I’m in Prince Edwards Island, Canada hovering over a tall mug of steaming mocha with whipped cream. I’m drenched to the bone with rain while watching the renowned Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) “Musical Ride” at the Crapaud Equestrian Centre. Everybody on the island declares the Musical Ride is is quite the spectacle. And well, there really isn’t that much else to do on the island, so we go see thirty-two boot-black Hanoverian broodmares and stallions prance in formation. The show’s finale culminates in a colossal stampede that comes to an abrupt halt at the end of the arena. I had been hearing about this amazing feat for the entire week!
Unfortunately, it started raining a few hours before showtime, and really started pissing down rain just a few minutes before the Commander, John Gaudet, led the troops into the outdoor arena. It was a nice show, but didn’t quite live up to the Islanders’ hype.
Afterwards, Joseph (my partner) insisted we stick around to say hello to his childhood friend who is none other than the Musical Ride Commander John Gaudet! A gracious Mountie with a warm smile, John explained to us that they needed to slow the pace of the Musical Ride to ensure the safety of the riders as well as the horses. They only cancel a show when there is lightening or other danger. Guess rain doesn’t count.
When weather and/or other conditions sour on your team, do you adjust the pace and tempo to meet the conditions so that everyone can still participate safely and surefooted? Or, do you go full speed ahead like nothing is happening?
