Sorry about that strange message, apparently I send that when I'm
sending email and I can't figure out how to stop it. ! Sending my
apologies and hoping it doesn't happen again! Here's what I meant to
send:

Hi to the list!!

I am so glad to see that the list is becoming more active, but if you
could, Ginny, could you send out (or have the members do it) a list of
all who participate? I think I've lost track about who reads this
stuff!

I agree that long handles lessen the degree of difficulty for crossing
tricks, but I think that they can be more difficult when doing multiple
unders, throws, and some gymnastics. I guess it is a trade off, but if
we limit handles does that mean we have to make everyone jump with the
same type of rope? (ie: licorice ropes, wire ropes, cloth, etc.)
Because, if you say that the handle is "cheating," are wire ropes
"cheating" because they move faster? I don't think so, I think that the
jumper's ability will shine through no matter what the handle or rope
material. If you can turn fast but legs can't move that quick, what
good will a wire rope do you? By the same token, an individual who is
unable to understand/think about the crossing tricks won't be helped by
long handles too much.

I tend to blabber, but I, too, think it is discouraging that long
handles make the crossing tricks easier. It seems a true jumper should
be able to cross and jump 150 in a minute no matter what the rope or
handle.

Have a great week!
Good luck to all the college students who are taking finals soon!!!

Erica Heinz