The horses that qualify those kids DO work very hard, and finals season is no joke for the horses that go. How many discussions have we seen about the horses looking thinner or even sore the season goes on? If we can keep from encouraging people to pound their legs off chasing points to qualify (and then pound their legs off again once they’re there), that’s in the best interest of the horses.
More than that though, you’re saying that just because a kid can’t afford to lease The Top equitation horse, or have multiple horses, they don’t deserve a shot at attending finals? Even if they ride just as well and acquired/produced a capable horse, but have to be smart about how much they show - they should just give up the equitation, no way they can play the game, that’s just how it is . They can’t afford to be there and have their name “known” so who cares, right? Cause that’s the underlying tone I’m getting from your post.
I realize the irony about arguing for equitable access in H/J of all places. I’d just hate for the Big Eq to spiral further down the path to becoming a popularity and money contest, when it’s supposed to be a place judged on the rider’s skills rather than their pocketbook.