As a cutter, I am really not in a good position to judge the validity of the questions you are posing but for just that reason, I am on the outside looking in and can answer a little more objectively. First, as to whether or not the process is fair, my question is: Is the process for qualifying USET reiners the same as for qualifying other disciplines? If it is, then our selection process, albeit long and tiring, is fair. If not, then someone should look into it and develop a schedule that parallels all of the disciplines sanctioned by USET. The question of too many or not enough entries is very subjective but since FEI has approved reining (and a not too distant opportunity to go to the Olympics) then everyone should have a shot with the best team winning. As long as everyone has an equal shot, then all is fair. If points or selections start going to 'favorites' then we (the sport and discipline of reining) lose. Also, attrition will eliminate a lot of entries just because of the high demand being made on horse and rider. The process should highlight the most durable, as well as talented, of our horse/rider teams.

Sincerely,
Ron Woods
Gateways Ranch

The selection system is the one used by the USET for many years and it's worked well for them in other disciplines. If we are going to play at this level, we should abide by their rules. We've got a LONG way to go before the Olympics. Why rock the boat, saying we don't want to play unless by our rules. It's true that some talented people will probably be left out from time to time, but that's "horse show." The best don't always win. The best might not have had a good day on the day it counts. It happens at the NRHA Futurity and Derby, too. It's called "Manure Occurs."

KSwan317

I tend to agree that the long list concept may not be useful at this point. Why not open up the Qualifying events to everyone who is interested in participating? It would certainly make the qualifying events larger and more interesting. Otherwise, I think the program is excellent. I am really excited about seeing the USET finals this weekend -- finally, there is a major reining in my backyard!!

Craig Sutter

With regard to the USET, it occurs to me that creating the "long list" is where good people can be inappropriately eliminated without giving them a chance. Perhaps there could be a qualifying show for those who aren't on the long list, but who would like to be able to compete.

Gail Klapper

The long list is the problem. It leaves out a tremendous amount of good solid riders that have good horses. Some people don't show enough to earn enough to make the list. I for one will probably never make the list.

SunSwept

It's a little to early to tell since we are only the second year of the program. Clearly the horses and riders competing in Gladstone are not of a uniform standard of highest excellence, due largely, in my opinion and that of several professional trainers, to the lack of "fresh" horses six years old and older. It remains to be seen whether the horse owning public is willing to invest the additional training time and expense and "hold back" some top notch performers from the 3-5 year old competitions. Only by developing horses specifically for the Olympic competition will we create a bumper crop of truly world class open horses. Only after that occurs can we evaluate the selection system.

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