Mounted search and rescue

[ALLEN SNYDER <allendana1@sbcglobal.net>]

I agree with Irv to some degree that it is best if the size and disposition of the rider and mount are matched somewhat.  Although some breeds can carry more weight, it is not best for long-term soundness and performance to have too large a rider on a small mount.  The humane issue also needs to be considered.

 

Then there is the physical "soundness" of the rider which I think about more at age 50 than I used to.  It is much easier to get on and off a 15.3 quarter horse that is stout enough to take up a long leg and easily balance upon rather than my old 17 h. thoroughbred.  The TB does not stand as patiently and it would be difficult to put an injured person or passenger  upon should need arise.

--- On Tue, 5/12/09, Una Smith <una.smith@att.net> wrote:

From: Una Smith <una.smith@att.net>
Subject: Re: [MSAR] gaited horses for sar
To: "Mounted search and rescue" <msar-riders@lists.ibiblio.org>
Date: Tuesday, May 12, 2009, 6:46 PM

This is a general comment, addressed to no one in particular, about 
our current debate, "gaited, good or bad?"

MSAR-Riders has had this particular debate before.  I suppose it is
a debate our community needs to repeat now and then, so new members
learn what others have learned before them.  That is:  what matters
is the performance of the individual horse and rider.  Focus on the
individual performance requirements necessary for mounted SAR.  Most
stereotypes are irrelevant and can be ignored.

Speaking of sterotypes, we haven't had another popular debate here
in a while:  "tall or short horse, which is better?"

	Una
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