Today I sat down and read Kevin Baumgardner's last letter as sitting president of USEA. His term ends on December 11th and Brian Sabo will take his place. Normally, I don't spend too much time worrying about what the heads of our sport ramble about, but I was curious, as I have previously been impressed with Baumgardner's eloquence and thoughtfulness (and I give him kudos for his strong support of the long format events). He wanted to share his thoughts on what he'd seen and where he felt the sport of eventing stood today. And did he ever.
I wasn't sure whether to nod my head in agreement or cry at the passion bubbling out of it. So I did both. Then, I copied the link so I could share it with you, those of you who haven't already seen my link on Facebook. Go. Read. Absorb.
It is not enough to turn in a technically flawless performance. Our sport is about joy. Joy in the partnership between horse and rider. Joy in the freedom of riding across country. Joy in the simplest sense of celebrating each day.
THAT is why I get on my horse and THAT is why I love this sport so deeply. Thank you, Kevin, for putting it into words so well.
3 days ago
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