|
NASMA President’s Pen
March 2011
After years of resistance and indifference, I find myself in the
21st Century and a part of the “Social Network.” For someone who
only recently gave in and started using e-mail on a regular basis,
this was a big jump.
I bring this up because after opening my facebook®
account, I became very discouraged at what was being sent out by
some of our membership regarding NASMA sanctioned shows and
sportsmanship. I'm very disappointed to see so much acrimony on the
various social pages of the Internet about members who may or may
not be in violation of our rules. I realize and feel strongly that
each of us has the right to voice our opinions and concerns. I just
think that we should stop and consider the consequences of our
actions as to whether we are doing more harm than good.
I think the Internet is a priceless tool but not the venue to work
through such issues. We have a process in place to address rules
violations. If you truly believe one of our members is intentionally
violating our rules, you have the option of filing a protest and
$100 fee to show management or to submit a complaint to our
grievance committee. Nothing is accomplished by waiting until after
the show and then complaining to a vast public audience who only
hears one side.
Now that our spring show season is upon us I urge you, not just for
NASMA’s benefit but for the benefit of our youth that look to us for
guidance in displaying good sportsmanship, to keep a positive
attitude, put your best hoof forward, and look forward to helping a
new competitor find the way.
It is my opinion that NASMA is by far the best equine related
association out there filled with the most passionate competitors in
the country. Most put in the time and effort on their mules and
donkeys to make them winners either personally or with the
assistance of a trainer. We all strive for the same goal, to be the
best we can be and have fun competing.
As a competitor in the show pen, we cannot be angry with anyone but
ourselves if we don't come out of the arena a winner. We have no one
to hold animosity towards except ourselves for not being prepared or
if our mule or donkey is not riding as well as another on that
particular day at that show. If you show long enough, you will win
classes that you shouldn't have and you will lose classes that you
shouldn't have. Take it in stride and just enjoy the camaraderie
that comes from being around people that share the same love of long
ears that you do.
As we move forward in 2011 let us make every effort to make this the
best year NASMA has ever had. Always remember, if you're not moving
forward, then you're going backward.
Tom Cochran, President
North American Saddle Mule Association
Tom Cochran
NASMA President
Trcdbc@aol.com
|
