Sandhills Spring Fling Ride Story 2014
After
such a great 50 mile completion at Red Barn Run, Eli and I opted to do a
fun 25 mile ride two weeks later at Sandhills Spring Fling. This ride
takes place at the gorgeous H. Cooper Black Recreation Area in Patrick,
SC. This was the site of the AERC National Championship ride a few years
ago. The forecast was calling for a high temperature of 81 degrees with
a "real feel" of 86. On ride day, I was very glad that we had opted for
the shorter distance. I was already overheating by noon.
Waiting to head out....
Looks like I'm adjusting stirrups!
Eli
vetted through the pre-ride vet check with a pulse of 42 and all As on
his vet card. We chatted with old friends and new. We happened to be
camped next to Penny Markle who had contacted us on Facebook about
Standardbreds and I spent some time talking to her about our horses, New
Vocations and what to expect when she competes with her standie for the
first time in the fall. Eli stood patiently and graciously allowed us
to continue our conversation and admire his demeanor. I hope to stay in touch with Penny and see her boy on the endurance trail.
On
ride morning, Eli knew just what was happening. We were competing in a
field of 53 horses. Sandhills is known for two things, deep sand and big
hills. Many come to this ride thinking it will be easy because it is
not in the mountains but looks can be deceiving. This is actually one of
the toughest rides in our region. There is a great deal of sand that
can cause lameness problems if you do not ride smart. We started off in
mid-pack. I had my hands full on the first loop and we struggled to get
into a comfortable zone away from other horses. He is always well
mannered but he relaxes better when he can't spot horses up ahead of
him. We came in to the first vet check in just under 2 hours for a 15
mile loop. He vetted through like a champ and we settled into our crew
area in some shady pine trees.
Photo by Becky Pearman: First loop
The
second loop was only 10 miles and we went out alone and rode alone for
most of the loop. The trail was lovely with a mix of sandy dirt roads
and some fun single track. We just took it easy and I let him cruise at
his nice trot for most of the loop. We met a very nice lady on a paint
horse. Her name was Heather Wilkerson and she had some questions for me
about Eli and New Vocations. She commented on how steady and forward Eli
was and she was very interested in standardbreds. I'm also staying in
touch with her on Facebook.
Walking out of camp nicely on the second loop!
Heading out on the second loop....much more relaxed! Photo by Becky Pearman
I'm very proud of his performance this spring and we have talked to so many people about New Vocations and the great attributes of Standardbreds.
Until next time!
PS. Eli is getting ready to try out the new Easyshoe by Easycare. Stay tuned for the results!
