot.com/
Wait for the Jump
http://waitingforthejump.blogspot.com/
Merri Travels
http://merritravels.endurance.net/
Karen's Horse Tails
http://karenshorsetales.blogspot.com/
Motoring Down The Trails
motoringtrails.blogspot.com/
William The Conqueror
https://willstheconqueror.wordpress.com/
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
Armadillo Endurance Ride (Or How I Learned to Love the One I'm With)
What's funny is I have half-written posts here and there that I want to complete and put up.
Half written ride stories from our first, second, third endurance rides.
What's worked for me. What hasn't worked for me. What I'm fumbling with. You know, all that stuff.
So here's another ride story. We shall see if I can get it finished.
This one, however, features an unlikely player. The "dark" horse, if you will. The unsuspecting quiet character who is always there in the background, but who I haven't spoken much of.
My darling Socks. "El Sidar" is his registered name. I know he doesn't come from endurance lines. Let's be honest, he's a backyard bred horse in case I haven't covered this aspect before. His redeeming qualities, while many, are not typey for the Arabian breed.
He is thick and stocky.
He was a stud until 6 years of age, and he DOES have foals on the ground.
He is a beautiful bay horse with 4 high whites, some belly spots and a large blaze (sabino, in fact, though the belly patches qualify him for the pinto association).
He has the kindest, most forgiving personality of ANY horse I've come across.
And he has the kindest, most gentle eyes.
So, I had the first ride of my fall season last weekend. The Armadillo Endurance ride in Kennard, Texas. This butts up against the Davy Crockett National Forest. I've been excited for this ride for months. Everything I've heard said that this ride would be great to bring my slimmer and trimmer Paso Fino to. I was eager to see what I now had for a 30 mile ride.
I had the truck totally loaded on Thursday evening. My clothes packed and in the truck. All I needed to load were my pillows and myself in the morning.
I was up early, took my "last" shower and was out the door by 8 am. Quick Wal-Mart run for ice and a few last minute things, then a hop/skip/jump to Tractor Supply for a bale of hay.
My goal was to be on the road to Kennard by 9:30.
I was at the barn by 9. Which meant I could still make my goal easily. Hooked to the trailer in 5 minutes. Drive to the pen and start loading up my water tank. Rinsed out one of my coolers, and piddled a little bit waiting on my tank.
Figured that as the tank was taking longer than I thought, I'd go grab Strider, load him so that I could turn off the water and go.
I go and grab him, and bring him out of the pen and take him to the trailer to look him over.
And then I saw it. It? Them.
Tears welled in my eyes as I saw two LONG scratches down his back and side. RIGHT where my saddle would sit.
No. Nonononono. This isn't FAIR! Why?!!
"Well," I tried to reason with myself. Maybe it's not so bad? Maybe?
I touched the one closer to his spine. No reaction.
"Well, saddle doesn't sit there...so, maybe....?"
But that second one. Oh that second one.
I touched it. Lightly. And he flinched. Touched it again. Another flinch.
More tears.
I took a photo to send to Holly (my farrier and trusted horsewoman). A second opinion. Though in my heart I knew. And she agreed with my assessment. If he's flinching, no riding.
There I was, in tears. Not mad at my horse, but the situation. Knowing this was our ONLY ride before our potential first shot at a 50 in December.
I called Joe in agony and told him I guess I wasn't going. I was going to scratch and come home. I'd wasted my day off of work.
"Take the old, fat nag," he told me. "What's the worst that can happen? You're already packed and ready to go. At worst, you'll spend the day riding your horse."
"But...but..."
"Just go Erin."
With a sigh, I agreed and grabbed unsuspecting Socks.
And away we drove.
The drive was uneventful, little twisty and windy and some hinky backroads (I apologized a few times when I hit humps in the road that shook the truck; can't imagine how the ride was for him!).
Got to ride camp and knew I wanted to be near some friends who I knew were coming. I actually really liked my campspot for this ride. Near the tree-line, but right at the 50/100 mile finish line and no one near me. Of course, long hike to the potties, but...well, gotta make concessions!!
Got him unloaded and started trying to soak the hay and get him hydrated before vetting in while setting up camp and my portable corral.
We vetted in, all A's except for his jugular refill. That's a little concerning as I always get all A's down the line. Asked one of my trusted friends on how to combat that in the future. "Electrolyte a few days prior to the ride."
Ah. Yes. Would make sense. I hadn't done that and had never thought of doing it before rides. Will be making THAT a part of my ride protocol, that's for sure!!
Other than that, it was attend the ride meeting and make plans on how to ride this ride in the morning. I decided to ride with a friend, which is a fine and noble thing...but on reflection now...the adage is true "Ride your own ride."
So, morning dawns, no big deal. I get saddled up early, Socks is a little confused about what's going on, but he's such a mellow guy, he just settles in and we walk around, milling with the crowd at the start line. I opt to leave this situation as some horses really do get riled up, and the lady I was planning on riding with hadn't yet shown up. Ride over to her trailer, she's still tacking up and it's a few minutes until trail is open.
I'm a little panic'd, but internalize it and think "Well, I usually leave after the front and mid-pack, so we'll be alright."
By the time she's ready, trail has been open for about 15 minutes. As we're leaving, the out timer calls out "You do know trail has been open for a while, right?"
"Yes! Thank you!!!"
And off we go down the trail. It is a gorgeous single track with nice footing (a few roots) through these pine trees. We're having a good time just walking and trotting. We eventually managed to catch up to some of the back of the pack riders and we all fall in together leap-frogging as we go down this wide road.
My friend and I eventually decide we're just going to move on ahead, which we do with ease. Both horses feeling great and moving out beautifully. Socks is having the time of his life.
Look, Socks is the "nag", the "plug", the "babysitter". I put people up on him who want to ride, but are intimidated by speed. He's a horse, so he will occasionally spook, but he's never mean, and never malicious.
But this ride. My goodness, he wanted to canter and trot. Canter and trot. He was having FUN!
Now, here's why you shouldn't chit-chat at ride meeting and actually PAY ATTENTION!!!
This loop was marked with yellow ribbons. However, we're also riding in a national forest, which has permanently marked trails. I vaguely remembered during ride meeting them talking about the permanent markers and that we could follow them.
Wrong. SO MUCH WRONG.
My friend and I are canting down a path and it splits. To the right, trees with yellow diamond markers attached to them. To the left, nothing at all. We mill around for a few minutes and decide that DEFINITELY we should take the right fork and ride on. On we go. Cantering here and there.
And on. And on. Until we get to a real road and a T intersection. And we realize we've seen neither ribbon nor rider in a while.
Oh yeah. We're off trail and not sure where to backtrack too.
Turn around and walk back. Now, we spot the ride photographer and ask him if he has any idea where we need to go. Nope, just keep back tracking.
So we keep back tracking. And run into the intro group of riders. At that fork. However, as we backtrack, we see what we COMPLETELY missed before.
In a bush, there at the fork and hanging low. 3 yellow ribbons. And a trail off to the left....with more yellow ribbons.
SON OF A....UGH!! When the ride was over and I checked Endomondo, we basically added almost 5 miles due to this blunder.
Said good bye to the intro riders and off we tore attempting to make up some time. Completely do-able, we just needed to trot as much as possible. I am nothing else, during a ride, if not a perpetual optimist.
We get back in to camp for our trot-by. Socks trots out just fine; my friend's horse is a little "off", but the vet clears her to ride the next 5 mile loop. We take too long during this time, but eventually get back out on trail, and I keep an eye on her horse as we move out down the single track. I don't SEE anything, and he seems to be moving out fine.
The loop flies back, we get back to camp for our hold. Again, Socks is fine, her horse is still off. He leaves it up to her, and she opts to RO.
I now have 17 miles to do. Alone. I am at the back of the pack and I'm pretty sure I can make up the time.
Cleared after my hold and I hit the trail again. No getting lost, nothing goes wrong.
Well, except down a single track, as Socks and I are cantering along merrily, and all of a sudden, he stumbles and tumbles, and I go flying off.
I lay there on the ground, his reins still in my hands and catch my breath. And think "Oh please oh please oh PLEASE don't let any of the 50's come up on me now. How embarrassing." Thankfully no one does, but I take a few moments to just lay there and assess myself. I know I'm fine, but I know I'll pay hell for the pain in the morning.
Whatever. Let's find a stump and get back on the horse, right? Which I do, after checking HIM over to make sure he's intact and not hurt. Nope. He's fine. Away we go again.
Now, I had my hydration pack on...and it had been working fine most of the day, but I had somehow convinced myself it would work better if I left the top a little bit loose so I could "suck" out of the bladder better. Except, as we get going again, my back starts getting wet.
SHIT!! Did my bladder BREAK? No, I can still get water out of it. But now I'm drenched down my back and into my buttcrack. This sucks. Whatever. Keep riding.
I spend lots of time singing and talking to him. Enjoying the scenery, but I'm a little bored. I don't mind riding alone, but I'm starting to hurt. And a little worried I might run out of water.
But, we keep chugging. He's such a trooper that boy. No horses anywhere in sight or sound, but he keeps going along. I'm a little frustrated there aren't more troughs, but eventually we get to some and he gets a drink. And away we go again.
I can tell he's starting to flag just a bit. I certainly am.
And behind us comes a 50. Now, this is a well-known endurance rider. She rides to win. She has a large stable of horses and always has a GROUP of riders with her. I know she's not always well-liked, but I was so eternally grateful that she saw us and said "Hey, you are more than welcome to tail us for as long as you want or can keep up."
I am sure some of it is she saw we're in different distances...but I am sure some of it is she could see we were wearing down. So we did. Now, Socks can't keep up with a fit as hell Arab, but he trotted for a good long while. A few canter stretches. But they kept pulling further and further away. Which was fine. I'm not going to push. I'd rather OT than hurt my horse. Especially one so plucky and game!!
Somewhere on trail, I started to bonk. It was like I started to fall asleep in the saddle. Hard to explain, but I became just a passenger while Socks continued gamely on trotting as best as he could with a lump on his back. I do so love that boy.
After what seemed forever, we finally come out in the field. I know I'm nearing cut off, but I put on a brave face as we trot by the ride photographer. I know I'm a hot mess in the saddle, but I don't care anymore, I'm done!! 30 miles DONE!!!
I race to the P&R area where I almost fall out of the saddle in pain. My friend who stayed behind happened to be there, so she helped strip tack and then trotted him out for me.
Now, here's where things are weird.
Vet said he was a little off on the trot out. We were also told we came in over time.
But, we earned a completion. Don't ask me HOW. I contacted AERC. I contacted the RM. It's still on my ride record as a completion.
Half written ride stories from our first, second, third endurance rides.
What's worked for me. What hasn't worked for me. What I'm fumbling with. You know, all that stuff.
So here's another ride story. We shall see if I can get it finished.
This one, however, features an unlikely player. The "dark" horse, if you will. The unsuspecting quiet character who is always there in the background, but who I haven't spoken much of.
My darling Socks. "El Sidar" is his registered name. I know he doesn't come from endurance lines. Let's be honest, he's a backyard bred horse in case I haven't covered this aspect before. His redeeming qualities, while many, are not typey for the Arabian breed.
He is thick and stocky.
He was a stud until 6 years of age, and he DOES have foals on the ground.
He is a beautiful bay horse with 4 high whites, some belly spots and a large blaze (sabino, in fact, though the belly patches qualify him for the pinto association).
He has the kindest, most forgiving personality of ANY horse I've come across.
And he has the kindest, most gentle eyes.
So, I had the first ride of my fall season last weekend. The Armadillo Endurance ride in Kennard, Texas. This butts up against the Davy Crockett National Forest. I've been excited for this ride for months. Everything I've heard said that this ride would be great to bring my slimmer and trimmer Paso Fino to. I was eager to see what I now had for a 30 mile ride.
I had the truck totally loaded on Thursday evening. My clothes packed and in the truck. All I needed to load were my pillows and myself in the morning.
I was up early, took my "last" shower and was out the door by 8 am. Quick Wal-Mart run for ice and a few last minute things, then a hop/skip/jump to Tractor Supply for a bale of hay.
My goal was to be on the road to Kennard by 9:30.
I was at the barn by 9. Which meant I could still make my goal easily. Hooked to the trailer in 5 minutes. Drive to the pen and start loading up my water tank. Rinsed out one of my coolers, and piddled a little bit waiting on my tank.
Figured that as the tank was taking longer than I thought, I'd go grab Strider, load him so that I could turn off the water and go.
I go and grab him, and bring him out of the pen and take him to the trailer to look him over.
And then I saw it. It? Them.
Tears welled in my eyes as I saw two LONG scratches down his back and side. RIGHT where my saddle would sit.
No. Nonononono. This isn't FAIR! Why?!!
"Well," I tried to reason with myself. Maybe it's not so bad? Maybe?
I touched the one closer to his spine. No reaction.
"Well, saddle doesn't sit there...so, maybe....?"
But that second one. Oh that second one.
I touched it. Lightly. And he flinched. Touched it again. Another flinch.
More tears.
I took a photo to send to Holly (my farrier and trusted horsewoman). A second opinion. Though in my heart I knew. And she agreed with my assessment. If he's flinching, no riding.
There I was, in tears. Not mad at my horse, but the situation. Knowing this was our ONLY ride before our potential first shot at a 50 in December.
I called Joe in agony and told him I guess I wasn't going. I was going to scratch and come home. I'd wasted my day off of work.
"Take the old, fat nag," he told me. "What's the worst that can happen? You're already packed and ready to go. At worst, you'll spend the day riding your horse."
"But...but..."
"Just go Erin."
With a sigh, I agreed and grabbed unsuspecting Socks.
And away we drove.
The drive was uneventful, little twisty and windy and some hinky backroads (I apologized a few times when I hit humps in the road that shook the truck; can't imagine how the ride was for him!).
Got to ride camp and knew I wanted to be near some friends who I knew were coming. I actually really liked my campspot for this ride. Near the tree-line, but right at the 50/100 mile finish line and no one near me. Of course, long hike to the potties, but...well, gotta make concessions!!
Got him unloaded and started trying to soak the hay and get him hydrated before vetting in while setting up camp and my portable corral.
We vetted in, all A's except for his jugular refill. That's a little concerning as I always get all A's down the line. Asked one of my trusted friends on how to combat that in the future. "Electrolyte a few days prior to the ride."
Ah. Yes. Would make sense. I hadn't done that and had never thought of doing it before rides. Will be making THAT a part of my ride protocol, that's for sure!!
Other than that, it was attend the ride meeting and make plans on how to ride this ride in the morning. I decided to ride with a friend, which is a fine and noble thing...but on reflection now...the adage is true "Ride your own ride."
So, morning dawns, no big deal. I get saddled up early, Socks is a little confused about what's going on, but he's such a mellow guy, he just settles in and we walk around, milling with the crowd at the start line. I opt to leave this situation as some horses really do get riled up, and the lady I was planning on riding with hadn't yet shown up. Ride over to her trailer, she's still tacking up and it's a few minutes until trail is open.
I'm a little panic'd, but internalize it and think "Well, I usually leave after the front and mid-pack, so we'll be alright."
By the time she's ready, trail has been open for about 15 minutes. As we're leaving, the out timer calls out "You do know trail has been open for a while, right?"
"Yes! Thank you!!!"
And off we go down the trail. It is a gorgeous single track with nice footing (a few roots) through these pine trees. We're having a good time just walking and trotting. We eventually managed to catch up to some of the back of the pack riders and we all fall in together leap-frogging as we go down this wide road.
 |
| Ignore the bad riding. No, seriously please. Focus on the pretty pony!! |
Look, Socks is the "nag", the "plug", the "babysitter". I put people up on him who want to ride, but are intimidated by speed. He's a horse, so he will occasionally spook, but he's never mean, and never malicious.
But this ride. My goodness, he wanted to canter and trot. Canter and trot. He was having FUN!
Now, here's why you shouldn't chit-chat at ride meeting and actually PAY ATTENTION!!!
This loop was marked with yellow ribbons. However, we're also riding in a national forest, which has permanently marked trails. I vaguely remembered during ride meeting them talking about the permanent markers and that we could follow them.
Wrong. SO MUCH WRONG.
My friend and I are canting down a path and it splits. To the right, trees with yellow diamond markers attached to them. To the left, nothing at all. We mill around for a few minutes and decide that DEFINITELY we should take the right fork and ride on. On we go. Cantering here and there.
And on. And on. Until we get to a real road and a T intersection. And we realize we've seen neither ribbon nor rider in a while.
Oh yeah. We're off trail and not sure where to backtrack too.
Turn around and walk back. Now, we spot the ride photographer and ask him if he has any idea where we need to go. Nope, just keep back tracking.
So we keep back tracking. And run into the intro group of riders. At that fork. However, as we backtrack, we see what we COMPLETELY missed before.
In a bush, there at the fork and hanging low. 3 yellow ribbons. And a trail off to the left....with more yellow ribbons.
SON OF A....UGH!! When the ride was over and I checked Endomondo, we basically added almost 5 miles due to this blunder.
Said good bye to the intro riders and off we tore attempting to make up some time. Completely do-able, we just needed to trot as much as possible. I am nothing else, during a ride, if not a perpetual optimist.
We get back in to camp for our trot-by. Socks trots out just fine; my friend's horse is a little "off", but the vet clears her to ride the next 5 mile loop. We take too long during this time, but eventually get back out on trail, and I keep an eye on her horse as we move out down the single track. I don't SEE anything, and he seems to be moving out fine.
The loop flies back, we get back to camp for our hold. Again, Socks is fine, her horse is still off. He leaves it up to her, and she opts to RO.
I now have 17 miles to do. Alone. I am at the back of the pack and I'm pretty sure I can make up the time.
Cleared after my hold and I hit the trail again. No getting lost, nothing goes wrong.
Well, except down a single track, as Socks and I are cantering along merrily, and all of a sudden, he stumbles and tumbles, and I go flying off.
I lay there on the ground, his reins still in my hands and catch my breath. And think "Oh please oh please oh PLEASE don't let any of the 50's come up on me now. How embarrassing." Thankfully no one does, but I take a few moments to just lay there and assess myself. I know I'm fine, but I know I'll pay hell for the pain in the morning.
Whatever. Let's find a stump and get back on the horse, right? Which I do, after checking HIM over to make sure he's intact and not hurt. Nope. He's fine. Away we go again.
Now, I had my hydration pack on...and it had been working fine most of the day, but I had somehow convinced myself it would work better if I left the top a little bit loose so I could "suck" out of the bladder better. Except, as we get going again, my back starts getting wet.
SHIT!! Did my bladder BREAK? No, I can still get water out of it. But now I'm drenched down my back and into my buttcrack. This sucks. Whatever. Keep riding.
I spend lots of time singing and talking to him. Enjoying the scenery, but I'm a little bored. I don't mind riding alone, but I'm starting to hurt. And a little worried I might run out of water.
But, we keep chugging. He's such a trooper that boy. No horses anywhere in sight or sound, but he keeps going along. I'm a little frustrated there aren't more troughs, but eventually we get to some and he gets a drink. And away we go again.
I can tell he's starting to flag just a bit. I certainly am.
And behind us comes a 50. Now, this is a well-known endurance rider. She rides to win. She has a large stable of horses and always has a GROUP of riders with her. I know she's not always well-liked, but I was so eternally grateful that she saw us and said "Hey, you are more than welcome to tail us for as long as you want or can keep up."
I am sure some of it is she saw we're in different distances...but I am sure some of it is she could see we were wearing down. So we did. Now, Socks can't keep up with a fit as hell Arab, but he trotted for a good long while. A few canter stretches. But they kept pulling further and further away. Which was fine. I'm not going to push. I'd rather OT than hurt my horse. Especially one so plucky and game!!
Somewhere on trail, I started to bonk. It was like I started to fall asleep in the saddle. Hard to explain, but I became just a passenger while Socks continued gamely on trotting as best as he could with a lump on his back. I do so love that boy.
After what seemed forever, we finally come out in the field. I know I'm nearing cut off, but I put on a brave face as we trot by the ride photographer. I know I'm a hot mess in the saddle, but I don't care anymore, I'm done!! 30 miles DONE!!!
 |
| We're done!! Ignore my ugly and bad riding! |
Now, here's where things are weird.
Vet said he was a little off on the trot out. We were also told we came in over time.
But, we earned a completion. Don't ask me HOW. I contacted AERC. I contacted the RM. It's still on my ride record as a completion.
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