It was March 29, 2003, my first endurance ride as a senior. The ride was the Home on the Range 50 miler in Washington. My horse was in great shape, and I was really looking forward to riding alone.

Once the ride started, I couldn't believe how hard it was to rate myself. I had to keep reminding myself that it was only the first loop. Rides are never won in the first loop, but they can easily be lost there.

Somewhere out in the sagebrush, Isaac did end up unloading me after spooking at a dead car. (I'm pretty sure I fell off more in my first season as a senior than I ever did as a junior!)

I came into the first vet check somewhere in the top 10, and realized I had forgotten my vet card at my camper that morning. Luckily this was an in-camp check, so I was okay (minus the fact that I lost about 10 minutes getting it).

Isaac did really well all day, and as we were lazily loping into the finish, he suddenly realized that those ribbons marking the finish line could be flying snakes, and gracefully threw me from the saddle, atop the finish line. All I can say is that my horse is known for his sense of humor. We ended up in third place, and I had a blast.

-- -- --

After three seasons of long distance as a junior, I decided I was ready to become a senior. I thought riding as a senior would be a piece of cake. And it was . . . kind of. One thing is that you have to watch the trail way more since there wonÕt be any sponsors to keep you on track (or lead you astray).

Also, you have to figure out how to rate yourself and your horse. I never really understood the concept of rating until I rode alone. Its more than just not going too fast. It's getting your horse to perform to the best of his abilities, recognizing his strong points as well as his weaknesses.

I tend to start with the pack, but I take it pretty easy, and I never let my horse out in the first loop. If it takes my horse more than a couple minutes to pulse down at the first vet check, I'm going too fast. My goal is usually to save my horse until the last leg, and as long as he feels loose and strong, I let him go a little faster. It works really well for him, but each endurance horse is different.

Another thing is acting mature and sensible. You're a senior now, and you alone are responsible for the well-being of your horse. Remembering all of your essentials (electrolytes, water, food, etc.) is crucial, as you don't want to be stuck begging off of someone else. YouÕre riding with the big kids now; you have to act like it.

There were the skeptical people. You know what I'm talking about, the people who say that it's what juniors always do when they graduate--prove themselves by racing. And I did. To an extent.

After 1300 miles, I felt like I knew my horse well enough to let him fulfill his potential. We've been doing pretty good so far, and after almost two years as a senior, I love endurance more than ever. Isaac just passed 2,000 miles, and I am so proud. I'm really hoping for 3,000 eventually. Each horse and rider are unique, and they all have their preferences. Me? All I need is my horse and a long trail ahead of me.