WHAT IS RAC?
As a way to encourage Curly Owners to get out and promote the breed, build a consistent 'riding ethic' and also inspire others, I decided to start a contest via Curly Horse Country, called RIDE-A-CURLY. I had no idea how it would be received, so I started by running just a 6 month contest to start. May 1- October 31, 2007.
It was the first of it's kind in that the focus was on working as a "TEAM" of promoters, inspiring each other and just having fun, rather than the "win." --- But like any contest, it is always fun to set some goals and have that ultimate prize as the driving force. ;-)
The RAC riders log daily and get points for time spent IN the saddle riding and also points for doing events as well. More details here.
Another really neat thing is, they were encouraged to share stories online via a page like this.
This year, I have expanded the contest to 1 full year. Each participant was given a FREE Curly Tshirt with their entry fee of $30.00. They could pick any color they wanted and they had 2 design choices to choose from. They are encouraged to wear their Tshirts out in public as much as possible, to encourage conversation, promotion and also to give that "Team Spirit" feeling by pulling all the RAC riders together, no matter what Country, State, Providence or Town.
At the end of the year, riders turn in all the logs & points - these must be detailed and accurate. Prizes are awarded to 2 divisions: YOUTH & ADULT and to our RAC Grand Champion & Reserve Champion. (Prizes here)
BUT THAT'S NOT ALL! Throughout the year, I will be holding 3 separate MINI contests to keep our RAC riders motivated! Those contests will be announced a bit later. Our first one will be in April.
In the meantime, encourage our riders by leaving a comment below. We hope their stories will inspire you to jump on the back of your horse and start promoting your curly as well!
January 16th, 2008! 