The impact of BB's and forums ?

[freestyle2music]

The impact of BB's and forums ?

In several cases I have asked myself what the impact is of all the opinions posted on BB's ?

It's obvious that you don't find many FEI/Top riders, judges or trainers on these boards, only 0.3% of my clientbase ever posted or red something on a bulletin board.

This might also be the reason for the fact that this Qualification system probably has more supporters than we think.

Some weeks ago I posted something about the lack of a good program for the Junior and Young riders in the USA. On COTH everybody told me that I was wrong, however why did so many YR's send me a PM or an Email that I was right. Could it be that people are afraid to give their own opinion when this opinion is against the big flow on a BB. Look for example to the people who are posting positive about Anky on TOB. There are just a few of the diehards Anky fans left over there, the rest is chassed away.

I am sure that we all create a tunnelview on these BB's , and make very usefull people with their usefull opinions and information dissapear, with the result that we all become blind for any other points of view.

Believe me : like in all other countries of the world this Qualification system is initiated by the judges, who are tired of the lack of good horsemanship which they believe to see every weekend. That is their opinion and not any detail coming from an Excell spreadsheet can change that opinion, because they were there.

Is the USA dressage community ready for a Qualification system, NO not yet
does the USA dressage community need a Qualification system, YES, but.....

First do something about the fact that you need a program to license trainers.
Put more efford in getting sponsoring.
Throw away 90% of all these committee-members.
Start building on a decent YoungRiders plan.

And last but not least.

Say farewell to your Old Boys network.

[J-Lu]

The impact of BB's and forums ?

In several cases I have asked myself what the impact is of all the opinions posted on BB's ?

Exchange of ideas. The recent rule change discussion showed that is does have a greater impact, but the point of the board is to have an impact on the members, not the dressage community at large.

It's obvious that you don't find many FEI/Top riders, judges or trainers on these boards, only 0.3% of my clientbase ever posted or red something on a bulletin board.

You don't find many, but you find quite a few who have posted and more who read this (especially when alerted to specific threads).

This might also be the reason for the fact that this Qualification system probably has more supporters than we think.

How many people did you think supported it versus didn't? The BBs are a self-selected sample of the dressage community, not the community itself. Different segments will have greater/lesser degrees of support, likely based on how it affects them.

Some weeks ago I posted something about the lack of a good program for the Junior and Young riders in the USA. On COTH everybody told me that I was wrong, however why did so many YR's send me a PM or an Email that I was right. Could it be that people are afraid to give their own opinion when this opinion is against the big flow on a BB. Look for example to the people who are posting positive about Anky on TOB. There are just a few of the diehards Anky fans left over there, the rest is chassed away.

"Everyone" didn't say you were wrong. You tend to hold strong opinions based on your experience in another country, and when people don't fully agree with your stance, you complain. I'm convinced you enjoy being an "outsider" (although I apologize if I'm wrong). I also don't think that "so many" YRs sent you a PM. A few maybe.

I think it is most likely that people don't have an opinion one way or the other, so they don't post. Instead, they read. Most people read posts to hear what others say although it likely doesn't change their own opinion much. Still others feel no need to post if somone else already covered their points. No one is "chased away" - they decide whether or not they want to post and which board has an environment that suits them. Lastly. I think there are very few people truly invested in what others think about them/their opinion on this board.

I am sure that we all create a tunnelview on these BB's , and make very usefull people with their usefull opinions and information dissapear, with the result that we all become blind for any other points of view.

Also, people do themselves and their viewpoints a disservice by being "tiring" personalities. But I also think that people take in more than you think and come to their own conclusions.

Believe me : like in all other countries of the world this Qualification system is initiated by the judges, who are tired of the lack of good horsemanship which they believe to see every weekend. That is their opinion and not any detail coming from an Excell spreadsheet can change that opinion, because they were there.

I know this is the case with many top judges. They officiate at smaller shows and don't understand why the reality of the rides don't always match up with their expectations. Spreadsheets provide facts, though, and serve to debunk myths and hyperbole. Facts are the basis of a logical argument, not emotion.

Is the USA dressage community ready for a Qualification system, NO not yet does the USA dressage community need a Qualification system, YES, but.....

First do something about the fact that you need a program to license trainers.
Put more efford in getting sponsoring.
Throw away 90% of all these committee-members.
Start building on a decent YoungRiders plan.

I believe Lendon Gray and Roberta Williams* came here not long ago to tell you about our Young Rider program (after you complained about it) and how it is building. You sound a bit guilty of tunnel vision yourself- why do you say "start building a decent Young Rider plan"? It has started! You were corrected in a previous thread. You have stated your opinions of how things should be in America several times. There's no need to restate them over and over again. *Aren't these top riders/trainers/officials who have posted on this BB?



See above in blue...

[Bogey2]

freestyle2music, what's YOUR purpose on them?

[freestyle2music]

freestyle2music, what's YOUR purpose on them?

Who is them ?

[Bogey2]

on the BB's?

[claire]

Theo,
One recent example of the impact of BB's is the recent tabling of the Qualification Rule Proposal.

The various BB's were utilized as a means of quickly and accurately getting the facts out to the base and organize the information, resources and contacts to initiate letter writing campaigns.

Whether the USEF BoD votes to approve the Rule Proposal or not, I doubt there would have been this result had not so many been informed and encouraged on the BB's to communicate their viewpoint to the USEF BoD.


Also, another result was the invitation(s) extended to you by Roberta Williams (USDF FEI Jr/Young Rider Council Chair) on the thread you refer to re: the YR program.

Did you take her up on her invitations? :confused:



In several cases I have asked myself what the impact is of all the opinions posted on BB's ?
Some weeks ago I posted something about the lack of a good program for the Junior and Young riders in the USA. On COTH everybody told me that I was wrong


-I would like to invite you, Theo, and the people with whom you share your wine to come to our meetings and give us your ideas.
You can even bring the wine.
And bring the rep from Rabobank.

-Since you are coming to Florida, I will invite you to come to the Young Rider clinic in Wellington to be a part of a panel discussion on improving our program. I mean it in all sincerity.But you must bring ideas that will work in this country. I am interested in ideas.
You don't even have to bring the wine. Just Rabobank.

Roberta Williams
USDF FEI Jr/Young Rider Council Chair

[STF]

I think lot of highly involved dressage people read and lurk here. Im sure they are smart enough not to get into goofy internet nastymessspat on topics. Its a good source for outside opinions but far from the "do all" of the dressage world.
And everyone knows the old saying of opinions......... (I wont even go there).

[ideayoda]

".........initiated by the judges, who are tired of the lack of good horsemanship which they believe to see every weekend."

From being around this sport for more than 50 years, the judges are reaping what they sewed. Hold the riders to a high standard in the first place and they will ride with trainers/teachers who teach them to fulfill that standard. Having qualifiers will not change the standard if they just require x number of scores, but still dont have teeth in them. So, no full bridle to get through 3rd, they will just power&paint the lungeing next. Just mho,

[dutchmike]

Yet another negative post by our own zwartkijker:lol:. Not even worth a response:no:

[STF]

Yet another negative post by our own zwartkijker:lol:. Not even worth a response:no:


Mike, do I hear some aggrivation in your reponse to your dutchie counterpart Theo??? :lol::lol::lol:

[dutchmike]

Mike, do I hear some aggrivation in your reponse to your dutchie counterpart Theo??? :lol::lol::lol:

I love Theo. It reminds me why I hate Holland:D. He claims we have to many associations here lol I guess he has no idea in holland have just as many or more http://www.mijnlievelingsdier.nl/paarden/adressen_paarden.htm

Yes Holland is a real paradise(not)

[Equibrit]

BB's do allow people with absolutely no knowledge or experience of a particular subject, to interject their "opinion". Why they do this is a mystery!

[angel]

I would like to hope that BBs make it possible for those riders who are unable to have wonderful trainers might find help to guide them. Within many upper level rides today, there can be found examples of how dressage training has been muddied and become incorrect. Rollkur is never correct. Deep riding might be correct depending on how it is being done. Riding on the curb bit is never correct. Toe flipping at the extended and medium trot is never correct. Tail wringing is never correct. Lack of engaged hocks is never correct. Riders bouncing into the saddle on every canter stride is never correct, and I don't want someone saying that it is just because the horse has such a "big" canter stride that this is happening. Piaffe on the curb is not correct. I can go on and on and on. These incorrect things need to be pointed out as so often these days the performances include many of these so-named faults...and I don't care what big name sits on the horse. What is pathetic is that these FEI riders should know better, but don't as is demonstrated by their riding.

[freestyle2music]

I love Theo. It reminds me why I hate Holland:D. He claims we have to many associations here lol I guess he has no idea in holland have just as many or more http://www.mijnlievelingsdier.nl/paarden/adressen_paarden.htm

Yes Holland is a real paradise(not)

[edit]
Please do us all a favor and point us to one usefull post that you made on a BB (it doesn't matter which BB), because as we say in the country which you hate so much, "you are always pissing against the wind".

[grayarabpony]

And please do us all a favor and point us to one usefull post that you made on a BB (it doesn't matter which BB), because as we say in the country which you hate so much, "you are always pissing against the wind".

Now THAT'S the most intelligent post I've read all week. :rolleyes: :lol: :lol:

[STF]

And please do us all a favor and point us to one usefull post that you made on a BB (it doesn't matter which BB), because as we say in the country which you hate so much, "you are always pissing against the wind".

Mike is actually a very nice person. Thing is, he calls it as he sees it. If people cant handle it, then they should avoid him. But if you want an honest anwser, then.......

As someone who has met Mike, worked with him and consider him a friend, your way out of line.

You, Theo, have offended many (including myself) on this BB for a long time. I dont even think you realize how offensive you are with the things you post.

Maybe its a language barrier, dunno.

I have watched you post negative about American dressage for a long time and after a while it gets old.

If you hate the system so much, go post on some Dutch BB? I have to agree the only reason you even come here is to start trouble or should I say stir it up.

Maybe its time to self evaluate before pointing fingers at Mike. At least Mike is IN THE SYSTEM here and trying to make a difference, not just degrading it every chance he gets like you do.

A someone else posted, did you TAKE up the offer from Mrs. Williams?? Did you make an apperance or even offer anything other than negative slams against American Dressage???

Unless your going to be part of the solution, then your only part of the problem.

What Im saying in short is, NEGATIVE PEOPLE SUCK! :)

[dutchmike]

STF you hit the nail on the head what do they say in the U.S again." if you are not part of the solution then you are part of the problem". Maybe it is the language barrier but Theo's english looks pretty good to me. On a other thread he actually tried to explain how the system works in Holland but I think that alot of Europeans haven't got a clue about the size of the USA and to drive 10 or 20 hours is nothing here and gets you not that far. IMO Holland ,Belgium and France together must be the size of Texas:cool:

[Moderator 1]

This board exists to share knowledge and opinions about horses and the issues that relate to them. You're welcome to discuss the role BB's play in the horse world, but avoid the insult-slinging commentary. People can evaluate the relative merit of an individual's posting history and personality characteristics for themselves. Thanks.

[AZ TD]

The internet has enabled a great deal more timely communication. It is wonderful to get show results from other continents as well as videos! I think without the internet and bbs this rule change would have passed in its vague format. I think the greater access to the information will influence the change for the better. I don't see the negativity that some seem to get from the procedures that are in place in other countries. While some things may not apply due to our huge geographic challenges in the US, some ideas are worthwhile. I would love to see some formal training program here in the US. The USDF trainer certification program does not provide for the education of our trainers or riders. In Arizona we do not have a single "certified" trainer, although we do have many good ones....as well as bad, and the uninformed do not know the difference. In my opinion, this new certification to move up the levels does not address the basic issues we have in the US.
Theresa

[Lexi]

One recent example of the impact of BB's is the recent tabling of the Qualification Rule Proposal.no, it was tabled because the dressage committee was proposing to do rulemaking in a way that rulemaking is simply not done (making a rule indicating the intent to make a future rule)

and that has nothing whatsoever to do with internet discussions or dressage specifically, it's pretty basic to the way the sport is administered on a generic level

pigs would have flown before the USEF Board passed that crap (with or without the internet)

[HappyHoppingHaffy]

Wait, wait...! Let me make popcorn and get a glass of wine before you all go on much further!
This is why I love the dressage BBs!! :D:winkgrin::winkgrin:

[claire]

pigs would have flown before the USEF Board passed that crap (with or without the internet)

:lol: One would hope so!

My point, though, was that the BB's had an impact because:

"the various BB's were utilized as a means of quickly and accurately getting the facts out to the base and organize the information, resources and contacts to initiate letter writing campaigns."



Leading up to this week’s USEF Annual Convention, supporters and opponents of the USEF proposed rule change have flooded both USEF and USDF officials with emails, as well as posting their views on equestrian blogs and discussion boards. Abigail Cook, USEF Legislative Coordinator who accepts and distributes comments, said yesterday 275-07 “has received more feedback from the membership than any rule change I’ve been involved with.”

[slc2]

LOL....I think if the USEF was driven by this BB, we'd be having expensive warmbloods banned from the lower levels, and the top ten riders in the world would regularly be flogged in public with a copy of Sylvia Loch's book. The Grand Prix test would be changed to include sorting cows and an analysis of the personality of the rider.

I agree with the previous poster. I think individuals like Rebecca Yount presented information to the USEF that was useful and that might influence the content of the qualification rule, but I think the main problem was the idea of voting on the intent to make a rule.

And if we look carefully, I think we will see that the USEF still appears to very much intend to have qualification for 3rd and 4th level. So I hardly think the bulletin board 'stopped' this rule from going into play. It looks like it is very likely to go into play.

[Bogey2]

I would like to hope that BBs make it possible for those riders who are unable to have wonderful trainers might find help to guide them. Within many upper level rides today, there can be found examples of how dressage training has been muddied and become incorrect

if this were true you would see more barefoot, non grain eating, bitless, out 24/7, color bred horses in the dressage arena:lol:

[zinnniaz]

And if we look carefully, I think we will see that the USEF still appears to very much intend to have qualification for 3rd and 4th level. So I hardly think the bulletin board 'stopped' this rule from going into play. It looks like it is very likely to go into play.


It may, but I think voices were heard. The proposal as it stood BEFORE any of us internet hysterics got involved, was terrible. People spoke up. We were listened to. We have a voice in th eprocess of making the qualification system effective and sensible. As opposed to ineffective and ridiculous. I am pleased that the boards had this effect.

[zinnniaz]

no, it was tabled because the dressage committee was proposing to do rulemaking in a way that rulemaking is simply not done (making a rule indicating the intent to make a future rule)

and that has nothing whatsoever to do with internet discussions or dressage specifically, it's pretty basic to the way the sport is administered on a generic level

pigs would have flown before the USEF Board passed that crap (with or without the internet)

I think we had an effect. It may have been tabled because it was an incorrect way to make a change but it sure looked like it was rolling full steam ahead before people started talking and writing. Why is it hard to admit the internet discussions can have a good effect?

[slc2]

It's not that it's 'hard to admit'. It's that some people don't agree with you that it HAS such a big effect. That's allowed; it's a legitimate opinion for any number of people to have.

The point being made here is that the BB did not cause the process to stop on this rule. That's a fact you can't debate. IT's going ahead.

I think there's a tendency when one is involved in a bb, to believe it has a huge effect on the world.

I also do not agree with you that the BB ALONE caused this process to delay (note the USEF even released a statement that they're going ahead with it), or that it will stop this process ultimately. Yours is also a legitimate opinion to have....but because someone doesn't agree with you, doesn't mean they just 'can't admit' something. It just means they don't agree with you.

I do agree with you that the bulletin board can be a way for people to communicate quickly. But there are also ordinary emails, email lists, telephones, and many other ways of people communicating. People even talk face to face sometimes.

My own feeling is that many of the most closely involved people are not at all 'tuned in' to what is said on this bb. I think that personal correspondence they receive would have more weight.

Those who DO get 'tuned in' might be so incensed by the personal insults aimed at them that they would 'tune out' very quickly. People may not want to admit it here in the bb world, but calling an organization 'rotten', 'elitist', etc...it may just have an effect on how eager they are to read what's said here.

I think it's very naive to believe that rude insults to the organization and the people in them will cause the people in that organization to listen very closely to what is said here.

[zinnniaz]

I do not believe anyone listens when insulted. It shuts down communication for sure. I think the impact of the internet is felt in: the quickness of communication and the dissemination of information, the ability of people to give back opinion and make their voices heard. I am certain that more voices were heard and those voices had a larger impact just because of the sheer volume of people who reacted to the proposal. Ideas were shared and again the information was available and talked about much more effectivel;y than it would have been if it was just a dry article in a paper newsletter sent by the local GMOs. It doesn't matter to me if some of the impact was outside the realm of the internet. But it is disingenuous to state that the rule would not have passed regardless.

People can disagree-- sure. It happens all the time. But it's kind of silly to cling to this notion that the internet hysterics were not really effective. Internet hysterics-- unite!!!

[zinnniaz]

It's not that it's 'hard to admit'. It's that some people don't agree with you that it HAS such a big effect. That's allowed; it's a legitimate opinion for any number of people to have.

The point being made here is that the BB did not cause the process to stop on this rule. That's a fact you can't debate. IT's going ahead.

I think there's a tendency when one is involved in a bb, to believe it has a huge effect on the world.

I also do not agree with you that the BB ALONE caused this process to delay (note the USEF even released a statement that they're going ahead with it), or that it will stop this process ultimately. Yours is also a legitimate opinion to have....but because someone doesn't agree with you, doesn't mean they just 'can't admit' something. It just means they don't agree with you.

I do agree with you that the bulletin board can be a way for people to communicate quickly. But there are also ordinary emails, email lists, telephones, and many other ways of people communicating. People even talk face to face sometimes.

My own feeling is that many of the most closely involved people are not at all 'tuned in' to what is said on this bb. I think that personal correspondence they receive would have more weight.

Those who DO get 'tuned in' might be so incensed by the personal insults aimed at them that they would 'tune out' very quickly. People may not want to admit it here in the bb world, but calling an organization 'rotten', 'elitist', etc...it may just have an effect on how eager they are to read what's said here.

I think it's very naive to believe that rude insults to the organization and the people in them will cause the people in that organization to listen very closely to what is said here.


Responding to the parts in bold:
Reread my posts. I didn't say the process was stopped. I said voices were heard and the internet had a good effect. I stand by it. The process was changed. We are not instituting a rule change that is vague. There is no rule change saying we all need 20 points, etc, etc. People spoke up. The committee LISTENED. The process of this rule change NOW is a lot more open. The proposal will be brought to us in JUNE, well before it will be voted on. This is good!!

Regarding the tendency to think BBs have a large effect on the world. Um. They do. Because they are made up of people and they become communities. Look at politics-- political campaigns have changed forever because of the power of those pesky internet hysterics-- the bloggers. Look at every horse ever rescued by the concerted efforts of these boards. There are many examples. The boards are not just coffee klatches. They are individuals and communites with a VOICE. When one's voice is heard, one has the power to change things. I think that is fantastic.

[pwynnnorman]

I think the OP made a great point about BBs. It's useful to remember, IMO, that opining HERE (or anywhere in public) is hardly representative of anyone or any group--except those who see fit to opine in public.

However, that doesn't mean that the opinions expressed here are not shared (on all sides of any particular issue) by others, nor that they are ignored.

Heck, look at blogs. To me, the airtime media gives individual bloggers sometimes is astonishing. Who the heck are they anyway (as individuals)? But here, in a collective sense, these BBs offer useful perspectives to take into account and certainly an efficient means of communication.

[tabula rashah]

It's obvious that you don't find many FEI/Top riders, judges or trainers on these boards, only 0.3% of my clientbase ever posted or red something on a bulletin board.


I think that there are a lot more around here than you think- I just think that most of them do not choose to loudly announce their presence at all times- which makes sense to me.

As far as the impact of BB's- I think it most dirrectly affects the grassroots of the horse world; the owners, breeders, grooms, stable workers, etc- which of course, has a giant effect on the horse industry. Do I think that this is the first place that the big organizations (ie USEF, USDF, etc) look before they make decisions or rule proposals? No, not at all.

[freestyle2music]

I think that there are a lot more around here than you think- I just think that most of them do not choose to loudly announce their presence at all times- which makes sense to me.


But isn't this the same as trying to get sponsors ?

How do we get these experienced riders, trainers and judges into the BB-basket, because if these people are only lurking it doesn't help anyone.

I have tried it several times with my clients and friends, and yes some have reached 3 or 4 postings, before they were chased away.

Look at some posters on this board who persist in telling you that I hate Americans, the opposite is true, I have sponsored already for 25.000 US$ for the American youngriders dressage-sport, and have put over 3000 dressage videos on-line, free of charge. 71.1% of these videos are viewed by Americans. And did I tell you that I have worked an lived in America (Orange County, LA) for many years.

I have a very strong opinion about what could be done better, specialy in the area of Junior and Youngriders (the future of the sport). At this moment the majority of our Dutch A-team consists of Youngriders from a few years ago.
(Imke, Laurens, Kirsten, Marlies, Edward etc.)
Not one country in the world (even not Germany) can say this. WHY...
Because 10 years ago we appointed a YR national coach a YR trainer a YR coordinator and created the perfect environment for these youngsters.

But as one of my closest American friend told me "Theo, these people don't want to learn, so don't spend your time trying to educate them, every word you say is like a drop of blood for these sharks".

And she was and is right

[slc2]

Anyone who doesn't instantly see things exactly your way 'doesn't want to learn'?

Now THAT'S interesting.

People need time to learn about things. They may agree with you later...hearing additional info or opinions may change their mind...or they may not ever agree. That's ok.

[AnotherRound]

At this moment the majority of our Dutch A-team consists of Youngriders from a few years ago.
Not one country in the world (even not Germany) can say this.

Wait, wait. Not one other country can say what? That their A team consists of young riders having moved up in the past few years? Not one? None? No countries? Only Holland?

You loose credibility when you belittle and marginalize other populations in your posts.

[edit]

[Bogey2]

But as one of my closest American friend told me "Theo, these people don't want to learn, so don't spend your time trying to educate them, every word you say is like a drop of blood for these sharks".



Theo, we are a BIG country that has come along way in the past 15 years for the sport of dressage. Go do your homework. The people in this country lending support come in many shapes and sizes. If not with money, then with volunteering. The programs put out there today are of much higher quality than 15 years ago.
You seem to think that this BB reflects the whole sport...you are so wrong. The people at the top don't hang out on a BB and could really care less about YOU and your pot stirring.
If you are so good and so right, take your message on the road and in person. It's way to easy to spout on here....c'mon over and get your hands dirty.
Maybe we can send one of our other sports teams to Holland to help you all out.:winkgrin:

[dutchmike]

Yep the dutch dressage team is doing wonderfull at the moment but then again not to long ago the Dutch soccer team was one of the best in the world aswell and now they suck at it for the last 5 years. National teams have their ups and downs that is just the way it goes. If we didn't have Anky we would be still in the top 5 but not on the number 1 spot

[tabula rashah]

But isn't this the same as trying to get sponsors ?

Huh? I'm not quite sure I get this reference... anyway

As far as getting the BNT and riders, etc. on the board- I would think that there would be two major reasons for them not to be hanging out on the BB's- 1. They don't have time (I'm the secratary for a BNT and believe me when I say that time is precious!)
2. When there are people who pay for their services, why should they give it away for free?

I also think the US is definitely moving in the right direction with YR's. But what what's good for the goose is not always good for the gander in that the US and Europe are not the same place, not by a long shot. We've got to stop trying to be the same place and realize that the US has major logistic differences, different horses, different mindsets.....

[ride-n-tx]

There is a lot of information available on this BB ranging from very good to utter c**p. However, I don't think that is very different from what you would get if you got a random sampling of horse people in a given area. There was a relatively recent poll done that asked what level people were showing at (search for "what level do you show at" if you care to look). I was pleasantly surprised at how many people were showing 4th and above, and I personally feel that I have learned a lot more about the global dressage community from this BB. There is also a lot of info on here that I would not have known of otherwise.

Quite often, the most vocal people on this BB don't always have the best advice. If you don't like the drama that shows up don't respond to it! This is a community too and you will get out of it what you put in.

My point is, you can have access to a wealth of information over the internet, but you still have to be discerning enough to filter out the bad stuff.

[eqsiu]

IMO Holland ,Belgium and France together must be the size of Texas:cool:

I know I'm a nerd...but The Netherlands+Belgium+France=Texas+20,000 sq miles. :D

[claire]

I have a very strong opinion about what could be done better, specialy in the area of Junior and Youngriders (the future of the sport).

But as one of my closest American friend told me "Theo, these people don't want to learn, so don't spend your time trying to educate them, every word you say is like a drop of blood for these sharks".


Theo,

Did you respond to Roberta Williams' invitation to be part of the YR panel discussion? :confused:

I would think this would be the most effective way to share your experience and ideas of how to improve the YR program here in the US.
(rather than posting on a BB)


-Since you are coming to Florida, I will invite you to come to the Young Rider clinic in Wellington to be a part of a panel discussion on improving our program. I mean it in all sincerity.But you must bring ideas that will work in this country. I am interested in ideas.
You don't even have to bring the wine. Just Rabobank.

Roberta Williams
USDF FEI Jr/Young Rider Council Chair

[flshgordon]

I have a very strong opinion about what could be done better, specialy in the area of Junior and Youngriders (the future of the sport). At this moment the majority of our Dutch A-team consists of Youngriders from a few years ago.
(Imke, Laurens, Kirsten, Marlies, Edward etc.)
Not one country in the world (even not Germany) can say this. WHY...
Because 10 years ago we appointed a YR national coach a YR trainer a YR coordinator and created the perfect environment for these youngsters.

But as one of my closest American friend told me "Theo, these people don't want to learn, so don't spend your time trying to educate them, every word you say is like a drop of blood for these sharks".

And she was and is right

THeo....what on earth makes you think we should give a flip if you have a strong opinion on something that DOESN"T EVEN AFFECT YOU???? seriously....why should I care? why should anyone care?

Would anyone care if I had an opinion on the training methods of the German olympic team? I think not....so maybe you should stop sticking your nose in where it doesn't belong.

And again...I also want to know if you took Roberta up on her offer....you know to carry all the wishes of all our young riders to her...:lol: :lol: :lol:

[swgarasu]

The impact of BB's and forums ?

In several cases I have asked myself what the impact is of all the opinions posted on BB's ?

It's obvious that you don't find many FEI/Top riders, judges or trainers on these boards, only 0.3% of my clientbase ever posted or red something on a bulletin board.
.


It takes a long time for most people to ride FEI, and judges and trainers are usually adults age 30+. The internet isn't really very old, but it keeps growing and growing. So maybe the BBs don't have a huge impact on those people now, but I think many more young people are growing up with the web as part of their daily lives, and when they become the FEI riders, judges, and trainers, I think there will be more of an impact. But you still have to be more careful what you say and what opinion you have as a professional vs. an amateur, so I think that will not change.
There are a lot of people who have written about things like the proposed rule change, so there is a good sized audience even now, but probably most of them don't really have any power.

[RonaldGroen]

The sharks are gathering:lol:

[Velvet]

A correction for Theo.

Just wanted to set you straight on the American term. It's not "pissing against the wind", it is "pissing INTO the wind."

One does not piss against something--other than a wall or toilet bowl. ;) One pisses into or away from the wind, and most would prefer away. Other's piss up a rope, but then I guess that's because someone told them to do that. :lol: You can also be "pissed off" and I suppose a few have been "pissed on" but the latter is an action, and the former is an emotion. In England and Australia you can get "pissed," which means drunk. You can also tell someone to "piss off" when they make you mad. So, if I say I'm pissed, would you know if I was angry, or if I was drunk? What about if I said I was pissy? Which means your having a fit about something or are actually pissed off and are using the girly inflection. Oh well... nevermind . (Oops, wrong thread. :lol: )

Am I really participating in this pissing contest??? :winkgrin:

[Dressage Art]

Theo, I honestly enjoy reading the information that you post on BBs. But not so much the nonsense fluff that you get yourself in to... I really would hate to see you go ... yet again... So if I may, a friendly advice: can you please try to pick your battles and stay on BB for a while? Put the instigators on your ignore list if you must…

Now back to the regularly scheduled bickering...

[Lexi]

A correction for Theo.

Just wanted to set you straight on the American term. It's not "pissing against the wind", it is "pissing INTO the wind."

One does not piss against something--other than a wall or toilet bowl. ;) One pisses into or away from the wind, and most would prefer away. Other's piss up a rope, but then I guess that's because someone told them to do that. :lol: You can also be "pissed off" and I suppose a few have been "pissed on" but the latter is an action, and the former is an emotion. In England and Australia you can get "pissed," which means drunk. You can also tell someone to "piss off" when they make you mad. So, if I say I'm pissed, would you know if I was angry, or if I was drunk? What about if I said I was pissy? Which means your having a fit about something or are actually pissed off and are using the girly inflection. Oh well... nevermind . (Oops, wrong thread. :lol: )

Am I really participating in this pissing contest??? :winkgrin:uh, no need to" correct" something that is a commonly used expression in the UK (you know, the folks who invented the language in question). the British conventions could naturally be expected to predominate in the teaching of the language to European speakers.

[Velvet]

The correction was on American usage. This board resides in America, and pissing against just is not as much fun to say or visualize as "into". Seems more like a brick wall to pee on when you say "against". When you say "into" it sounds like you're loosing the battle with trying to pee a hole through the wind.

To piss or not to piss...that really is the question here, isn't it??

Careful, Lexi, I could just get really pissed off, go get pissed on top of it, and then tell you to piss up a rope. :winkgrin:

Where's that frying pan weilding harpy, suzy? I need her frying pan! :lol: Somebody stop me! ;)

[see u at x]

A correction for Theo.

Just wanted to set you straight on the American term. It's not "pissing against the wind", it is "pissing INTO the wind."

One does not piss against something--other than a wall or toilet bowl. ;) One pisses into or away from the wind, and most would prefer away. Other's piss up a rope, but then I guess that's because someone told them to do that. :lol: You can also be "pissed off" and I suppose a few have been "pissed on" but the latter is an action, and the former is an emotion. In England and Australia you can get "pissed," which means drunk. You can also tell someone to "piss off" when they make you mad. So, if I say I'm pissed, would you know if I was angry, or if I was drunk? What about if I said I was pissy? Which means your having a fit about something or are actually pissed off and are using the girly inflection. Oh well... nevermind . (Oops, wrong thread. :lol: )

Am I really participating in this pissing contest??? :winkgrin:

Totally off topic, but this is one of the funniest posts I've read on this BB. Thanks, Velvet!

I agree with what some of the others have said - there are far more important things than an internet BB and some people take these forums WAY too seriously. It just isn't that serious. Frankly, I get pissed off and annoyed by people who always want to play ye old wonderful game of "America Bashing". Especially those who don't live here or who are not a part of any American system in any way, shape, or form. It is easy to sit back and pass judgment but a lot more difficult to actually be a part of the solution as other people have suggested.

PS- Can I use "to piss or not to piss" as my new signature line? :lol:

[Dalfan]

But as one of my closest American friend told me "Theo, these people don't want to learn, so don't spend your time trying to educate them, every word you say is like a drop of blood for these sharks".

I think you should listen to your wise friend. Those that wish to be educated by you I'm sure will be in touch. Or like others have asked - Have you offered your services to the powers that be?

Theo; are you in the middle of another meltdown? Your obsession with the great U.S. of A. is interesting, to say the least.

[Velvet]

PS- Can I use "to piss or not to piss" as my new signature line? :lol:

Sure, but just warn me if you decide to piss in my general direction! ;)

[see u at x]

Sure, but just warn me if you decide to piss in my general direction! ;)

Thank you! And I promise not to ever piss in your direction - even if I wanted to, I'm not that talented! :lol:

[STF]

THeo....what on earth makes you think we should give a flip if you have a strong opinion on something that DOESN"T EVEN AFFECT YOU???? seriously....why should I care? why should anyone care?

Would anyone care if I had an opinion on the training methods of the German olympic team? I think not....so maybe you should stop sticking your nose in where it doesn't belong.

And again...I also want to know if you took Roberta up on her offer....you know to carry all the wishes of all our young riders to her...:lol: :lol: :lol:

That is what I was saying as well, but you were much more blunt about it! :winkgrin:

[flshgordon]

That is what I was saying as well, but you were much more blunt about it! :winkgrin:

I have been hanging around Beth too long ;)

[STF]

I have been hanging around Beth too long ;)

Im sorry!!! :lol::lol:

[Coreene]

Theo, laat ze barsten. I love you! :yes:

[RonaldGroen]

Theo, you must be crazy to sponsor these *ssholes

[STF]

Is this just one of the many Theo Alters?
*sigh*

[oldschool]

I thought we were supposed to be done with this Theo person. And second, you'd be surprised just how many BNT's post here anonymously. and even more that track the gossip and such. Third, I don't know why anyone from another country cares so much about what goes on here in America. It obviously shows insecurity, i.e. put another down to build yourself up. No wonder Erin quit.

[dutchmike]

Is this just one of the many Theo Alters?
*sigh*

I have lost count:rolleyes:

[Moderator 1]

Please remember that the "Ignore" function in your user control panel exists to make invisible the posts of any user whose comments you'd prefer not to read.

Thanks!

[Sabine]

BB's do allow people with absolutely no knowledge or experience of a particular subject, to interject their "opinion". Why they do this is a mystery!

Now dearest- this is IMO- a great post...although we rarely see eye to eye- I have to hand it to you on this one...!!;)

[Sabine]

People need time to learn about things. They may agree with you later...hearing additional info or opinions may change their mind...or they may not ever agree. That's ok.

Slc- amazing new maturity- and great posts...Theo- you might hate to hear that- but she's right....you were often right in the past - your timing was a tad off and your language- and I give you a big disclaimer because of being a foreigner (me too...!) threw you for some challenges...be patient- be polite- peeps will sit at your feet and wait for the wisdom to come across your lips...LOL!

[Sabine]

Sure, but just warn me if you decide to piss in my general direction! ;)

Or as my friend says: "Just don't piss on my leg and tell me it's raining...'!!

[RonaldGroen]

Pissing against the wind comes from the naval community :D

[freestyle2music]

Slc- amazing new maturity- and great posts...Theo- you might hate to hear that- but she's right....you were often right in the past - your timing was a tad off and your language- and I give you a big disclaimer because of being a foreigner (me too...!) threw you for some challenges...be patient- be polite- peeps will sit at your feet and wait for the wisdom to come across your lips...LOL!

Ok Sabine I will stay modest this time, but believe me I have only two rules:

1 I am always right
2 In the case that I make a mistake rule 1 applies.

Goodnight , I have to start working on the music for the Chinese Evening at Jumping Amsterdam.:yes:, so I am going try to find some poluted music.:D



Theo

[Velvet]

Pissing against the wind comes from the naval community :D

I heard its origins were in the 1960s and never heard anything about it being related to the naval community. At least, that's pissing "into" the wind. I've already voiced my opinion about "pissing against the wind" and that it's not an American phrase. So, it could be that the naval community in England said that, but then again, they didn't have a pot to piss in so it would make sense. :winkgrin: