In a message dated 8/4/04 9:40:24 AM, renegade12@... writes:
> So, "Do you think the AERC should explore the possibility of this or a
> similar Sponsorship?  If so, what guidelines would you like to see
> followed?
>
Hi Randy,

My concern is that the AERC should never "sell out". Money isn't
everything (as those of us who live here in NM know all too well :)

When the AERC was formed, the WSTF was highly concerned that
the AERC not take over their ride / rules and the way things were
done. I am appalled that they sold out any ride, let alone the 50th.
Used to be the only way to get a buckle was to actually complete
the ride (and put your hard earned dollars up before starting with
no guarantee).

The idea behind sponsorship is to reap in more money... for the
sponsor and the sponsored organization. I do not see this as a
good thing for endurance riding at all. Money and speed put horses
at risk.

I see a huge difference between Sundowner / Sandia Trailer Sales
putting up money to "get the word out" about endurance riding by
sponsoring the back page of EN... and "buying the organization".
What would be the point behind selling our NC rides? I do not see
this as an issue to WHO the sponsor is, but WHAT the point is. The
AERC is flush. We need to grow the organization in areas we are
supposed to be supporting under our 501.c. We need to be looking
at the issues here at home... education, trails, horse welfare. I see
big money sponsorship and speed as against ALL of these things...
after all if you are looking for speed, you certainly don't need a
trail like Tevis, Big Horn, Old Dominion, Big Creek, or any of the
multidays.

That said, I also do not think the AERC should sell out to foreign
interests. If there are those in the organization who want to see
more involvement in international rides, there is an international
organization for them... it's called the FEI.

All of the endurance organizations can work together synergistically,
but I think the AERC is doing fine and does not need to sell out to any
commercial interest... domestic or not.

Kathy Myers
AERC# 14992
in Santa Fe, NM



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