Endurance
Riding – the Ultimate Partnership between
horse and rider
What is Endurance riding?
Endurance riding is a unique competitive challenge
for horse and rider and a supreme sport for learning
about equine fitness, and is one of the most exciting,
up and coming equine sports today. Endurance requires
dedication, good horsemanship and involves long
hours in the saddle, but can be enjoyed by riders
and horses of all types and abilities. Horses with
a high proportion of Arab blood are generally more
suitable for longer distances.
In England and Wales the sport is governed by
Endurance GB which is affiliated to the FEI for
international competitions. Rides of varying distances
are held over all kinds of terrain and in all weathers
between February and October. International competitions
take part in many countries, and European and World
Championships are held biennially.
Rides run under Endurance GB are of three types:
Non Competitive Rides (NCR, including Social, Training
and Pleasure Rides), Competitive Rides (CR) and
Endurance Rides (ER). NCRs are normally up to 40km
(25 miles) and generally do not have veterinary
inspections, except when run in conjunction with
competitive rides horses must be trotted up for
the vet before and after the ride. CRs can extend
to 80km (50 miles) whilst ERs run between 80 and
160km (50-100 miles) normally in one day, but some
rides will extend over more than one day. In CR
and ER classes horses must comply with set veterinary
parameters to successfully complete the ride.
Horses can participate in NCRs at the age of 4
but may not compete in CRs until 5 years of age
and ERs until 7 years old. Horses and riders compete
at Novice, Open or Advanced level depending on
qualification, and non members can take part in
shorter rides as Temporary Day Members. Riders
should have one or more helpers (crew) particularly
at longer rides to assist with the care of the
horse and its presentation to the vet, as well
as recovering it from the course if needed. In
CR and ER classes horses must comply with set veterinary
parameters to successfully complete the ride.
Endurance
is a sport for all ages (over 8 years) and all
types of horse and a great way to get out
and see the countryside. Even non-riding members
of the family can join in at events by helping
out with the organisation, vet-writing, marking
the route, manning a checkpoint or crewing the
riding members of the family. Regional groups of
Endurance GB also hold training days, demonstrations,
fun rides and social events throughout the year.
Find
out more about joining Endurance GB on our website
www.endurancegb.co.uk or contact us at
National Agricultural Centre, Stoneleigh Park,
Kenilworth, Warwickshire, CV8 2RP, tel: 02476
698863 fax: 02476 418429 or Email enquiries@endurancegb.co.uk
