Three riders from Kenlyn arrived at Auburn, plus a spare horse for my pit crew to ride the week before. Immediately, Roger Blalock (a riding companion at the Rocky Mountain Ride in Colorado in 97) came over and said he'd come from Alabama and now his horse was off. I told him he could ride my extra gelding, but that the horse was inexperienced, with only 200 miles of competition in endurance and competitive trail. As an experience 100 miler, and fit runner, Roger felt he could get him through it, plus help me complete my FIRST 100.
We set a slow, steady pace and DID IT! The support volunteers at all the vet checks were extremely instrumental in helping us accomplish this ride. They were so polite, cheerful and very helpful. "Do you want help sponging, holding horses while you use the restroom, something to eat, water bottles filled, etc." The clapping and cheering crowds along the streets at Robinson Flat and Michigan Bluff and the FINISH LINE were so uplifting and emotional, I cried and felt revived. My own pit crew (Thanks, Diane, Mike, Lisa and Carol) were the most important in both mental and physical support. The night riding was a new experience for me. We rode with no lights and after awhile, I got use to trusting my horse and really enjoyed the experience. This was the hardest ride I've ever done and by the end, I had used up all of my physical abilities, but I was so proud of my horse--he was still rearing to go!
I am so very grateful for the privilege of riding the TEVIS and COMPLETING. I plan on returning to the 50 milers, but when I do another 100, it will be either the TEVIS or IAHA rides. The celebration was unbelievable. Thanks again to everyone who encouraged and supported me in my effort.
LINDA FISHERKENLYN ARABIANS
Linda & FC Extreme
at the Tevis