`Suicide Race' -- In The Spirit Of The Contest, They Shoot Riders Too, Don't They?

Editor, The Times:

The annual futile outrage over the nefarious Omak "Suicide Race" revives memories from a period in which some standards from a viable relationship between The Horse and Man remained.

In 1931, the Stanford University R.O.T.C. "Military Discipline" was what was then known as "Field Artillery." Because the horses were such an essential element, courses were also required in Equitation, Care of Animals, and, as a highly attractive option, the chance to "make" the polo squad.

I recall with some affection, and enduring awe, the officer in charge of such matters, U.S. Army Capt. Gordon, a West Pointer and a member of the United States Equitation Team for the Olympic Games of 1928. Here are my recollections of some of his opinions that apply to the Omak Brutalities.

. . . "Westerners" and ranch hands (i.e. cowboys) are usually poor handlers of horses - mainly because they don't own (i.e. can't afford) what they ride. It is too easy to lie to the boss to avoid responsibility for an injured horse, then pick up a replacement mount at the remuda . . .

. . . The U.S. Army N.C.O.s have standing orders that yokels, until they accept Army indoctrination, are to be kept away from the remounts. This order was intended to protect both man and beast . . .

. . .Running a horse down a grade of more than 5 percent is forbidden. It is a quick way to inflict permanent injuries to the animal, severely limiting its capabilities for taxing or strenuous use. Under combat conditions, such an action can result in a court-martial, even in an ordered retreat, except when taking fire . . .

Sadly, I must admit that even Capt. Gordon and the U.S. Army might be at a loss to regulate the spectacle of attempting to prove one's manhood (and, for money!) by animal abuse.

How many riders have been killed during the many Omak "Suicide" Obscenities? If injured, do riders qualify for full medical and hospital treatment or, in the spirit of the contest, are they shot? - Jack B. Keerl, Seattle