INTRODUCTORY DISTANCE RIDES and DRIVES

While researching ways to attract new members and serve the current membership better, SEDRA received a proposal from members that we consider adding a “mini-miler” division.  We implemented SEDRA’s Introductory Distance Rides (IDR) and Drives (IDD). ECTRA and AERC has a similar program in place that has been very successful.  The increase in participants is helping support the longer distances, and has brought in some new members.  They’ve been very pleased with the program, and after a couple of years it seems to be helping their organization grow.

We’ve chosen to call our program Introductory Distance Rides/Drives, and adapted our proposal to suit our environment.

The purpose of the IDR/D division within SEDRA’s awards program is to introduce distance riding/driving to those who would like to sample the sport and for those experienced riders and /or horses no longer able to complete a longer course.  IDR/D events will count ONLY towards Lifetime mileage for horse and riders and no other SEDRA awards. 

The general idea of IDDs and IDRs is that they are a shorter version of the MO (Mileage Only) program that is already in place. 

RULES FOR INTRODUCTORY DISTANCE RIDES (IDR) AND DRIVES (IDD)

1. The purpose of the IDR/D division within SEDRA’s awards program is to introduce distance riding/driving to those who would like to sample the sport and for those experienced riders and /or horses no longer able to complete a longer course. IDR/D events will count ONLY towards Lifetime mileage for horse and riders and no other SEDRA awards, to include the Longevity Award. 
2. IDRs and IDDs can be offered only in conjunction with a SEDRA sanctioned event.  IDD/Rs will be conducted along the same guidelines as a Mileage Only division.  Ride Management may also offer a fun ride division which would receive no mileage, but keep safety in mind.
3. Mileage for IDRs and IDDs will be between 10-20 miles. 
4. All SEDRA safety, procedural, and completion requirements are to be enforced for the miles to count.
   • If held in conjunction with a CTR/D, the IDR/D
     • Must follow those procedures and completion criteria already set up for the Mileage Only Division.
     • A separate Trail Judge can be used for the IDR/D, if Ride Management feels that it is warranted.
   • If held in conjunction with an Endurance ride, the IDR
     • Must follow those procedures and completion criteria already set up for Limited Distance.
5. Hoof and leg protection devices are acceptable, as stated in the Mileage Only Division.
6. Event Distances and Times (In conjunction with a CTR/D:  times indicated are elapsed time, including one 20-minute hold.  Hold is optional, but if no hold is scheduled, no adjustment on time is permitted.  Standard 45 minute window applies with no assessed penalties.  DQ if come in 30 minutes early or 30 minutes over time, again follow Mileage Only Division rules). (Pace set at 6mph average.)
   • 10 miles = 1:25-2:10
   • 12.5 miles = 1:50-2:35
   • 15 miles = 2:15-3:00
   • 18 miles = 2:45 – 3:30
   • 20 miles = 3:05 – 3:50
7. Event Distances and Times (In conjunction with an Endurance ride:  one hold may be scheduled, but is not required.  If no hold is scheduled, no adjustment on time is permitted.)
   • 10 miles =  2:30 hours maximum
   • 12.5 miles = 3 hours maximum
   • 15 miles = 4 hours maximum
   • 18 miles = 5 hours maximum
   • 20 miles = 5:15 hours maximum
8. Participation in an IDR/D does NOT constitute the official beginning of a rider’s or horse’s Rookie Season.  The Rookie Season will officially begin with their first 25 mile minimum CTR/D or Limited Distance/ Endurance ride.
9. IDR/D is not eligible for elevating.
10. Any mileage before the beginning date of this test period cannot be purchased and will not count.
11. All other SEDRA rules apply (i.e., Rider/driver must be a member, horse must be nominated prior to the ride, etc. for miles to count.)
12. Either the ride manager will provide a list of IDR/D completions, or the rider will provide a copy of the rider card or scoresheet to the awards secretary as proof of completion.  The card must be signed by a judge as complete, and show the ride time to verify that criteria were met.