MDDA President’s Message – May 2004

This year Midwest Distance Driving Association is off to a great start.  With the completion of our MDDA Classroom clinic in February and our Iron Oak Competitive Novice Ride/Drive just behind us, it’s time for me to say “Thank you.” 

 I believe both events were highly successful in terms of quality and quantity.  We had good numbers of participants at both days (the good weather god obviously helped us) and we had fantastic contributions from our member volunteers.  Thanks to all of you for coming, participating and making things happen. 

I give special thanks to “old” board members who have been so supportive in so many ways, each of you doing something that you are very good at doing, often without me even asking.  The many tasks seem overwhelming at first but with so many hands helping out, the jobs before, during and after each event have seemed much more fun from my perspective. This camaraderie is great.  I also know that there have been some bumps along the road, but again your rallying support and efforts for the group have minimized their impact. I’ve appreciated all the suggestions as well as the kind words that have come my way and I am so grateful for all the initiative that you have demonstrated.  Our veteran advisors Romona Radtke and Elinore Tonsor continue to amaze me as well with their efforts and experience. While it is still very early in the year, let us celebrate our realization of goals for our first two completed events and move forward with renewed vigor.

Our next MDDA sponsored driving event is Glacier Trails at Horsemen’s Park on May 15 and 16. See details elsewhere in this newsletter.  Once again I’m calling for your support and participation.  I encourage you to drive on Sunday if possible, and if not, come and volunteer either day (advanced warning is helpful) and if you can do both volunteer and drive, that’s fantastic.

I know the unpredictable ups and downs of spring weather has made it challenging to condition our horses these past two months besides doing all the work and chores that need doing.  But I hope to drive anyway.  It is so beautiful out on the trails this time of year and the scenery at Horsemen’s Park is exceptional.  Make plans now.  Let’s continue our commitment to MDDA and enjoy each other in actively participating in the fun of distance driving 

Safe driving and happy trails,

Wes