driving for pleasure not acceptable on this list?

[MySparrow]

Recently I received a private message from someone who felt that this list was for CDE, ADT and other highly competitive drivers, not for non-competitive or "only pleasure show" drivers.

I've been thinking about it, and I decided to share the question with the group.

Never have I felt anything but welcome here, and the wealth of information, the open doors, the friendship and camraderie have been priceless for me for the last year.

Here in Mississippi our competitive organization, the Gulf Coast Whips, is still recovering from Katrina. Locally, Dr. Bob Cook, former head of the CAA, tells me that most of his gang are getting pretty retired now. The closest competition I've found is the Nashoba Classic, up in Tennessee, and it's apparently a pleasure and dressage show. If I want to compete, that's where I'll go.

Meanwhile, however, I'm doing a lot of driving, and without the expertise available here on this forum I wouldn't be nearly so safe nor so happy. Yesterday I caught a break between welcome but very enthusiastic rainstorms to put Sparrow to the easy-entry cart, and loaded up my visiting brother and my 84-year-old mother for a little afternoon drive. My brother, who learned to drive teams as I did when we were in our teens, asked how I'd managed to retain my skills and become "so competent" (He's my baby brother, I'm supposed to dazzle him :D). My answer was, "Books, practice, and a particular driving forum on the Internet." That's how important this forum is to me.

So let me say to anyone who is lurking and afraid to post -- don't be! You are welcome, and we value your experience and perspective!!!!!

Open arms --

Dale

[War Admiral]

The *bulk* of people here do CDE's, but that's true everywhere, in real life, IMO.

HRH Avery is retired from the show ring, and has only gone for little wanders down the road a piece in harness for the last couple of years. (Verdict is still out on whether he'll still be able to do even that since latest injury - just have to wait and see!) So we are most definitely in the Recreational Driving clique!

I value the expertise of loads of people on this forum and learn a lot when I ask questions and try to help where I can. Hopefully other lurkers will be brave, de-lurk, and do the same!

[ZELLA]

I love the process of preparing for a competition, be it CDE or pleasure show, and part of that is because I spend so much time just driving through the countryside as preparation for the competitive goals. It has never occurred to me that the pure pleasure of driving should be any more or less valid due to a competitive goal, or lack thereof.

I went for a beautiful drive this morning, just me and the pony enjoying the sunshine, the breeze, and a magnificent blue heron we passed on the way. We were totally in the moment, as I think any driver would have been. That the drive also happened to serve as conditioning for CDE was completely beside the point. I think whoever PM'd you was being silly.

[MySparrow]

I hope my PM-er is listening!

It delights me that so many people here are competitive. It's the competitive people who push the edges of the envelope and develop the new technologies, who keep the knowledge of the old stuff alive and who lead the way into a continually evolving body of information. It's a huge benefit to me to have those people available as a resource. And if I ever do get to competing, I'll be so much richer because of this forum!

Thanks, all.

[pricestory]

Maybe those of us that compete are just more vocal, but I enjoy reading all the post and find I frequently learn something new.
For me competing is a measure of what I am learning and how we are improving. It helps me focus and work to be a better driver for me and for Poppins. It is kind of like taking lesson, even if you don't compete. Becoming a better partner for you equine is what it is all about. The competition is my report card.
Sorry if someone didn't feel welcome.

[kearleydk]

Whew, I'd say that PM came from WAY out in left field.

I enjoy this list BECAUSE it is eclectic. I DON"T post anymore to the Rec Driving list because Rob Johnson goes on SUCH a rant every time those 3 little letters come up and on the other hand I don't use the CDL list because I'm not a competitor.

Let's keep it open. We learn from all directions.

Dick

[Thomas_1]

Erm and was this PM from a grown up???

Dare I suggest that anyone so insecure they feel "intimated" and afraid to post by folks who have no physical presence or actual ability to affect them in any way probably needs to have a discussion with a health care professional?

I'm too long in the tooth to learn how to suffer fools gladly and whether someone posts or not is of no importance! However if they lack the guts and fortitude to even start posting I sincerely wonder how the heck they're going to survive if anyone ever disagrees with them.

This forum has one of the most active driving sections of any I've discovered to date. Its got an eclectic bunch of individuals with wide and varied experience.

IMO its good for knowledge and experience sharing and sometimes just for having a jolly good read and a laugh and banter with others who share a hobby.

How the heck anyone thought it was dominated by highly competitive HDT (CDE) drivers is beyond my understanding. Its certainly not the impression I'd got.

However even if that were the case, you never know Miss or Mr Anonymous just might well find that interesting or informative or useful. But it seems we'll never know because they're going to just read rather than post.

However I'm a little concerned that whoever this person is, they're likely to be disappointed if they go to any internet forum as many posters tend to tell it like it is.

Perhaps they should just grow some hide or put up or shut up??

[pricestory]

Thomas, you often make me laugh, frequently give me new information and very often confirm what I already knew. Thanks. This time, you made me laugh.

[goodhors]

Whew, I'd say that PM came from WAY out in left field.

I enjoy this list BECAUSE it is eclectic. I DON"T post anymore to the Rec Driving list because Rob Johnson goes on SUCH a rant every time those 3 little letters come up and on the other hand I don't use the CDL list because I'm not a competitor.

Let's keep it open. We learn from all directions.

Dick

I used to be on that Group as well. Have to say I am one of the folks who got RJ frothing at the mouth about CDE. When I countered his arguments logically, factually, he just kept repeating himself on the horrors of CDE and the ladies who know him got rather irate that I didn't agree. How many time can you repeat yourself before it quits being fun? Not worth that much argument. They wanted to be his good followers to blend in. Plus I don't have a cool accent when I write. This was quite a while ago.

I did get some interesting stuff from Barb Lee, gave her some ideas to try in her endless adjustments of equipment for her long-distance driving. RJ just made it un-fun.

I also enjoy this group for the diversity, ways it makes me think. I think we all get much pleasure from just being out driving, whether we go on to compete or not as Zella said. Ideas from many make us better in our choices, more apt to take a wider look at a problem we encounter with horse, vehicle or situation. This learning all helps make us better drivers, with horses benefiting.

[HackneyHorseDriver]

Any place where you have more then one horse person you will get differing options. The key is in listening and sorting through it all. The PM is out of line and uncalled for. Most drivers start out as recreational before ever thinking of moving into a show ring.

I too belong to other lists, but I like the Coth, as it has a varied group of drivers that ARE willing to exchange experiences. I drive every day and do so because I truely love the sport of carriage driving in all facets. It is also finally my full time job and I love teaching people and horses with SAFETY always top priority. Showing is always a test of our training at home, the ribbon is just a bonus. Believe me with the breed I show you learn to smile, laugh a little, and enjoy the experience. :winkgrin:

Our driving community is loosing alot of the old guard, which is sad. We would be smarter to take notes while we can for some day we may be wishing we had. This all comes from sharing experiences. So don't be afraid to ask a question or to answer if you can. Be willing to listen to all sides and ask more questions if something is still unclear. The driving world is very different in the styles and equines driven but one can always learn something new.

Trot on,
Denise

[CDE Driver]

I compete in CDE's, that is what I do. I drive five a day, some getting ready to compete, some are for their owners pleasure. While I enjoy what I do immensely, it's not for "pleasure". I would find another job if I didn't love it.
That said, I can't tell you how much I enjoy the accounts you all write about your pleasure driving exploits.
The grand estates and park lands available to you on the East Coast are wonderful. The pleasure drives around the country sound like a blast. Just hooking and tootling around is good for the soul.
At the risk of sounding snarky, tell your PM'r to stick a cork in it!!!

[horseyfolks]

Well, I would have to say that 99% of what I write concerns CDEs. The other 1% is either getting ready for one or getting home from one.

It's not that we dislike other forms of driving, its just that right now, CDEs are what we do.

I would never try to intimidate or keep someone off this forum through my support of CDEs or my lack of support for other styles of driving. If I have come across this way than shame on the rest of you for not pointing it out to me :yes::cool:.

On top of that, I enjoy all the other posts here as well as my own.

Tell the PMer to give it a shot.... he/she will probably enjoy it.

Don

[chitowncd]

I refer to myself as an "Urban" CDE'er. AKA commercial carriage driver. I used to post my stories many moons ago on the CD-L, but as it became more centered towards CDEs, I stopped. It's still a great resource, lots of great people there that have been there since the beginning, but I found myself out of relevance to most of the discussions that were going on.

This forum is about driving. It reflects the fact that there's a common element here which many people enjoy differing facets of.

[Trakehner]

Ahhh, the joy of youth and a small mind...not knowing who the person was deciding the tone and "use" of the driving forum...my guess is a limited horse experience person, not much riding (or not a very high standard rider), afraid to enjoy their horse as just a horse and very very insecure as shown by "you do this or you're not a real whip".

As I said, so cute when the weenies come out to play.

I showed all sorts of fun stuff under saddle (in the US and Europe)...I took up driving to be a beginner again and to share horses with friends who didn't ride. I do compete in driving...big deal. I prefer pleasure drives, picnics, going out with friends and introducing people to the fun of carriages. I've only got two competition carriages (both Kuhnle) and 3 pleasure carriages (3-Spring Surrey, Dr. Buggy and Meadowbrook)...the surrey is everyone's favorite.

Never worry about the insecure driving weenies...their noise is like a cow pissing on a flat rock.

[Thomas_1]

Never worry about the insecure driving weenies...their noise is like a cow pissing on a flat rock. :lol: And there goes my malt whiskey on the keyboard :eek:

Why don't you just say what you think :lol::winkgrin:

Sooooo descriptive and I must remember that one.... I'll file it next to "as meaningless as distant mouse flatulence" :winkgrin:

[Just My Style]

Whoever sent you that message needs to crawl back in their hole and stay there. I haven't even started driving. (Took lessons years back and was now ready to re-open that chapter of my life.) I have been on this BB since 1999 and have lurked in this forum since the day they started it. I have learned a lot. I have asked a lot of questions. Some probably really dumb, but I never felt like I shouldn't be here. In fact, one of the reasons I am so drawn to driving is that the people (IMHO) are the nicest in the equine world. That mean person just needs to get a life. :yes:

[carriage driver]

I think that if you drive a carriage and are having fun that is what it is all about.What is happing to the driving world!

[Thomas_1]

Nothing that I noticed though clearly there's something in someone's mind

[LostFarmer]

I guess I am one of rebel voices. I certainly do enjoy driving and learning of some of the stuff outside of my box of understanding. I have been told off in repeated PM's for posting about horsepulls, tire therapy, work as a training aid and numerous other topics. I have found other boards that discuss the type of driving I participate in. I refuse to say that one form of driving is better or worse than the other. Different and done with different outlays of capital but all take time and skill. So I have decided that I will be more selective in the posts I reply to and it will be rare that I start a post and even more rare to share a picture.

I wouldn't call this board unfriendly as much arrogant. LF

[kearleydk]

LF I had no idea you getting flamed privately. I am sad to hear you are slipping to the shadows. Your point of view is always refreshing to me. You are definately the minority here but many times you have been spot on with your comments.

I'll have to go to the Porch more often to keep track of you

[Cartfall]

One of the reasons I post here is that all types of driving seemed welcome. When I first came here 5 or 6 years ago I was welcomed and cautioned to not push my young horse. Oh, so well, those words of advice served me--I now have an excellent young horse starting his job--driving in whatever venue comes our way --trail driving or competitive events.

I personally find it pretty pathetic when someone must PM petty messages that they are unwilling to post on the public forum.

[MySparrow]

I LOVE your pictures and your posts! You're part of the variety and richness of this forum. I hate that anyone's attacking you in any regard, especially if they've seen your happy, healthy, beautiful ponies enjoying their work in harness. Please just ignore the naysayers and stay here where we need you!

Dale

I guess I am one of rebel voices. I certainly do enjoy driving and learning of some of the stuff outside of my box of understanding. I have been told off in repeated PM's for posting about horsepulls, tire therapy, work as a training aid and numerous other topics. I have found other boards that discuss the type of driving I participate in. I refuse to say that one form of driving is better or worse than the other. Different and done with different outlays of capital but all take time and skill. So I have decided that I will be more selective in the posts I reply to and it will be rare that I start a post and even more rare to share a picture.

I wouldn't call this board unfriendly as much arrogant. LF

[Thomas_1]

I have been told off in repeated PM's for posting about horsepulls, tire therapy, work as a training aid and numerous other topics. :eek: Never?? By the same person? By several people?? Lots of times??

If someone did disagree then why are they telling you in PM rather than having an open discussion on the forum?

Smacks of a spineless coward to me!!!! If someone doesn't have the guts to post on the open forum if they're seeing something they disagree with then they don't have my respect and I'd suggest if that's the case that you merely dismiss that person/s lack of testicular fortitude with the contempt it deserves.

And you know I don't use tyres as part of training - but then I have light harness horses and as such IME dragging dead weight plays no useful part or purpose and can actually be a disadvantage.

However you also know I've very specifically said that they can, do and should indeed have a part to play in training a heavy harness horse for agricultural work.

So I invite the person/s who PM'd you to either come out now to profer their opinions and views. Or else PM me so I can tell them directly they're a spinless witless coward!

Oh I think I just did that :winkgrin:

[Wowelsh]

I barely consider myself a driver (let alone a "competitive" one), yet every time I've posted any update or piece of drivel here, I've received nothing but support and well wishing.

The only people I've seen who've been set back on their haunches here, are those who think they can hook their horse/pony to a $175 vehicle, with a $50 harness, with no training/assistance, and want the members here to tell them how wonderful they're doing. :no:

[War Admiral]

Let me just add, in defense of LF's position, that there used to be a LOT of pokeyfunmaking and putdowns of breed show ring driving here, as well. But what I've noticed is that all it really takes is for one or two people who DO choose to drive "a different way", who know their stuff (or in my case, at least more or less know their stuff :D) to defend their position and demonstrate that they do understand why they do what they do, and show that they understand and respect other driving traditions and styles too, and people back off.

NOTHING floats my boat more than a really great Fine Harness horse, NOTHING. I have stood in awe and admiration of a really well-turned out 4-in-hand doing the Olympic Rings at Georgia (back when they still *did* the Olympic Rings and *had* a Georgia... 'nother story entirely), but I've never had one bring tears to my eyes the way, say, Sir William Robert or It's Hammertime did. And I do completely understand WHY some people don't like it, I really do. These would NOT be the horses, harnesses, or vehicles you would pick for a quick spin down the road a piece or thru the hazards! :lol: But they work to their specific, intended purpose, and that purpose is a 150-year tradition over here, and I love it. It's different from the norm, but taken for what it is, it's something spectacular. As long as you don't try to make it into something else. :winkgrin:

So I vote that our lurking PM'er should be brave and step out, hold his or her ground, and see what happens! :yes:

[Ginger]

MySparrow, just another semi-lurker who sincerely hopes this forum welcomes pleasure drivers. I don't compete and have no intentions of competing, but I respect those who do. I enjoy reading the banter on the site. You can always learn something from someone. It seems like a pretty good mix of driving types to me. Happy driving!

[Tamara in TN]

Whew, I'd say that PM came from WAY out in left field.

I enjoy this list BECAUSE it is eclectic. I DON"T post anymore to the Rec Driving list because Rob Johnson goes on SUCH a rant every time those 3 little letters come up and on the other hand I don't use the CDL list because I'm not a competitor.

Let's keep it open. We learn from all directions.

Dick

I left the CDL list two years ago...(I actually cannot figure out how to unsubscribe so I have it auto deleted as it arrives) partially over some horse's tail getting set on fire and a bunch loonies talking about that aftermath and partially because I was told about 4 seperate times that "farmers and their war wagon were not wanted on this list"....

it was also part of the reason that despite 400-600 acres of easily traveled, horse friendly, drivable land,one hour from two major interstates we decided against ever having a drive up here (for pleasure or competition) us farmers will just keep our farm land to ourselves and our friends....thank you very much :mad:

I enjoy it here...mostly because I'm secretly in love with Thomas :winkgrin: and there is much less the "oh how important we are" attitude than every where else....

Tamara in TN

[Trakehner]

"farmers and their war wagon were not wanted on this list"....

What's a "war wagon"?

I've only heard large x-country carriages called war wagons. I've gotta' admit, I call the really big Budweiser types of vehicles "circus wagons"....but that's not an insult, it's where these things are typically seen besides a big driving show.

I also didn't know "Farmer" was a derogatory term (I was a dairy farm kid).

I think people are WAY too sensitive about what and how they drive on both sides.

[Tamara in TN]

"farmers and their war wagon were not wanted on this list"....

What's a "war wagon"?

I've only heard large x-country carriages called war wagons. I've gotta' admit, I call the really big Budweiser types of vehicles "circus wagons"....but that's not an insult, it's where these things are typically seen besides a big driving show.

I also didn't know "Farmer" was a derogatory term (I was a dairy farm kid).

I think people are WAY too sensitive about what and how they drive on both sides.

a war wagon is a junker...something cobbled together with string and wire and certainly not suitable for "real" driving....

Tamara in TN

[horses-n-hounds]

I am a lurker on this fourm. I someday hope to learn to drive, I have always always wanted to.
But...I have my plate full and not many horses here that would be good prospects...lots of OTTB. :cool:(learned that here;))
I love this form because it seems so much more laid back and nice compared to many of the other ones on this board.
I love Lost Farmer!! I look for your posts and secretly have you on my buddy list...great I'm starting to sound like a stalker :lol:
Please don't go away!!!
If some looser :mad:is bothering you in pm, then block them!!!!
You have great advice and it is really valuable to those of us who share your outlook on some things in life. I have learned a lot that I like from your posts, and while I may not agree with everything you say, so what? We all should take the good for us and our situation and leave the rest. I think that for a whole bunch of lurkers and others too, that you have quite a bit to share that we would like to "take with us"!!
Please don't go?!!!
*goes back to the shadows, hoping that LF doesn't come along*

I just re read the beginning of this thread an all I have to say is that if MySparrow is getting it too, then it is obviously just some gutless looser like Thomas said. I will just have a hissy fit if LF and MY Sparrow let this looser affect their posts.
Nothing like an unknown lurker coming out of the shadows to have a major hissy fit. :)

[RU2U]

YAYA - war wagon are usually what I see trotting down the road in my neighborhood. The amish are very creative around here and you often see them hauling whole "houses" down the road on a flat wagon. You really never know what you'll see when you look out the window, but it does make for interesting dinner conversation.

I like this forum, I never posted on any other driving forums (or any other forum for that matter), hey when you have found the best - why go elsewhere? I am impressed by the knowledge of the people on this forum, it was very interesting just reading the logistics (something no one ever mentioned to me when discussing driving) of how things work, and why they work in the driving threads (I even enjoyed the thread on the mule hitch - more interesting dinner conversation!). Its also interesting to see the different opinions of how its done. We are all trying to get to that same place with our horses - whether its the perfect competition or the perfect trail ride, but I think that we all have the same goal.

I think what is really cool is the people are alot alike too. Most of us seem to have 20-30 years experience with horses...if I haven't seen it well maybe Sparrow or LF has, that kind of insight is priceless. The level of "most" horse people around here is better than most - we know what we are talking about, so its easier to go on from there, to a little bit more higher level.

Thanks to all of you for the help you've given me with me and mine :)

[LostFarmer]

My version of a war wagon is a beater that is practically indestructible to be used in the training of green horses. I have a wagon built on an old car frame modified to be a 5th wheel. It is a great ride on a rough trail. It is long on ugly and practical. I guess that defines the driving I do. Make it fun, safe as possible, and affordable. I started driving with a patched together harness, a home built sleigh out of snowmobile skis, and a borrowed forecart. I was into driving less than $2000 and that included the horses. I have since upgraded and purchased my own but I am still into efficiency and effective leaving the looks to the turnout Nazis.

I won't leave entirely but I will and have been more selective in my posts. It isn't that I am offended or even that upset, I get tired of trying to have a battle of wits with the unarmed. :winkgrin: LF

[Thomas_1]

I enjoy it here...mostly because I'm secretly in love with Thomas erm... I don't know whether to be flattered or to head for the hills!?? :eek:

A photo could help me decide :winkgrin:

I also didn't know "Farmer" was a derogatory term In that case I've been insulted more than I thought! Whatever though... I'm proud to grow the nations food.:yes:

a war wagon is a junker...something cobbled together with string and wire and certainly not suitable for "real" driving.... We've probably all seen something similar at some point in time.

My proper start to driving was VERY basic: When I was 9 I built myself a "bogey cart". Planks of wood were nailed between two sets of pramwheels. Rope reins were fastened to the front axle for steerage and mine was 'posh' as it had a wooden box nailed to the planks so that it had a seat!

I spent much time careering down the steep hills where I lived. Getting back up though was a pain in the backside until I discovered that I could encourage the old and too-tolerant dales pony to run up and down the fence line with us and then when we were at the bottom tying the bogey round it to haul me and my friend back up again.

Now of course my parents never knew that we did this and had they known we'd have got an old fashioned clip round the ear and one day the thing we feared happened. We got caught! And by an ancient man who I thought must be over 100! Who said "nah then lad if tha wants to do that tha should do it proper". I also seem to well recall him asking if my father knew we had the pony out :no::eek: The man was Thomas Holgate, Professional Coachman and I spent every holiday after that learning how to drive.

Since then I've been called everything from a gypsy and hawker to a rich toff (and probably the one that creased my wife most was when I was called "cool" by a group of teenage boys) when I've been driving and you know I don't give a damn.

The world of horses contains many folks who think that what they do has got to be the be all and end all. But there's also plenty who are genuine all round horse-men and horse-women who have more open minds and many and varied interests.

I've driven from the flashy to the trashy - though never with bling brow bands :winkgrin: With Princes and with paupers and I don't give 2 hoots for what others think about what I do because its what I enjoy, doesn't do anyone else any harm and I'm a grown up with a sense of perspective about what's important.

If someone tells me my carriage looks crap and my horse is ugly then so what, its certainly not going to rock my world.

[horseyfolks]

See that! Up until now, the only "War Wagons" I was aware of were flying around marathon courses and zig zagging through hazards :eek::yes::lol:;);)!

Don

[Tamara in TN]

erm... I don't know whether to be flattered or to head for the hills!?? :eek:

A photo could help me decide :winkgrin:

.

http://www.productionacres.com/photo_gallery.htm

10th pic in series...cleaned up for the hunt ball

Tamara in TN

[2DogsFarm]

Obviously your PMer can't read
I am a total newbie to driving and never have any of my postings on this forum been snarkily answered.
Even the dumbest, most-obviously-uninformed ones
If novice pleasure drivers were not well received here I would have been booted with my first post!

[Thomas_1]

I am a total newbie to driving and never have any of my postings on this forum been snarkily answered.
Even the dumbest, most-obviously-uninformed ones
If novice pleasure drivers were not well received here I would have been booted with my first post! Hey did I miss something?

Where was it :lol::winkgrin:

[hundredacres]

This is my favorite board on COTH. I read here every single day as long as there is something new to read.

I'm taking a rare lesson here and there with a friend, but I don't even drive my own horses!.

I plan to though. I ground drive for now :).

I'm sucking up every bit of info I can and hoping the planets align so I can purchase the equipment I'll need to hook up one of the ponies and possibly my STB mare (not too sure about her though)....in the meantime I take "lessons" with a friend and help her in any way I can so I can learn whatever comes up. At some point I'd love more formal lessons.

But I will continue to read and occassionaly bounce my questions off the members here. I've never been treated badly here and I'm far from an experienced driver.

[goeslikestink]

Lf i dont post here very often but i love comming to this part of coth
becuase i can learn - i used to drive an old shetland cross for fun and i am taking it up again with a sec b as hes to small so i am working him on the long rein and i will admit i am not the best perhaps but it its fun and you can take your friends out who dont ride or of whom are a bit weary of horses and ponies in general but even though i dont drive at the moment and i would never consider myself as a proffesional i have learn in my equesterian dispalines that i have been to or seen or done or taken part in that driving people are one of the nicest bunch you can meet or write with and i personally beleive
perhaps maybe short sightness i dont know that with driving you have to have a bit of everything in order to compete at at top level
as in dressage, schooling, fitness, exercise,roads and non roads eventing, etc
its a sport that constantly has your mind active didnt realise it before perhaps
but do so now its fun with the frills and spills and knowledge


lf - dont go speak up becuase every bit of knowlegde or past histories
is all something we can learn from the good and the bad becuase how can we come good or how can we learn from mistakes or the bad to become good
if someones pm--ing people then they havent got the wise book of knowledge that says

look and learn ----

i also enjoy your post Lf and sparrow and your opnions views etc are valid
i sometimes get pm for being harsh or outspoken or not understood becuase
i have trouble with content or context and have pm's from time to time
i beleive everybody does but thats life some people you can please and others you cant

you cant not make freinds with everyone or be liked by all its the way life goes

all you can do is learn by things be it expreince or expreicences

i come here to read what i am doing with my pony is the right way
so far still long lineing and not ready yet as hes to fast but hes comming down to my way of thinking and i dont care how long it takes gentle gentle with this little boy hes 8 and has been with people that have scared him to death with things being tied to him - as in tin cans etc etc
to make him go forwards which he did as such a high speed
but he learnt now to walk and trot on the lunge line purely by long lineing him

iam keeping this boy as he wont get a home ridden so i am determined
he will have a job to do as a driving pony for myself and i dont care how
long it takes me to get him there.

[Drive NJ]

We've been out of touch for a few days and come back to THIS kind of posting -

Dang - if it wasnt for the VARIETY of people posting on this forum about the VARIETY of driving experiences and turnouts and questions then we would not be still reading this forum

I LIKE the people and the general attitude of acceptance -at least what shows on the surface

I feel like I am friends with a whole group of people I have never met face to face

That was one of our fun experiences THIS WEEKEND - meeting someone in person we've known on-line for several years (from another forum)

If this COTH driving forum was only CDE we would NOT be bothering to read it most of the time

MySparrow and Lost Farmer and anyone else who has had to deal with this type of PM comment - I'm really sorry you had to experience that type of rude and insular person, but I hope you dont give up on the rest of us who just want to enjoy the camraderie of other driving (of any kind) enthusiasts

Post On!

[Cherry]

Geeze, I hope this forum is for pleasure driving! I used to be on another recreational driving board but not more than a couple posts out was ripped a new one by the owner of the list, so I never went back.... :eek: Who needs it???

I'm shocked to hear that My Sparrow and Lost Farmer have been treated the way they have! Who sent those PMs???? Did ya'll report the person who sent the PMs to a moderator??? It's never too late you know!!!! :winkgrin:

I crave diversity in all things! :yes: That's how we learn and, hopefully, become more interesting people. :) Viva la difference! :lol:

[Drive NJ]

"I crave diversity in all things! :yes: That's how we learn and, hopefully, become more interesting people. :) Viva la difference! :lol:"

You said it Cherry. We love ALL aspects of the sport, but find those forums who limit themselves to a single aspect soon become boring.

There is so much we can learn from each other

[slc2]

well after all the self congratulatory posts are done, i do think this forums is too hard on beginners and people who ask basic questions, they are treated like idiots here far too often. and i think there's a lot of room for improvement in that. lost farmer and others who don't do the same type of driving have a lot to add - so do beginners, even dumb ones who are trying to do it with a 50 dollar harness. you can work on your presentation to them, a bit, i'd say.

[katarine]

SLC2, are you for real? The first time I made a suggestion on your precious dressage board, I got slapped down by fellow poster. I responded and let it be known she'd hurt my feelings when she could have just corrected me or argued her point more politely

You PM'ed me and asked me 'why do you have to be so f***ing sensitive??' That was it, nice huh?

yeah, you are a real sweetie there, SLC2. Really kind.

[Thomas_1]

And in SLC2 there's the exception that proves the rule!


The only people I've seen who've been set back on their haunches here, are those who think they can hook their horse/pony to a $175 vehicle, with a $50 harness, with no training/assistance, and want the members here to tell them how wonderful they're doing. :no:
No one was self-congratulating and it seems you've veered the matter off topic.

Now normally I'm a big fan of "if you don't like it, don't read it". But there's also something to be said for observing the social norms and trying to go with the flow, rather than against it. Just as in real life, when a newbie person is trying to walk in and ask something and then tells folks who are there that they're wrong, it causes conflict, controversy, trainwrecks and increase in popcorn sales on a Forum Board.

And thinking that's the way to carry on doesn't make sense or have rhyme nor reason to the majority.

If you don't want to have folks jumping on you then when those who are experienced say that what you're doing just doesn't seem to make sense, then might I suggest that it would be a good idea to take heed and consider rather than argue and be rude and dismissive. Alternatively if you have so many opinions as a novice and don't actually want advice then do not originate so many nonsensicle threads. Rather you might find that it's slightly easier you could just chip in and contribute to other threads and perhaps also put everyone whose posts you don't like on ignore or don't respond to them. And the idea of actually trying to appreciate why folks with real experience, disagree will take you far.

Trust me.

[Thomas_1]

Too Simple,

You've clearly forgotten that my name is Tom to my friends and Thomas to you.

You've clearly caught be out and demonstrably I don't know a thing about long reining and driving. And I still can't wait to see all those photos of your ground driving and long reining so I can see and understand just how it should be done and what the difference is.

[hundredacres]

SLC2, are you for real? The first time I made a suggestion on your precious dressage board, I got slapped down by fellow poster. I responded and let it be known she'd hurt my feelings when she could have just corrected me or argued her point more politely

You PM'ed me and asked me 'why do you have to be so f***ing sensitive??' That was it, nice huh?

yeah, you are a real sweetie there, SLC2. Really kind.

LOL...I had the same thing happen to me! It was a couple years ago and I literally stopped cominghere for some time thanks to the nastiness that was in part shelled out by slc! Yeah...real nice!

[hitchinmygetalong]

I have always felt that the "main" focus of the Driving Forum was CDE's because that is the driving discipline covered by the magazine. Remember the magazine? You know, the outfit that foots the bill for this entire community? :winkgrin:

But horses competing in CDE's and horses being used for pleasure driving and horses being used for stump-pulling all start their careers with (hopefully) good basics and that is why I read this forum. For good, basic horse husbandry techniques.

This is a huge international community. People would be well-advised to take advantage of it!

p.s. And yes, there are some sour grapes. Which is actually a pretty accurate reflection of the real world.

[MSP]

Well, I normally just lurk on Driving but I would like to chime in on this.

I can understand where some one would be hesitant to post or get the impression that the forum is geared for showing and competitive driving.

My driving is a very casual affair and if I needed advice it would probably be some very basic questions. Many of the threads in Driving are like reading a foreign language to me and I really have no desire to learn that much about driving at this point in my life.

Maybe you all don’t realize how sophisticated you have become. And really isn’t that what the Driving forum should be? I mean if you came to the driving forum and everyone was a beginner or a casual Driver what would you talk about, who would answer the questions? ;)

Of course that said you should always remember that everyone has to start some where and not every one is look for perfection just some fun and safe driving. :)

[cinder88]

I've driven from the flashy to the trashy - though never with bling brow bands

Hey, Thomas! Send me an e-mail and I'll set you up!

Seriously, I read hear to learn from people who have BTDT and I can get info from. Granted, I just file away that info for now, as we haven't begun driving my new boy yet....But we will, and I'm sure posters here will be happy to help me out with it!

Keep up the good work.

To the original OP....Did the PM come from someone with three letters and a number in her user name? Wouldn't surprise me. Or anyone else, likely.

Cinder

[RidesAHaflinger]

See that! Up until now, the only "War Wagons" I was aware of were flying around marathon courses and zig zagging through hazards :eek::yes::lol:;);)!

Don

I also thought 'war wagon' was a synonym for 'marathon vehicle'. The first time I saw the term was when it was used derogatorily on the RED list. I joined the RED a few years ago and then left quickly after seeing people get shredded finely for talking about CDE's. Sheesh. What's up with that? I enjoy all types of driving. Fine harness or pulling contests are not my thing at all but that doesn't mean I don't admire the skill and training it takes to do them well. If a horse can do it, I like it. And vive la difference. The world is a dull place if we all do and talk about the same stuff.

[Weatherford]

The driving forum is for anyone who drives and/or is interested in driving - we don't care who what where when why and how. This is a place to educate and be educated. Just as the Hunter/Jumper forums isn't JUST for "A" circuit types, or the Dressage for only those who ride GP, or Foxhunting for foxhunters to the exclusion of those who run rabbits/hare with beagles and bassetts or harriers or coyotes instead of foxes.

The forum were never intended to be exclusive for any group or interest! The magazine, on the other hand is only for subscribers (something I recommend :) )....

Please, don't exclude pleasure drivers for any reason. We are all here to learn.

[hitchinmygetalong]

gothedistance, thanks for that post, though I do find it kind of distressing that the magazine considers driving "filler"! :)

[goeslikestink]

What an interesting topic. It's interesting because I got a PM from someone regarding the Horse Care forum also. This person thought that one dominant poster (who is also THE dominant poster of the driving forum) seems to be a professional veterinarian who will not tolerate the advice or opinions of others, and so this poster didn't want to meet head to head with him again and so just quit posting on the forum all together.

I assured this person that the prominent poster to whom they were referring is NOT a professional veterinarian and that they should continue posting. I haven't paid attention if they have posted on Horse Care again or not.

So I agree with slc2 that certain people are extremely nasty to beginners and seem to get their rocks off on doing it. It's pretty pathetic, actually. One particular poster here ripped you new ass when you mentioned drawing the outside line up over the back while ground driving. Well, the truth is, it CAN be done that way, and lots of people do that and it's called either long lining or double longing, or simply 'working the horse in hand.' But the problem was, this prominant poster just REFUSED to listen to the ideas of others, and INSISTED that all the nincompoops on the thread didn't know the first thing about "ground driving." So yeah - you're right.




why dont you come right out and say his name--------

tom as i can call him tom but because i respect him i call him the name he was born with

you know sometimes you just sound off as so jealous you hit on anything or anyone
and alway have the last word as you are a very righteous person
only trouble is you can only see the end of your nose as right
you always claim in anything you say as part of knowledge ---and never see the whole picture

jealously is one of those awful emotions some people have its called
the green strike as a pea which can widen or expanded
a pea to a snowball and a strike to a motorway
but they always get crushed or melted by superiors with a lot more in
depth knowledge


green is envy but green is also know to us in uk as cabbage.


as for novices like myself in driving as i class myself a novice
then i want to do things that are completely safe and the correct format
so i can have a good pony to do the things i want to with and i will take my
learnings from anyone that has in depth knowledge and wisdom and expereicnes to achieve that and i know that i am rusty in driving i have never claim that i am good at it but i do know how to long line and handle a pony from the ground upwards so i beleive i am half way home
but i wont make my next move on the pony till i am absolutely sure he can take that .

[3fatponies]

I assured this person that the prominent poster to whom they were referring is NOT a professional veterinarian and that they should continue posting.

TS, you might want to let this one go. This isn't the TWH thread, where public sympathy supported you even when you knew nothing about the topic (or even gaited horses in general), but still felt compelled to discourse at length on it. No insult intended, but I suspect you've pretty much used up your free passes around here for that behavior.

Throwing insults around about others' experience is just setting yourself up for an ugly and humilating fall when your own inadequacies are exposed (and we all have 'em, after all). Just relax if you want to continue to hang here without being told off or embarrassed on a daily basis. Other people can have differing opinions than yours and shockingly, the sun will continue to rise. Trust me on that.... ;)

[Sabine]

I don't drive anything - other than my car...LOL!- but I love reading the posts of certain members of this forum- because they seem to be amazingly healthy human beings- in the sense of their mental powers...just wanted to say cheers to all of THOSE- especially Thomas and Goeslikestink- keep up the good work!

Once I am 80 and can't ride anymore- I might start getting on that cart...by then I might know enough about it...;)

[MySparrow]

Oh, Sabine, start before you're 80! It's far more rich an experience than you can imagine!

[Cartfall]

Well, we certainly have brought some attention to our little forum --all kinds of people comin over-- some not so nice!

Having been around this for a few years--I have asked questions about every aspect of driving, training, showing, cdes, pleasure shows, trail driving. Every one was most supportive. I have also shared my experiences--which recently have been mostly CDEs. Those same folks have been most congratulatory and supportive.

Does that make this solely a CDE site? I don;t think so. I enjoy all of the posters--- all seem to have something to add. Do I always agree --no

But it seems to me that very much lately there has been some nasty posts that were pretty much uncharacteristic for this forum. Sad to see.

There is another forum I go to here in Florida that has OT all the time that are plain stupid--Sex offender owns a pet store. I just avoid those posts. I am now avoided posts here because of the tones.

If we can;t play nicely, I tend to be like others who sort of fade away.

[MySparrow]

Well, I'm not fading away. I need you all too much.