GETTING OLDER; When you decide it's time to slow down.

[PineHillFarm]

I have been riding horses for 22 yrs. Training for 19 yrs. I was teaching a young QH to jump a small wall today. he was jumping it from a stand-still like a silly greenie-beanie. He popped me out of the tack and as I hung on the side of this horse, feeling gravity take hold of the inevitable, I thought about how sore I was going to be. I plopped to the ground.:::THUD:::

Man, it SUCKS GETTING OLD!!!! I am only 30, but I have the beaten-up body of a 60 year old! LOL I remember the days when I was in my teens, and never cared about possibly getting hurt. I thought I was invincible. But now, I don't bounce like I used to! Now there is more of a T H U D, lol.

As I sit here with my heating pad, 4 "Solampas Pads" and 4 advil, I wonder if anyone one else out there has come face to face with having to slow down in their riding. I still have asperations to show at the Grand Prix level, but I wonder if my body is going to hold up! I have lower back problems to start, broke my right ankle two years ago, and in August broke my back & pelvis.

As my riding has progressed, so have the risks. Especially since I train young, greenies all day long. They can be rather unpredictable at times. When I was younger, I didn't care what a horse did while I was on it. If it was crazy, that was FUN! But now in the cold, damp days of December, my old bones are starting to tell me it's time to slow down. Boy that's a hard pill to swallow. To my fellow "Fossils Over Fences", when did you know it was time to Slow Down?

[PineHillFarm]

I have been riding horses for 22 yrs. Training for 19 yrs. I was teaching a young QH to jump a small wall today. he was jumping it from a stand-still like a silly greenie-beanie. He popped me out of the tack and as I hung on the side of this horse, feeling gravity take hold of the inevitable, I thought about how sore I was going to be. I plopped to the ground.:::THUD:::

Man, it SUCKS GETTING OLD!!!! I am only 30, but I have the beaten-up body of a 60 year old! LOL I remember the days when I was in my teens, and never cared about possibly getting hurt. I thought I was invincible. But now, I don't bounce like I used to! Now there is more of a T H U D, lol.

As I sit here with my heating pad, 4 "Solampas Pads" and 4 advil, I wonder if anyone one else out there has come face to face with having to slow down in their riding. I still have asperations to show at the Grand Prix level, but I wonder if my body is going to hold up! I have lower back problems to start, broke my right ankle two years ago, and in August broke my back & pelvis.

As my riding has progressed, so have the risks. Especially since I train young, greenies all day long. They can be rather unpredictable at times. When I was younger, I didn't care what a horse did while I was on it. If it was crazy, that was FUN! But now in the cold, damp days of December, my old bones are starting to tell me it's time to slow down. Boy that's a hard pill to swallow. To my fellow "Fossils Over Fences", when did you know it was time to Slow Down?

[Jodigurl]

Yes, getting older is no fun. Due to an injury I was forced to reconsider jumping and riding alltogether. Well, I could never really give up riding, but I did slow down considerably. I bought myself a very nice mare to ride and breed. I am letting my daughter take on the babies and I live "vicariously" through her accomplishments. I am in my 40's and yes, it definitely hurts more and usually worse consequences when you and your horse are separated. It can help to get on a serious workout program at the gym, but if you have horses, you probably don't have much time for workouts!

Stay safe and good luck!

[wishful thinking]

Honey, I'm right there with you http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/cry.gif! As I watch the teenaged eq. riders popping over oxers without stirrups I sigh and think...when did I get so old? Like you, I'm in my thirties (OK...I'm a little more into my thirties than you...pushin' 40 in fact), and I struggle with getting my body to behave as I would like it.

With that said, I'm sorry to say I don't know what to tell you. What is nice about the sport is you have men and women out there together and you have olympic riders in their 40s and older. Should be inspiring. Still, gravity, the reality of physical pain, and the very real understanding of morbidity do stand it the way of success some days.

On a lighter note...I've been told that pilates and yoga do wonderful things for the aging rider's body. I just need where to fit these things in with 3 little kids, a horse, a pony and 2 cats. Let me know if you find "the answer."

[JustJump]

<<As my riding has progressed, so have the risks. Especially since I train young, greenies all day long. They can be rather unpredictable at times. When I was younger, I didn't care what a horse did while I was on it. If it was crazy, that was FUN! But now in the cold, damp days of December, my old bones are starting to tell me it's time to slow down. Boy that's a hard pill to swallow. To my fellow "Fossils Over Fences", when did you know it was time to Slow Down?>>

At 30, you are not a fossil. But if you want to fulfil your aspirations, you must question not whether it's time to slow down, but whether it's time to get moving on actually bringing yourself closer to your goals.

Sounds like you might be ready to alter your job description from erratic greenie trainer to jumper prospect trainer, otherwise you will be jumping crossrails and teeny greenie fences for the rest of your life. Being a top jumper rider requires formation of longer term partnerships with your horses than it sounds like you have had. And surely you must figure out a way to remove yourself from a climate where the days are cold and dark--if you are going to get anywhere you have to get yourself to FL or CA or at least AZ or MI where the action is.

Figure out what it is you have to do to get to that point, and leave the green beans to someone else.

[Boston Chicken]

You're 30, not 80. Yes, it hurts longer when you fall and things break more easily, but at 30, I'd say you've got decades more of good days left. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Incidentally, I'm 32 now so I have to believe the same thing - even after many, many broken bones.

Best to you and happy holidays.

[enjoytheride]

My BM is 56 and she has a 4yo stallion that she plans on showing this year, she did send him away for training. She bred and raised this stallion's father who is now 22 and retired and she bought, showed and still owns the stallion's father's mother who is now 32.

Does it make her feel old? I don't think so. She is proud that she has 3 generations of horses in her barn and that she has succesfully shown all three and all three have done well in the show world.

[Sparky]

I turned 59 this year. My riding career has gone from barrel racing and pole bending in my teens to Grand Prix dressage in my twenties, to hunters in my thirties and forties, to a Western Pleasure horse at the moment, and since I made a silly bet 13 years ago with my daughter in law, will progress to a hackney pony when I turn 60. Thank God there's always a new direction to turn, that involves smaller horses that are much closer to the ground http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

[JulieMontgomery]

Then, hurry..... find out what your BM is doing! Vitamins? Yoga? Whaaaaaat?

I just turned 54 and don't feel a day over 60....... http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/sigh.gif

[almost star]

<When did you know it was time to Slow Down?>

Glucosamine, chondroitin, msm

lots of time under the shower massager

Switched to dressage (don't feel like I'd bounce back from getting pitched off o/f anymore) and am Totally Captivated by it.

Hope you feel better.

[x]

Yup.
I know right where you are.
Same way; I made my living breaking unbroke horses--some tough ones that others wouldn't or couldn't do. I figured by the time I was 30 I'd have to be out of breaking...I made it a bit longer, but not much. What I did was gradually refocus on another aspect of the horse business...that way, I still do what I like doing without the high risk of climbing onto the backs of completely unbroke horses. I'll still do the unbroke one on occasion...but I've learned to work a little smarter; do I need to introduce that baby to a scary-looking fence? I'll do it on the longe line first. Do I need to work with that horse that I know likes to stand on its hind legs out of the blue? I take care of the problem on the ground in long-lines first. Do I have to ride one that I know is prone to pitching? I'll wear my safety vest as well as my helmet. What I am not doing, though, is climbing on 6, 7 or 8 unbroke babies a day any more. I, personally, have also modified my competetive goals...I, too wanted to do Grand Prix, but for me at this point it isn't viable financially or time-wise...doesn't mean I still can't jump and show, though. I just can't take the long amounts of time off to travel the circuit and spend the big $$ doing so...and right now I don't care to. But I certainly can still hone my riding skills and show at a level/location I can manage so that if at some point I choose to I can.

[Esquire]

In my mid 30s I started to realize that just riding wasn't enough anymore, I needed to run, to work out at the gym, I needed more to stay fit. I think that helped with the strength part too and has made me still feel comfortable. But I think we all know exactly what you are saying and have been through it in our own ways. Just don't do anything too crazy, youngsters can be quite the challenge (rewarding, but a handful).

[McVillesMom]

I'm 31 and changed from jumpers to eventing about 5 years ago...how crazy is that?! Especially with a sometimes less-than-reliable horse (OTTB that I got 6 years ago, and boy was he nuts when I got him!) Fortunately, although I have broken bones in the past, I'm not in too bad of shape. I do know what you mean, though. I did things in my teens that I wonder what I was thinking (like jump my even less reliable 15.2 Appaloosa over a Rolex fence at the Horse Park!) I've definitely gotten more chicken!

[ponyhunterjumper]

It is amazing to hear 30 somethings think of being old and slowing down. I, too broke lots of greenies and trained risky horses, well into my 40's in fact. I do try to limit the bad ones, as I have a lot of neck problems. One does realize after many years in the saddle that there are some horses that are not worth the risk. Having said that, I keep being talked into "fixing" many horses twenty and thirty-somethings, even good riders, are having problems with, which makes me laugh because I am getting so old they should be "fixing" them for me! I guess I have just always had the touch with solving horse problems and getting the best out of a horse. It is the one thing I do better than anything else in my life, and I just really enjoy riding and jumping. I am now 48 and cannot believe some of the horses I still ride. I do believe I hang on tighter than I used to (for fear of actually having to hit the ground or some other object). Once in a while a horse gets the better of me, and it was not too long ago I went sailing more than 30 feet over a water jump from a 17 hand horse at a full gallop counting off the seconds before I hit the dirt. I do have lots of pain, much more than in my 30's. I know how many horses I have dismounted in my life every time I have to get off another one on a cold night and my knees hurt from the shock of hopping down. My lower arms get shooting pains that are almost unbearable and completely numb fingers in the mornings, I am so stiff I can hardly move. But, as long as I can drag myself up on that horse for the first ten minutes, I loosen up and actually feel a whole lot better than if I were to slow down and not ride anymore because I am "too old." I hope I am fortunate enough to be riding and jumping when I am 101 years old like that Western rider in California several years ago who only died because her horse slipped on wet ground and fell on her in an accident. What I still have a hard time with is having the same old-age wrinkles while still actively riding as so many people my age who gave up riding years ago and cannot do it anymore because they did not keep up with the riding fitness. I hope I never get too old to ride, despite the injuries and pain, because I cannot imagine not doing the thing I most enjoy in my life.

[Dancetil3]

I totally understand what you are going through. I turned 40 last September, and it's been all downhill. I fell off a 17 hand Percheron/TB cross after an oxer and broke my right thumb...a thumb, I thought, no big deal. Well, by the time the thumb (casted) had healed I had developed adhesive capsulitis ("frozen shoulder") in the right shoulder and have been in physical therapy since September with more to go. I had broken bones before and been casted and never had any residual effects...but I was younger then. Since all of this happened, I have pretty much written off jumping again, but I want to continue to ride and focus on dressage and helping my hunter/jumper friends at their shows, etc.

Even if we decide to scale back in what we do, we can still be very involved with horses because there are so many things to do with them. I try to look at the Olympians, etc. who have been badly hurt and go on, but I'm afraid I don't find much solace in that because that is their livelihood, their jobs, so they really HAVE to continue through pain and injury where folks like me have other choices since riding is a hobby, not a job.

So when will YOU know when to scale back? Don't worry--your mind and body will tell you. Just listen closely.

[BarbB]

I'm with you.

But I hate to tell you....it just gets worse.
I'm in my fifties and the sound I make when I hit the ground isn't even THUD anymore.
It's more like SPLAT!
And it takes longer to just get up off the ground and figure out which way is up.

Only you can tell when it is worth it or not.
Maybe cutting down on the percentage of greenies? Or hiring some younger part time help for the greenies?

http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[PineHillFarm]

Thank you everyone for sharing your experiences!

JUSTJUMP>
At 30, you are not a fossil. But if you want to fulfil your aspirations, you must question not whether it's time to slow down, but whether it's time to get moving on actually bringing yourself closer to your goals.

Sounds like you might be ready to alter your job description from erratic greenie trainer to jumper prospect trainer, otherwise you will be jumping crossrails and teeny greenie fences for the rest of your life. Being a top jumper rider requires formation of longer term partnerships with your horses than it sounds like you have had. And surely you must figure out a way to remove yourself from a climate where the days are cold and dark--if you are going to get anywhere you have to get yourself to FL or CA or at least AZ or MI where the action is.

I really like that idea! I actually have been working on the idea of doing jumper prospects, and moving on with my riding. I currently lease space at a Jumper barn. The man who owns it is a horse trader now, but used to compete in grand prix. He has some REALLY nice jumpers with miles that come thru. I get to ride them and get training from him.
I have started a few of my juniors schooling my greenies for me while I train the from the ground!

X >

I am already ahead of you in the way I train my horses nowadays. I love the way you put it, Training SMARTER! But I feel like I am wimping out! I too, take less chances, and ALWAYS ride with my helmet!

PONYHUNTERJUMPER >>

in the mornings, I am so stiff I can hardly move. But, as long as I can drag myself up on that horse for the first ten minutes, I loosen up and actually feel a whole lot better than if I were to slow down and not ride anymore because I am "too old."

You couldn't have said it any better! That is exactly what I go through. I can hardly move in the morning, but after the first 10 minutes on horseback, I feel much better! But non of my doctors understand that.

[Madame Butterfly]

Everyone has a time clock. Some clocks runs longer than others. Some clocks just have more impulsion. And some clocks have a Divine battery.

[toowoomba2]

I think I started holding back a lot earlier. By about 28 I finally realized I wasn't immortal when it came to horses. The turning point was trying to get on a crazy young app that needed a few CC's of Ace before he could be ridden. As I led him, rearing, to the mounting block, throwing my leg over him while he spun and tried to lay down, I realized at that momment that life was more important than working with difficult horses.

I still love jumping, eventing, and driving, but I stick to older horses, or more predictable ones because the sport itself is risky - why make it worse with an unpredictable mount. That's what the young 20-something kids are for http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[buschkn]

I think we can all relate to what you are going through! I, too, am 30. I, too, have GP aspirations. I now have a horse to do it, but not the time for a couple more years. I am closer, and farther, from my goals than ever! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif My knees often get a bit creaky when I jump big jumps, and I worry that by the time I have the time and money to get to the big jumps and big shows, that my body won't let me anymore.

But I think what every else has said is right. For starters, age is an idea, not a number really. I know a guy who did his first three day at the age of 70, and still rides now, in his 80s! Never heard him complain once.

There are things that we can do to make it better, like working out (with WHAT time and WHAT energy!?!), and taking joint supplements. And also, by riding smarter. I used to ride anything and everything that would come along. I loved a challenge. If a horse was unruly and bad for it's rider I'd be the first to say let me at it, I'll fix it! Now I just shake my head and think, "poor slob". http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif I still ride greenies, but you have to be picky. Only ride ones with reasonable temperments, not just anything that comes your way.

It is hard to accept the aches and pains and the not-bouncing-but-THUDding. But at least we are still out there doing what we love! And as someone else mentioned, there are always other horses, other disciplines, and other venues, for our love of horses if the one we are in now becomes too much.

Good luck with the aching bones! I'm right there with you!

[Irish Ei's]

OMG..thought I'd finally found the menopausal clique....NOT
I'm 51 and just moved up from a stick n spur quiet TB (except when he jumps!!!) to a way forward but going nowhere fast WB who wins EQ divisions in the AA circuit...
Maybe I WILL put a whole course together before I die!!!
This guy is just plain fun!!!
But, dead safe....

[Madame Butterfly]

My guy is a crazy Thoroughbred, incredibly athletic, who has now decided he likes to rear. Today I pushed him away from flirting with a bitchy mare across the fence, and he reared at me, .... And he almost tried it when I was I'm on him. But I'll tell you, I've never trusted a horse more over a fence.

[War Admiral]

I'm 46 and I have to admit this latest incident (broken L1/2 vertebrae) has really made me think about throwing in the towel. My brain tells me I really *should*, my heart says no way!!

Since quitting jumping, I've flirted w/ saddle seat but I must confess that the idea of a really game show horse (which I'll probably need within the next 2 years if I keep doing it) is starting to worry me a bit.

x, thank you for an inspiring post with different training techniques for us older folk... That's sort of the approach I took w/ Avery and it paid off in spades. But... will it work a second time with another OTTB, one wonders... Avery had and has a pretty exceptional brain, and I don't know that I'll be lucky enough to find another one like that.

[Dustin Hoofman]

Have you guys thought about getting a physical?? There may be things you could do to reduce pain and achiness. Honestly, though, I'm happy to say that I am pushing 40 and having a great time with my riding. I ride greenies and still do the jumpers and I'm pleasantly surprised that I seem to have about the same level of bravery as I did when I was younger. Of course, I now refuse to ride the really stupid horses, but that's been the case since I was about 20.

I know that I will have to slow down at some point, but since we're old for waaaay longer than we're young, I think I'll delay the slowing down process as long as possible. I'm trying to be the poster child for aging well http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Scootie]

There are a lot of individual factors involved too.

I never got to learn to ride well enough to compete, break youngsters, etc., when I was young--my father made sure my riding opportunities were severly limited. It was "too dangerous". http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

Then life went on...I actually kind of lost interest for a while (except for a period of about three years in my 20's that I took weekly lessons) and only in the last four years have had a chance to pursue riding as seriously as I wanted to when I was a kid. I have actually surprised myself. Four years ago I thought I would never even canter again. Cantering came back easily, jumping didn't. I'm still working on that and finally this summer could make it all the way around a 2'6" course without having a disaster. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

I also have some potentially dangerous physical issues (causes me to have a very poor base of support) dating back at least to my teens, and only this year did I finally find an orthopedic specialist who could so something about it. Needless to say, we had some MAJOR breakthroughs this past summer. Even before that time, my trainer kept saying he never thought I would get as far as I had. Recently, he said he was now "fascinated" by just how far I could go. Actually I am too--I am not a person who can be satisfied with just bopping along and not constantly refining my skills.

So at 52, I have no really specific goals, other than to continue to expand my skills and knowledge base to be the best rider I can with what I have to work with. I'm lucky that I can work part time and get away with it, so I can put in a lot of time at the barn. I'm in better shape that I have been in a long, long time.

I agree with Dustin Hoofman in that having physical limitations checked out--many problems associated with getting older can be alleviated if not eliminated. I think if I were told that I had something that would preclude riding, I would definitaly get at least a second opinion.

On the other hand, nobody should HAVE to pursue further than they feel comfortable with. But not everybody loses their cravings for adreneline (sp?) as they get older. Or their desire to be a "lifetime learner" (actually good protection against dementia). Some of us simply are not satisfied until we reach a certain level, no matter how old we are.

Speaking of the 101 year old riding instructor who only recently passed away (I think she actually taught English riding), I'd like to still be riding if I live to be that age. If so, I hope to be at least 1/2 as good a horsewoman as she was. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Babs]

ggiiirrrll just wear an eventer vest when you jump or better ALL the time - this way when you fall you get up laughing, not curding. It can help prevent some real $%^&*@#! bruises and ouches.

And for inspiration - Harry Deleyer, show jumper trainer and rider, now breeding, training and competing his home breds - at age 77! I am inspired to start jumping again, and hey I am a spring chicken at 40+ If he can jump 4 foot oxers hey I can tackle the 2 footers for now!

Good luck and be careful.

[tuffy]

Boy I'm 34 and going to be 35 in a few months. My mother is a trainer so I do ride some greenies. However hearing trainers talk about different times they have gotten hurt breaking young horses and the pains they have from all the times they have gotten hurt is bad. So I wouldn't break young horses after they were broke enough to get on I wouldn't get on if they were nuts. It just isn't worth getting hurt over. I now don't like to ride TB's unless they are 4 or older. I to want to move up the levels in the jumpers and was waiting till I could make a jumper and went through a few horses that just weren't going to have enough jump or were better off in the hunter ring and did the hunters on them and then sold them. I got hurt this year and broke my knee cap in over 13 pieces and broke a place in my foot from a fall and horse hit my knee when he turned with his foot.While not being able to do anything and having to have 3 surgeries made me think about slowing down. However even with the pain I am able to still do the level 6 jumpers like I was before. Only been back riding since Sept. If you want it bad enough once you start riding and once I jump a few big fences I'm able to forget about the pain. Nice long hot showers and heat pads. I love the heat pads that last hours and have one on my knee a lot of times under my pants and what is so nice about them is you can't tell it is on my knee. However it seems like everytime I go to CVS I buy all the ones they have.

[mellsmom]

I sat down one day and came up with a few thoughts:

1) I don't have anything to prove to anyone other than myself.
2) I do not HAVE to ride that green/crazy horse.
3) It's ok to decide NOT to ride something and to pass it along to someone else.
4) I am satisfied with knowing that in my past, I have broken crazy horses and ridden them and trained them.... and I DON'T have to do it again.
5) If your head tells you that something isn't right...believe it..... you have enough experience to KNOW what's safe and what isn't.

I decided this in my mid 30's. I was running a small riding school and working full time. I found that after riding 3 horses a day my knees would ache. I finally gave up the barn, bought my own prospect and rode just for myself. Best decision I ever made. I still help friends of mine with their horses.. some things you can't give up..but if they are sort of iffy, I don't feel the need to SIT on them ;-)

[Janet]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR> OMG..thought I'd finally found the menopausal clique....NOT <HR></BLOCKQUOTE> Same here.

I'm 50(for another three weeks, anyway).

Yes, when I fall, it takes longer to heal- I still have twinges from bruised ribs from a fall over a year ago. But that doesn't make me want to cut back.

I am having a ball with Brain (4, rising 5, had him since he was 13 months) and when he is sold I'll get another baby.

And when Belle is sound again, I intend to move up from 3'6" jumpers to 3'9" jumpers, and from Training to Prelim (firsts for me).

And I am the CONSERVATIVE one in the family.

My "little sister" will be moving up to the **** level at Rolex, at the age of 48, in 2005

[findeight]

I never gave slowing down much thought until my recent wreck. At 55 I kind of assumed things would stay the same. True, I stopped riding the knotheads 10 years ago but saw nothing to slow me down on the horizon.
Getting bucked off really didn't affect my feelings, nobody could have stayed on.
BUT it was a fall I took last summer that started me thinking I might NEED to slow down a bit.
Stupid 2 foot fence on a bending gymnastic-I thought she'd just leave long, she chipped and I flipped off. Just did not react as quickly to keep my balance and could not regain it once lost-THAT scared me.

Showed a few weeks later and looked down a long line to a well built up 3' oxer, pressed and made it but when I looked at the next one off an equally long line??
Didn't want it. Neither did my 15 year old horse. We used to hunt that kind of thing and now????Not.

So, in light of the fact I truely believe I see some slow down in the reflex department and 2 of my last three falls have been those I believe I wouldn't have taken in years past...I am dropping down a division.

I have AGED OUT http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif
You know, I have read about some much older riders still active BUT when you read the details, they are in an age suitable division.

I shall become the queen of the speedbumps and continue to enjoy the sport.

Another 10 years and I may be looking for a sparkly evening gown and a pair of Hackneys http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Merry]

I'm turning 50 in a couple of months, but honestly, I feel great and ride better than ever! I'm finally living long enough to enjoy the benefits of experience.http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

However, it's hard to make it through a lonnnnnng day at a show. Recently I fell asleep in the golf cart at a show, and my trainer didn't want to wake me up, so she left me there... for like an hour, snoozing away at ringside!

I accept some limitations now, but I realize that at my age, once I curtail my riding activities, there's no regaining them. So I'm constantly weighing whether a particular challenge is worth the risk. For example, I don't do things like ride a baby when my dad is using the weed whacker. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

I think the hardest thing for me to accept is not winning medal classes anymore. That's hard for an aging Eq. Queen to accept! I have the knowledge and experience and guts. But I can't contort and hold my 49-year-old bones in the same position as a (much) younger rider. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/sadsmile.gif

[Lord Helpus]

My name is Pam and I am a horseaholic.

Until now I have not posted because I kept typing words and then deleting the posts. But, for those of you in your 30's who feel you are too old to keep doing it, may I say that you either 1. need to see a doctor because you might have a physical problem -- you should not hurt so much at your age; and/or 2. you don't REALLY want to do it that much anyway.

I am 55. I have broken my neck and had two fusion surgeries. I have had multiple broken bones. I have had peripheral neuropathy which has made my legs so weak I could not post and my hips joints are so bad after 50 years of riding that, on bad morings, they kill me. I am not worthy of an award for these multiple aches and pains -- they are merely part of riding for so long.

I am (finally) turning pro this year. I am going into business starting young horses for the AA hunter ring. I am extremely qualified to do it since I have been doing it for myself for decades.

I am doing it because I LOVE HORSES, I LOVE RIDING and I am damned if I am going to let a little thing like age or aches and pains stand in the way of doing what I love to do.

When I hear stories of people who have a heart attack in the hunt field at the age of 78 and die on their horse, I say "Aren't they lucky! They died doing exactly what they love to do right up until the last minute."

And, that's the way I intend to live my life.

You 30 and 40 somethings can catalogue your aches and fears and worry about falling. And, if you give up riding then it's because you don't have the need to do it deep inside you. And that's fine. Many people only ride for a portion of their lives and then move on to other things.

But, don't blame age. If you want to keep on riding you will find a way. You will make sure you stay fit. You will know that, after all your years in the saddle, innate balance counts for more than quick reflexes. And you won't be stupid; you will lunge first, you will put a bruise boy up on a looney tunes 3 year old. But, if it is important, you will suck it up and keep riding.

Because, unless you do, your life will not be the same.

Rant over. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Gold Dust]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Babs:
And for inspiration - Harry Deleyer, show jumper trainer and rider, now breeding, training and competing his home breds - at age 77! I am inspired to start jumping again, and hey I am a spring chicken at 40+ If he can jump 4 foot oxers hey I can tackle the 2 footers for now!

<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

And there it is in a nutshell. Don't think for one minute Harry doesn't have aches and pains that are not minimal compared to all of ours. He loves what he does. He has slowed down in his own way. This is in his blood and at 77 I cann't imagine doing what he does but some pros do. You gotta love this sport and he sure does.

[shade]

Oh mells mom you took the words right out of my mouth..LOL..I'm sneaking up on 51 and know when I hit the ground it's going to hurt then and for quite some time after that..and the first thing I grap in the AM is the advil bottle..I've been asked to train some youngsters this spring and I will certainly ask someone younger to hop on them for the first time to get some kinks out of them....the youngers still bounce..I don't..LOL..but I will keep riding until I can't stay on anymore or I bite the big one..

[findeight]

But not everybody is like him or his like and I see no reason to feel bad if you're not.

Big difference for those who started riding early in life and spent 6 days a week working to the 4' and higher levels and one who started later and does not have 45+ years of ingrained instinct over the fences.

As I think of my own situation, I haven't come off on the flat since breaking a colt in '81 or so.
After only 10 years jumping on a 2 lessons a week schedual due to career, I probably never did have as much of that instinct to lose in the first place as a lifelong rider over fences.

And I want my horses in life and intend to keep one till the end...and I'm just modifying my own goals a bit.

[imapepper]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Lord Helpus:
My name is Pam and I am a horseaholic.

Until now I have not posted because I kept typing words and then deleting the posts. But, for those of you in your 30's who feel you are too old to keep doing it, may I say that you either 1. need to see a doctor because you might have a physical problem -- you should not hurt so much at your age; and/or 2. you don't REALLY want to do it that much anyway.

I am 55. I have broken my neck and had two fusion surgeries. I have had multiple broken bones. I have had peripheral neuropathy which has made my legs so weak I could not post and my hips joints are so bad after 50 years of riding that, on bad morings, they kill me. I am not worthy of an award for these multiple aches and pains -- they are merely part of riding for so long.

I am (finally) turning pro this year. I am going into business starting young horses for the AA hunter ring. I am extremely qualified to do it since I have been doing it for myself for decades.

I am doing it because I LOVE HORSES, I LOVE RIDING and I am damned if I am going to let a little thing like age or aches and pains stand in the way of doing what I love to do.

When I hear stories of people who have a heart attack in the hunt field at the age of 78 and die on their horse, I say "Aren't they lucky! They died doing exactly what they love to do right up until the last minute."

And, that's the way I intend to live my life.

You 30 and 40 somethings can catalogue your aches and fears and worry about falling. And, if you give up riding then it's because you don't have the need to do it deep inside you. And that's fine. Many people only ride for a portion of their lives and then move on to other things.

But, don't blame age. If you want to keep on riding you will find a way. You will make sure you stay fit. You will know that, after all your years in the saddle, innate balance counts for more than quick reflexes. And you won't be stupid; you will lunge first, you will put a bruise boy up on a looney tunes 3 year old. But, if it is important, you will suck it up and keep riding.

Because, unless you do, your life will not be the same.

Rant over. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Your rant made me smile http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Jodigurl]

Lord Helpus, maybe you lost a few brain cells along with your bumps and bruises. I too have had several broken bones, neck fusion surgery and all the aches and pains that come with weather changes and getting up at o-dark thirty in the morning.

I am not totally out of riding, but I sure don't miss the adrenaline rushes I used to crave! Apparently you still need those "rushes" - go for it!

You don't have to quit riding, but sometimes you need to re-adjust your priorities! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

[Underdog]

LordHelpUS...great post. I recently kicked myself to get back on the treadmil for a good 20min/day jog so I can stay riding fit and maintain better balance.
I find that I have to work out in addition to riding, but I only ride 3x/week.
At 43, those 3x/week are still on the more difficult ones at the barn, since my mare is due to deliver. I'll ride just about anything, just to ride.

X had some fabulous points I was thinking while reading thru the posts. Definitely work smarter. My bet is most of those hotter hacks have some holes in their short careers and need to go back to work on the ground. Hell...I plan to start my mare over fences when baby is weaned, BUT I will send her over everything scary thru a jump chute many times first. For now....I like to work with them on flatwork doing basic dressage excercises.
For the most part...I've always had to do everything myself as I wasn't born with a silver spoon, but so much more rewarding.

Now I wonder if that red gelding will be successful in getting me off his back as he's tried the last few times out. Nawww, I got a big cushy dressage saddle to keep me in, plus...it's mind over matter.
http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Lord Helpus]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Jodigurl:
Lord Helpus, maybe you lost a few brain cells along with your bumps and bruises. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_eek.gif http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Jodigurl, You betcha -- I have lost many brain cells over the years. But not all of them have been due to riding. Although the concussion I got last summer probably killed off a couple billion.

But that's OK. They say that people who are semi comatose actually have a longer expected lifespan because they do not have the stress that normal people do. If that's the case, I will live to be 100. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/winkgrin.gif

[Janet]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR> My name is Pam and I am a horseaholic.
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Yep Thats it. My father STILL keeps hoping we are going to "grow out of horses"!

PS- I am about to send you a PT.

[2ndyrgal]

It's not the age, it's the miles.

[Janet]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by 2ndyrgal:
It's not the age, it's the miles. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE> How so?

[Plumcreek]

I have little to add to the previous great advice. I am 55, ride/train my own at home alone, and am intact and pain free. I am very, very careful. What I have learned:
1. No one cares if you ride the tough horse or not. Your body is more important than your ego.
2. A great 40th birthday present to yourself is self-permission to send babies to cowboy school for 3 months.
3.. Pay attention to premonitions about that pumped up horse/weather front moving in. The longe line is your friend.
4. Flat greenies in a western saddle. You can often grab the horn and haul yourself back in the saddle. Heck, I flat mostly in a western saddle, a model without the lump under your knee.
5. I don't ride greenies over a jump until they can organize themselves consistently over a trot pole and 2' oxer on the longe line.
6. There are many riding choices available as our lives change. Reining offers the same high level of adrenaline filled competition as jumping, with considerably less chance of injury - more prize money too.

Now I had better go knock on wood for a few minutes.

[perf]

my 'age idol' has to be Merran Hain (http://www.hoy.co.nz/images/Bell-Tea-Hain-B93-27gr.jpg)
she's a New Zealander (yay) who turned 60 this year and is still competing at World Cup level (very successfully!)

here is a little rundown
• Winner of Olympic Cup and Lowry Medallion 1999
• Winner of Lowry Medallion 7 times
• Winner Horse of the Year title 1999 and 2003
• Winner NZ Lady Rider of the Year 1968, 1987, 2004 and 2004
• Winner Working Hunter of the Year 2003
• Fourth World Cup Series 2002-2003
• 5th in Grand Prix Series 2002-2003
• Winner Heavyweight Hunter HOY 2002 with Vital
• NZ Representative in all three Olympic Disciplines
• Finished in 2nd place in World Cup Series 2004
• Won 2003-2004 Bomac Grand Prix Series

she was winning the lady rider of the year championship before I was born, and she's still riding at a level I can only hope to get to one day. Absolutely amazing.

[Claudius]

Merran Hain is cetainly a great inspiration to us all. I have gone through many phases in my riding. Fearless professionalism, and then after having a child, fearful amateurism. I believe that when you feel fearful, you need to be intelligent and respect yourself....as with a horse that loses its confidence, you go back to square one and build slowly. This has worked for me through three children, a few bad falls, some hiatuses.....ride at a level you are comfortable with and advance slowly. Respecting fear will protect you from injury...denying it, or being ashamed of it is only counter productive. Your gut feelings are your best guide.

[Madame Butterfly]

I guess it's time to slow down when I'm dead.

I like that Merran Hain...

[Dancetil3]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Janet:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by 2ndyrgal:
It's not the age, it's the miles. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE> How so? <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

LOL. First of all, she's paraphrasing a great Indiana Jones quote: "It's not the age. It's the mileage." Or was it "It's not the years. It's the mileage." LOL. Anyway, what 2ndyrgal means is that it isn't necessarily how long you've been riding, but what has happened to you during those years. Some of us fly off more frequently than others. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/winkgrin.gif

[hillary]

This thread's hilarious! thanks guys, I needed a laugh. Merry, just for us: I am going to start RIGHT NOW campaigning for a rule change, so that Money can be awarded in equitation. Why not - I think QH shows give it already. There's enough exceptions on the amatuer ruling that this one could fly. THEN, I am looking for sponsors - 50 and over Equitation! Think of the demographics - sponsors line up here to reach 50+ Equitation Stars....DQs, you just watch out....And so, we will have our revenge - no USEF medal for us, how about the $5,000 "Masters" Eq challenge?

[malarkey]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Lord Helpus:
I am doing it because I LOVE HORSES, I LOVE RIDING and I am damned if I am going to let a little thing like age or aches and pains stand in the way of doing what I love to do.

When I hear stories of people who have a heart attack in the hunt field at the age of 78 and die on their horse, I say "Aren't they lucky! They died doing exactly what they love to do right up until the last minute."

And, that's the way I intend to live my life.
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
Wow. I'm with you Pam. Granted, I'm not turning pro (and BTW, congrats on that, and goddamit, GOOD FOR YOU!!) Its like what Merry said, if I give it up now, I might not get it back. And goddamit, I'm NOT giving it up till they pry it from my cold dead fingers. Well, you get the picture.

I would drop into a serious funk if I had to give up riding. SERIOUS. So I intend to do everything in my power to stay fit & keep riding, even if it is just trail rides with a haul-ass gallop thrown in here and there. I want to return to jumping more and showing more and I intend to field hunt till I die, and quitting riding "for a few years" isn't an option anymore IMO when you hit this age. I'm 47, and I have no intention of quitting. I can't. So here's to hangin' in there, no matter what the age, no matter what the goals. I'm one of those people who NEEDS it, can't live without it.

oh, and I switched to a "closer to the ground" type a few years ago http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

[Merry]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by hillary:
Merry, just for us: I am going to start RIGHT NOW campaigning for a rule change, so that Money can be awarded in equitation... THEN, I am looking for sponsors - 50 and over Equitation! Think of the demographics - sponsors line up here to reach 50+ Equitation Stars.... <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
Well, ya' know, the AQHA now has the Bayer Select World Show ONLY for amateur riders 50 and over... and it's a HUGE success! Tons of corporate sponsors, tons of entries, tons of great prizes. And no juniors or 20-something ammies to ride against. So we could have our ribbons and our naps! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Underdog]

This thread is great.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>So here's to hangin' in there, no matter what the age, no matter what the goals. I'm one of those people who NEEDS it, can't live without it. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I feel one of those *Budweiser salute to..* radio commercials comin on here. LOL

[PineHillFarm]

LORD HELP US &gt;&gt; I am doing it because I LOVE HORSES, I LOVE RIDING and I am damned if I am going to let a little thing like age or aches and pains stand in the way of doing what I love to do.

My feelings exactly!

[PineHillFarm]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by shade:
Oh mells mom you took the words right out of my mouth..LOL..I'm sneaking up on 51 and know when I hit the ground it's going to hurt then and for quite some time after that..and the first thing I grap in the AM is the advil bottle..I've been asked to train some youngsters this spring and I will certainly ask someone younger to hop on them for the first time to get some kinks out of them....the youngers still bounce..I don't..LOL..but I will keep riding until I can't stay on anymore or I bite the big one.. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>


<span class="ev_code_PURPLE">I will keep riding until I can't stay on anymore or I bite the big one..</span>
~ I couldn't have said it better myself!

[YankeeTurnedHillbilly]

Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving
safely in a pretty and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in
broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly
proclaiming--
'WOW, what a ride!!'

[PineHillFarm]

Thank you all for your encouraging words, and shared trials & tribulations! I really needed to hear your experiences!

[Zig]

I just thought I would share this funny story -- I was at a dressage show last summer and I saw my inspiration -- a "more mature" woman of (I'm guessing) in her mid-70s - riding second level with an oxygen tank on her back! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

I approached her and talked to her for about an hour and all I could think of is -- I hope I still have your "get up and go" when Im that age. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

[JustThatSimple]

Aww, Zig that's too funny.

My mom broke racehorses for the track in her previous years, she has nicely handed over the job of starting horses to me now as she can't stand the cold and has seen one to many fence rails close up to continue doing it. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gifShe still manages to nag about what we're doing wrong though. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

[UNBRIDLED4U]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Sparky:
I turned 59 this year. My riding career has gone from barrel racing and pole bending in my teens to Grand Prix dressage in my twenties, to hunters in my thirties and forties, to a Western Pleasure horse at the moment, and since I made a silly bet 13 years ago with my daughter in law, will progress to a hackney pony when I turn 60. Thank God there's always a new direction to turn, that involves smaller horses that are much closer to the ground http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>


Sparky, you are an inspriration! Gret website too.

[Horsepower]

Hi guys. I am in the later half of my 50s. I am concerned about my slower reflexes after taking a bad fall last year. A recent fall this year, which was a minor one, left me more hurt than I would have expected. I came home from that fall thinking I must be nuts and maybe I should switch to playing golf at this age. Well, I called a friend to say hi and she told me a friend was out playing golf with her husband and he gunned the golf cart before his wife was fully on the cart. She went flying and broke her collar bone, wrist, and almost lost her other arm it was so pulverized. They're not sure how much use of it will remain. This taught me a lesson. Do what you like to do, as you can get hurt doing anything. I'd rather break an arm riding than golfing! (P.S. Obviously, I hope this woman gets all better.)

[happy mouth]

Oh lordy, Horsepower, I just knew golf was dangerous, and NOT FOR ME. Take the four legged any day. If you're going to get hurt, at least do it doing what you love. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

[just_me]

I'm 54 and I have a very strong TB who loves to jump. My daughter showed him as a jumper before she went to college. My trainer and I are trying to get him going as a hunter (no way I could remember a jumper course even if I had the nerve to do one http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/winkgrin.gif ) I haven't shown in years, and truthfully, I don't have the nerve that I had when I was in my 20s.

I've slowed down in some respects, but not in others. I still hop on him and go trail riding (even by myself). After the hurricanes I was jumping him over downed trees on the trail. I jump him in the ring, but not as high as I did when I was younger.

I guess you could say I was more cautious than I used to be, but I hope I never have to give up riding.

I have a bad back and severe tendonititis is both arms and I'm in pain most of the time, but riding is so important to me that I pop a couple of Aleve (though now I'll have to switch to something else http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_frown.gif ) and I keep riding.

The original poster might want to give up all the green bean riding and start working towards her real riding goals. That'll probably cut down on the injuries.

[Flash44]

I stopped galloping at the track in '95, that was slowing down for me. I'm 37 now, and I will have nothing to do with bad acting horses. There are enough good ones out there that someone else can deal with the bad ones.

[Countryhawk]

I found that I don't get on other people's problem horses as I age (46 yo now). Minor stuff I'll get on, but the bad actors I won't do. I'm still getting on my babies, and ottb, but I'm not eventing or showing anymore, tho I may try again the jumper or hunter ring once my dtr is off to college. My concession was to buy a three step mounting block. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif I find I just can't get on them with a short mounting block, forget getting up off the ground.

[Scootie]

I've been away from this thread for a few days, but all I want to say is "YAAAAY Lord Helpus".

I think the important thing lies in each person's set of values--what to them is important, and what for them makes their life worthwhile. For some this means "slowing down", for others this definitely means "don't stop." I do believe in the maxim of "use it or lose it," so making changes in the intensity or risk level of any activity should not be taken too lightly.

I will admit to sometimes feeling a little "imposed upon" by the mention of slowing down--I had someone a while back ask me why I couldn't just enjoy a nice quite walk with my horse instead of trying to work through some bad behavior (not extreme and with help from the trainer). The truth was that a nice quiet walk just didn't blow my bloomers--for me there is real pleasure in taking on a challenge and succeeding, and frankly I happen to be one of those "adrenalin-o-holics" that just can't tolerate a whole lot of quiet leisure.

On the other hand, if someone else would prefer to just go for nice walking trail rides for the rest of their life, there's a part of me that really couldn't blame them! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

I don't have experience with, say, starting green beans, but this is more due to lack of opportunity than lack of desire. At 52 I don't really plan on this as a goal for my horsey development. But surely, I want to be able to ride well enough to do so!

[Countryhawk]

Scootie, a nice long walk? argh! I for one am not ready for that yet. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif In fact I have the kids at the barn asking me to do things that they don't dare to do. &lt;G&gt; Wonder if they are seeing if the old mother can do it? or are they trying to kill me? http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_confused.gif

[Plumcreek]

Having fun reading this thread!
Here are riding endeavors that you can do when you are older that are not slow trail riding in the park. They offer low risk of injury or crashing, and take experience, skill, a good horse, and sometimes adrenaline, as in reining.

A) Older but funcrional: Dressage, Reining (see Bea's video find - Scroll down to the video clip) http://www.kebra.com/gunner.asp,
AQHA 50 and over division (all the regular classes) with its own World Show, including hunter-jumper classes starting at at 2'6".

B) Older and decrepit: AQHA and Paint show Trail - very, very tough and no one falls off, Western Pleasure classes - a blind guy competed successfully with someone coaching him through an ear piece, Pleasure Driving - an older lady in a wheel chair showed at the World Show level.

I'm sure there are lots more. No Golf!

[cherham]

I am 46 years young right now and after years of breeding and showing horses all my life I finally have bred that one really special horse to concentrate my riding on.

He is 6 years old now....and I will be taking him into the dressage ring (after an absence of showing myself for about 12 years) next spring.

I hope to compete with him as far as this body of mine will allow.....and in 5 1/2 years I will be able to retire from my full time job and then work with him full time really seriously.

I know I will be in my 50's by then and people will think I am crazy trying to keep up with all the youngsters out there but what the heck????? Its a life long dream to able to compete at the International level and with this horse and lots of hard work I think anything is truly possible.

Just look for me one day.....how old was the oldest Olympian...a dressage rider at 70 plus years of age. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Duffy]

I keep having these "situation-forced haituses" from riding as much as I would like and get nervous that I won't get back to my previous form, for what that is worth http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif . I have found that working out at the gym during these times (AND when I'm riding regularly) help my confidence because I AM more strong and fit. Hopefully, I can get myself back in shape while I ride my OTTB babies! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Duffy]

Ok, you guys won't believe this, or maybe you would http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif .

I was just too lazy to get up out of my desk chair to put something away in an upper cabinet shelf and my freaking chair (on wheels) went out from underneath me! My underarm, neck, and tailbone are freaking KILLING me! So much for riding being hazardous to my health! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

Ok, it's now only been about 10-15 minutes since my spill and now my knee and head hurt as well! How ridiculous, yet oh-so-normal for me. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif (Yup - already have taken the requisit Advil. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif )

[Blinky]

LH,
Congrats on turning Pro! We all know you have a great eye for horses so we can't wait to see what you have to sell. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

It's been mentioned but the key as we all get older is not only to be "riding fit" but to be fit in general.

[crackerjack]

This thread is great! In about two weeks I am turning 30, I've ridden for 22 years and for most of that 22 years it's been the greenies.... At this point in my life with more responsibility - work, house, family etc I'm thinking thank goodness there's teenagers to ride all those greenies... give me my BB any day (he was, I swear the easiest greenie I ever had to deal with). He's now a point and shoot horse and is incredibly dependable. And I also feel my physical self becoming older... back, knees, hip (thats the latest) and I know I know I should be doing my exercises everday....

But I totally agree with what mellsmom said

"I sat down one day and came up with a few thoughts:

1) I don't have anything to prove to anyone other than myself.
2) I do not HAVE to ride that green/crazy horse.
3) It's ok to decide NOT to ride something and to pass it along to someone else.
4) I am satisfied with knowing that in my past, I have broken crazy horses and ridden them and trained them.... and I DON'T have to do it again.
5) If your head tells you that something isn't right...believe it..... you have enough experience to KNOW what's safe and what isn't."

My New Years resolution this year is to get back excersising so I don't feel so stiff all the time - therefore making my riding a lot easier... at 30 I know I shouldn't feel so old physically... 'cos I do know that mentally i swear I'm no older than 25 http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[bumknees]

As my body ages faster then i do I find that I have slowed down allot... At 41 my body is closer to 80 something and thinks of ways to keep me off blalance.. right now itis either a torn acl or something unknkown in the hip... have dr's apt on tues to find out what the heck is going on...
Right now my speed is going out and cuddling with ducktape... and playing with him an making his ouchies go away... i do hae a friend form colege that has offered to come out and retrain him in the spring so I may take her up on that at that point he wil be off the track for about a year...
when i was younger and my body wasnt such a practile joker I thought not a second thought to getting on a horse that was lessthen wonderufl in presonality but now... I go thud.
I do try to keep limbe by doing karate both kempo and a ti chi form which helps me alot course our soke understands that I may be training one week and laid up the next due to body inficted injury...

[Feenikks]

Ok this is sad http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

Me: late 20's and I have also slowed down ... very much!! Benn riding for 19 years now, been there done that.. broke race babies, jump 4' on a horse that would take it or leave it... NO FEAR...

Now, I have a horse with oodles of potential... wasted potential because I will not jump that 3'6 fence with him... I am happy trail riding or plodding around jumping a 2' 2'3 fence here and there..
I don't want to and cannot get hurt, the horses depend on me everyday to care for them.

I went from riding hot hot hot TB's to a nice drafty X! haha It happens, just sad how early it does happen!

[findeight]

But it is only as sad as you make it.
I think that's a huge mistake that does make you old.

You need to redo your goals and find something just as tough to accomplish-even if it's not over a 3'6" fence. Life throws us alot of curves and you really do need to bend or you will break, just like the old proverb says.

Tons of ways to enjoy horses.

[Lord Helpus]

Ohhhh, Duffy,

I feel so bad that I did not commiserate with you when you said you had fallen. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/cry.gif I fall down a lot because I am a klutz -- so I didn't appreciate that you had really hurt yourself. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

Your horse is saddled and ready for you (well, proverbially, not actually, as that would be a little silly to saddle him 3 days early http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif) so I hope you are feelin' fine by this weekend.

Yes, Duffy and I, whose combined age is over 100, http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif are going to go cantering through the woods, jumping log jumps, post and rails and aikens as we get to them and thoroughly enjoying a love of horses this weekend.

So fie on age and slowing down. MAD, whose age would add another significant number of decades onto the total http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/winkgrin.gif, had not ridden in over 6 months and she and da Bear man jumped everything they came across, including a series of logs that never seems to end. I think there are about 15 jumps with about 30 strides between each of them. Its really fun, but you had better be in good shape to keep on going! (Both horse and rider were a tad pooped at the end. We walked home after that. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif)

[Scootie]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Countryhawk:
Scootie, a nice long walk? argh! I for one am not ready for that yet. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif In fact I have the kids at the barn asking me to do things that they don't dare to do. &lt;G&gt; Wonder if they are seeing if the old mother can do it? or are they trying to kill me? http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_confused.gif <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I think it's because to them it's such an anomaly...after all, one's OLD MOTHER is supposed to be sitting down, embroidering tea cozies with a cat on her lap, no? At least I sometimes get that impression from certain offspring of mine. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/dead.gif

And for whoever suggested it, Dressage is out of the question. There is nothing wrong with Dressage...that just doesn't blow my bloomers either. Actually, I'm not about to get into anything that involves putting my behind into whitie-tighities in public! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/winkgrin.gif http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

Also, after years and years of wanting to learn to "really ride" which to me meant JUMPING, and only being allowed the occasional visit to the local trail barn, anything that involves a Western Saddle is out too. I don't have to do that anymore, I don't want to, so I won't. Kind of like when George Bush the Elder when he reminded us that now that he was President of the United States, he did not have to eat broccoli any more! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

On the other hand, I really don't see myself ever jumping 3'6", but it was only a short while ago I could not see myself CANTERING again, so I know better than to project what is in the future for ME. And others are not invited to try.

In the long run, there is a lot of personal preference involved in how intensely or not we make our horse experience. But this is true at all ages. I don't think one person should try to "prescribe" for another simply based on chronological age. The whole process is far too complex.

[Snowbird]

Well now on this topic I am an expert. You don't have to decide because being aged slows you down and that's why time seems to go much faster.

You stop riding when your reflexes have slowed down to the point where the correction that needs to be made takes so long to do that it's too late. Old bones don't bounce well and it's harder to roll so it's probably not in enough time to get out of the way.

Otherwise it's not bad at all. Actually, I've enjoyed these later years because since there is no concern about what will be tomorrow you can be honest and say what you think and do what you're able and is still available. Youngsters have to worry about their future and prepare for their old age, I don't have that worry anymore because it's here.

I will say there are some pleasures that are no longer available but then there are memories. Which is why old folks seem to be dozing in their rocking chairs but they're really remembering how great it was to be young and those special pleasures from the "good old days".

[mmaurer]

Well I am about to start my own green bean in a couple of days. And the 41 yr birthday is coming..honestly I wouldn't go back to training for a living again, even if my body would hold up. Heck, doing more than 15 wheelbarrows of manure leaves me hurting..but I look at my mom who is late 60's(exact age would get me hurthttp://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif
and she still hauls water, stacks bales, mucks stalls..(4 or 5) and puts me to shame. She gets the ouches and says" just keep moving they WILL go away" and she is right.

Oh did I mention she will offload 4 or more TONNES of bagged feed every couple of weeks..

[Snowbird]

Trust me at 75 I've seen all the years and the very best years are between 50 and 65.

[Countryhawk]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Scootie:
[I think it's because to them it's such an anomaly...after all, one's OLD MOTHER is supposed to be sitting down, embroidering tea cozies with a cat on her lap, no? At least I sometimes get that impression from certain offspring of mine. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/dead.gif

LOL, I have used a tea cozie, but never owned one. &lt;G&gt; It has been interesting to see the changes. I've always had velcro, and haven't lost that yet... I may sing a different tune once that happens. I don't event anymore. My choice. Only jumping small stuff at home, I'm not fat, but I don't feel like I'm light or agile enough to jump competitively. I have hopes that that will happen. This said by someone who will ride the ottb??? The kids at the barn think I still can ride anything. I may be able to but choose to be able to hobble along after the ride. If I ride at the trainers barn when there a masses of kids around, I go up to a pasture in the woods to ride there is a flat section of grass... Quiet and peaceful. I'll take my dtr or another rider if they can keep their mouth shut about going. &lt;G&gt;

[Scootie]

You know, to be honest...

I'm not even sure I know exactly what a tea cozy is. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif Isn't it something to cover a tea pot with to keep it warm? It just sounded like a good thing to say at the time. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

I think some of my issue does come from only finding the opportunities later in life that are best earlier on. So I am taking advantage of what I have now. Also, I am kind of on the fat side and my trainer honestly did not think I would be able to ride very well when I first came there. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/no.gif He did have the decency to not say anything until a couple years after I had a chance to prove him wrong. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

My primary physically limiting problems are actually never age or weight related--they are something I have had to deal with for a long time. Although I do think if I had been riding when I was younger they would probably have been less of an issue.

[wanderlust]

Well, I'm in my late 20's... not exactly what I consider to be "older", but the difference from when I was 17 is that I now know I am not invincible, and that when I come off, it is going to SUCK. So I mitigate the risks.

I sold my difficult two greenies, bought an older horse with some baggage but a good brain. When he is having "stupid days", we don't jump the bigger fences, or I get off and have a quick lunge, and then come at it again. I won't ride "crap", I won't ride "crazy" and I rarely ride "unknown."

I'm most likely taking a season off from eventing seriously and instead doing jumpers, so I can work on getting comfortable and confident jumping bigger fences that fall down, before I head for bigger fences that don't.

I've debated buying a youngster again to keep in the wings. If I do, it will be a weanling/yearling that I will start entirely myself, a clean slate. But more likely, I will end up buying older and broke who knows his job, so I can get closer to my goals. The babies can set you way back if you only have one horse.

But all that said, I'm NOT slowing down... I've actually raised the stakes. My goal in the next 2 years is to do the AO jumpers. And in many ways, I feel much safer jumping 3'6"+ fences on my current horse than I ever did starting a baby over crossrails. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

[Esquire]

It is interesting to read about the various views on this subject...age is really just a number and a state of mind, it is something that you wake up one day and say "I am older". I chuckle to read about 20 somethings starting to think about changing their rides, etc., and they are clearly not "older", but again, the whole state of mind concept. One of the absolute best things I have found about maturing (as I prefer to call it) is that you start to have "money" and if you are lucky, "more and more" of it...and, you don't have to ask you parents to spend theirs, so you can start to do what you want with it. For me, that translates into working very hard at my career so that I can afford to do this in a different way than I did as a junior (I had good horses, but nothing like what you see today, nor could my parents afford to send me to all of the shows that most juniors go to today). I can buy something that is nicer, safer, that gives me a more secure ride, that can be incredibly competitive, etc. I guess that translates into not having to "make something" or buy the young ones, or the "junkier" horses, just to have something to ride or because that is what your parents could afford. This really is an amazing sport, hobby, and one that you can stay with for many many years to come if you are smart about it, weigh the risks and consider what you are doing (like not getting on your horse if he hasn't been worked a few weeks and jumping a 3 6 course if you know what that is likely to produce). You just get more educated as you go along and that should keep the injuries down, for sure!

As I write all of this, I did, however, get some extra fancy insurance through my company...just in case I needed to take some time off due to a horse related injury. And that is not something I thought about doing until just this year, so go figure...

[Countryhawk]

What I think is funny or interesting, is that I mentally was more cautious when my kids were babies, couldn't go off and killing myself then could I? Tho I still got on our homegrown babies, since it came down to me.
Wasn't thrilled but did it. Once my youngest son got past 8, I wasn't worried about getting hurt, not that worried is the right word. I'm less cautious, got an ottb last fall and will get another ottb once we have room in the inn, I have an old girl here, that has outlived both her parents, so until she decides to cross the bridge, I won't have room for a new baby. I agree it is mental.
BTW a tea cozy sits over a tea pot to keep it warm. Heck I'm not that picky, I can drink it hot or cold. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

[findeight]

In some ways, age is just a number and state of mind but you are kidding yourself if you think that can go on forever.
Your body will age and change whether you like it or not and eventually it will change what you can do physically. We are actually more fortunate then other sports that wash up their elite at 30 or so.

You can sulk over that fact or accept it and just change your goals so you can stay in horses and stay active. You can drop dead at 96 off the back of a good horse...just maybe not in front of a 3'6" oxer or doing single tempi changes http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif.

[Madame Butterfly]

You can't go on forever. You're damn straight right about that. So you give yourself a timeframe for your incredible goal. And then, you get there, by hook or by crook.

Because you know that at the end of that time frame you must be at your peak of the sport, whatever that peak is...because after that point, it won't be as safe.

So nothing can stand in the way.

[ShaSamour]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by mellsmom:
1) I don't have anything to prove to anyone other than myself.
2) I do not HAVE to ride that green/crazy horse.
3) It's ok to decide NOT to ride something and to pass it along to someone else.
4) I am satisfied with knowing that in my past, I have broken crazy horses and ridden them and trained them.... and I DON'T have to do it again.
5) If your head tells you that something isn't right...believe it..... you have enough experience to KNOW what's safe and what isn't. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Agreed 100%. And I also agree with the "it's not the age, it's the mileage" thing. I'm 42 and riding better than I ever have. I am also in more pain than I've ever been in, thanks to several unplanned flying dismounts from the Palster over the last five years. The more you challenge yourself, the bigger the risks, I guess.

All that said, I know for myself that my time is limited before the arthritis in my lumbar/sacral spine and the torn rotator cuff finally get to me. Pal is going to be 16 in April, so I figure by the time he's ready to retire, I'll be ready to move on.

Actually, Mr. ShaSamour and I have an agreement. After Sam and Pal are gone, we're getting a boat.

[omuchacha]

"You can't go on forever. You're damn straight right about that. So you give yourself a timeframe for your incredible goal. And then, you get there, by hook or by crook.

Because you know that at the end of that time frame you must be at your peak of the sport, whatever that peak is...because after that point, it won't be as safe.

So nothing can stand in the way."

This statement by Madame Butterfly pretty much sums it up for me. I don't ride anything over fences, but I do have aspirations for a National award in my breed discipline. I've been working for it for the past 12 years, and it's got to happen in the next couple of years - and it not happening isn't an option. Though honestly I just bought a reining horse because I view that as safer and just as much fun as a hunter.

[jumperchamp]

Getting older doesn't always mean you have to stop riding...get a small horse...or a old horse. Relax with the greenies.

*~AA~*

**DREAM BIG!**

[RioTex]

So, I am one of those 30-somethings that had an eye-opening, life-changing fall three years ago. Should not have been a big deal, but I could not physically get on a horse for over two months and mentally, I was shot for a lot longer. Did not want to start last year's babies, so I put it off and put it off. In the meantime, I bought a super horse that someone else had started (a first for me) and he has done tons for the confidence.

I need to lose a lot of weight and sometimes the kness or back don't work like they should after a fall or a rough ride, but I brought in seven horses off the track this year and backed this year's crop of home-growns this weekend.

You don't have to slow down if you don't want to, you just have to think a little more about the easiest (maybe not always the quickest) way to get things done. I'm trying to decide if I should just send in the chaps to have them "expanded" or if I should lose the weight until I can get them on again.

I was getting ready for bed the other night and looked down at my right knee, noticed a rather impressive scar and thought, I bet that fall hurt, but it took me quite a while to remember when it happened. Ample supply of Advil, finding your own speed and having one solid horse makes it a lot easier to deal with the youngsters.

[LeesaM.]

I decidied to slow up (a little) when the broken bones and plates and screws started to talk back to me. Slow Down to me means no jumping without stirrups and I to sell my green horse that jumped so well I thought I would be launched.
The new horse I bought is 4 and a half and I hope to show him in the A/Os next year.
Slow down yes, hopefully I will be able to ride into my 70's. (That will be 20 years from now.)

[Eventer55]

Can't read through all the posts, but here I am an eventer. I did a sumersault off my horse 2 years ago and landed on my back. Nothing happened! I'm 50 and I won't let my age keep me off my horse. I have a good friend who is a trainer, broke her ankle an couple of years ago and was number 1 rider in her area last year.

If you're having problems at 30, uh oh. . . I plan on lasting another 20 years.

[RegalBeagle]

I am late to this thread and have thoroughly enjoyed it. Lord Helpus, Yeah and congratulations.

I've just signed up for Pilates twice a week. It seems at 51, riding 4x a week isn't keeping me a strong as I want and need to be, so I'm going to supplement my activity and see what effect it has.

Thanks all for the inspiration.

[Tory Relic]

I was reading this thread and about to cry when I read what some of the 30=something were saying. When I was in my late 20's I was out of riding because of a back injury. In my mid-30's, I started back. I was going to join a horse sharing program (Equishare, in Maryland, at Readymeade). I couldn't get on the TB mare they put me on and there wasn't a mounting block handy, so I said, give me a leg up (in my TB-on-the-track mentality, I figured the horse would be fine with that). I knew I was getting on a not-for-beginners horse, but even with five years off and a back injury, I was sure I could ride a not-for-beginners LESSON horse. Well, apparently no one had ever been legged up on this particular TB. I went up, and she went up and over (edited to clarify as sideways, instead of over backwards). But you know what? I hung on -- the instructor said I'd passed into intermediate rider right then and there, especially since the horse was spooky and I got her calmed down pretty quickly (I did go through the ride evaluation, though). Unfortunantly (oh, I can't spell that right, grr), right after that, I did something to my back that put it out again (I know what it was but it is, um, irrelevant &lt;G&gthttp://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif. So another couple years went by and I got married. My husband caught on really quickly about how important horses were to me, and that was only one of two marital promises he made to me: that I would have my own horse, not someone else's I leased or rented, my OWN.

This happened, but right at the same time that it happened, I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia. My body went to heck. I gained 80 lbs. I had to leave the job that I loved and where I was just becoming a success after years of paying my dues. I was a little, to put it lightly, depressed about this. We moved to SC, which is my home, from Virginia, which is his home. It's been three years, almost. I've gotten much better. My horse lives on property that belongs to me and my sister. She's a horse professional and takes care of the horse and rides her when I can't. I'd worked with her at the barn where she works, and I've been getting better physically. Then I read these kinds of post (and OP, PLEASE understand I'm not criticizing your or saying anything you feel is invalid....I haven't broken MY pelvis and I do not mean this as judgement of you, but my own reaction to what I've read) and I feel like it's not going to ever happen for me again, even though I have a nice mare that can take me around the local circuit and to some A shows held locally, if I want to do that (don't know yet). I have a job, I can't do the travel-around-the-country-for-points thing, and that's okay.

And I'm sorry this is so long and drawn out, it's January and my joints ache (even though, thank God, the fibromyalgia went to sleep two years ago and has stayed that way) from arthritis, so I'm maybe a little testy right now.

But then I read what shade and Merry and Lord Helpus (CONGRATS Pam on going pro!!!!) and other people my age (47) or older have written about how they manage, and it's an inspiration. You guys are all my heroes! x, I agree with you about training smarter, it's my opinion that not enough time is spent with horses on the ground anyway, which might avoid some spills, but with horses, there are always some. I have come off of my mare once, and it actually was a good thing for me, because I came out of it fine. Not a bad fall, she spooked and I wasn't paying attention. I remember hanging in the air and thinking, okay, you have to relax because you are going to hit the ground. Thankfully, it was SC sand and relatively cushy. I was barely even sore, I didn't lose my horse's rein -- she was standing there looking at me like "why are you down there?"!!

So, I'm not slowing down, I'm trying to get some of my old form back. I never competed, but I've been often told in lessons that I was a subperb rider and should. I was too busy paying those career dues I mentioned, didn't have time or money for showing then. Would have, about the time I hurt my back the second time and definitely would have had I not developed the fibromyalgia.

So, thanks, all of you 40-50 somethings for the inspiration and assurance it hasn't passed me by! Also, Snowbird for saying 50-60 was the best time! And RegalBeagle, I do Pilates. It works pretty well combined with some free weight training and aerobics (for me, that's swimming or walking).

[Whoaisme]

Oh to be 30 again!!!! Alot of Advil and determination at 52 will keep this fossil over fences going as long as she can- have raised a lovely hunter since he was 5 mos. old- broke him myself, and been through hell- he's now 5 and my dream of having an Amateur Owner hunter is coming true- this year the 3 foot -maybe again next year and then the AO's- I may be 55 at that point, but I'll take the aches and pains anytime- the only thing I worry about is the Alheimers- remembering the course will the toughest part!!!

[Snowbird]

Listen up Guys! I'm half way to my 3rd trip to 30. I been there twice already and its fine you won't mind.

[Countryhawk]

See we are lucky to have aged, and ride at this time. Advil!!!! Carry in the van and truck. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif Much better than asprin for what ails us.
When we do hunter paces, I take advil prior to the ride, knowing I'll ache afterwards.

[Countryhawk]

Julie, maybe they will have a mature riders course with directions so we don't have to memorize the course? http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/winkgrin.gif

[Saddlebag]

I have been trying to keep myself from responding to this threat, but finally my resolve is failing. So, here goes. I have neverlet myself even think about slowing down as I age. Not that I am stupid about it. I try not to get on horses that I think will do something dangerous. But (since I am a breeder and trainer), I have a ton of greenies to ride, and they don't really bother me. I do have someone break them for me, and ride them for the first month or two, but after that, I get on. When the three year olds are brought inside after being turned out their two year old winter, she rides them again for the first couple of weeks, so I can be sure that they remember to be "broke" horses.

As for jumping...To my surprise, I have not lost my nerve much. I still much prefer Jumpers to Hunters, and when I have a horse that jumps well and safely, I feel just fine up to around 4'6". I don't see myself doing Grand Prix again, and since my young jumpers are just beginning, I mostly show at Levels 1-4 (up to 3'9"). I also have a really bad back...arthritis from all those years of riding. So I live on a variety of pain pills and every 4-6 months, I get my facet joints "nerved" with Radio Frequency Lesioning. This procedure really helps, and gives me several months of pain relief.

I am often asked why I continue to ride, given my age and back problems. The answer is simple. I still want to and I still enjoy it. True, I have gotten so that I don't want to ride horses that lack the talent or mind to be "a good one" Fortunately, the babies that I have raised have not fallen into that category. I do have one that is a bit complicated mentally, but not in a scary way, and he is getting better slowly.

I suppose that I must "fess up" and reveal my age. I try not to think about it too much because I might scare myself. But anyway, last October, I turned 64. I think that because I have always been so active, I never felt any of the aches and pains of age until I was into my 50s, and did not feel my strength diminishing until last year. I don't have the endurance I used to have, but I can still ride an obstinate colt through an issue about who is going to run the show. I just do it a bit slower now. And I have learned not to get mad at them, but to laugh when one is being a dork and so far, I have managed to stay shiny side up. You know, the horses respond to this. They figure out that I am not going to go away, and since they aren't having any fun either, they give up and become team players in a short time.

Since our property runs along a creek, I can trail ride forever during the summer when the water level is reduced to a trickle and the stream bed offers miles of sand and gravel for riding. In some places, there are lots of smooth rocks and I have to walk, but in many places there are nice sand bars where I can trot and canter. In the winter, it is a raging river, so I can't ride there now, but there is lots of BLM land nearby to trail ride on. I am hoping to get to foxhunt some this winter. We jave had so much rain here that the horses aren't as fit as one should be to hunt, and I am way past thinking that it would be fun to gallop about in the rain!

I don't think that riding seriously at my age is so unusual. Tons of people foxhunt well into their 70s and 80s. Hap Hansen just won a Grand Prix at 54. There are a bunch of us old farts out there enjoying our horses, improving their training and having fun. I am.

[Whoaisme]

Good idea Countryhawk- or maybe for the over 50 crowd they can number the jumps!! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_eek.gif http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

[Whoaisme]

Great idea Countryhawk- or maybe for the 55 and older crowd they'll number the jumps too! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

[Countryhawk]

Briarwood does that now (numbers the jumps). &lt;G&gt; Maybe their riders are older? http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif Guess I'll need my reading glasses on. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif