Endurance (long distance) riding is a friendly activity and sport which can be enjoyed at any level, from non competitive pleasure rides of 10-20 miles to competitive rides of 100 miles in a day.  Any horse or pony that is fit, healthy and sound can successfully take part in shorter rides without specialist training or equipment. And any rider that enjoys being in the saddle for several hours will be suited to endurance too!

It is a unique challenge and a supreme sport for learning about equine fitness. Veterinary checks before and after competitive rides (and in the middle too for longer distances) ensures the best possible care is taken of your horse. Any problems can be picked up earlier rather than later.

You, the rider, learn more about the way your horse functions, with the importance of regulating your riding to suit conditions. Key factors to think about when competing in endurance rides include:
- Is the terrain hilly or flat, sandy or hard ground?
- Is the weather cold, wet, foggy, or hot and sunny?
- Does the route look to be difficult to follow on the map, or a more simple circular course?
- Where is the best place for my back up crew to meet me (for longer rides)?

At each ride you will be given a map with the route marked on it. This will raise your awareness of sections which will slow you down and where you may be able to make up time on faster going. Yes, you will learn to read a map! It is always best to use your map rather than just follow the rider in front, as they could be lost!

Friendly People to Help
If it is your first ride and you feel a little nervous, the EGB Ride Secretary may be able to arrange for you to ride with someone who is familiar with the sport. People are there to help you and willing to offer advice and experience, so do not be afraid to ask!

When the going gets tough
The toughest challenges are presented by the Endurance Rides, where riders are competing against each other, rather than the clock. The highest level of competition is the 160km (100 mile) endurance ride to be completed in one day.

Something to aim for
Britain's top endurance riders are among the best in the world and you can always learn from them and aspire to follow in their footsteps. Endurance GB is the internationally recognised body for the sport of endurance riding in the UK. Membership of EGB means you and your horse can be considered for British team selection. Each year, EGB puts together young rider, intermediate and senior teams and arranges for them to compete in international endurance riding events.

The Partnership with your Horse
Perhaps the best reason of all for taking up Endurance Riding, is the partnership built up with your horse over these many miles of new riding ground. He has to trust you to lead him back home, and you have to trust him to get you there, and the resulting confidence will stay with both of you in any future sports you may try. That's if you're not hooked on Endurance Riding for life!

Contact us for the latest ride information