About endurance riding
Endurance riding is about riding horses competitively over long distances and is one of the fastest growing equestrian sports in the UK. Many riders start with pleasure rides, where the emphasis is on enjoying riding in the countryside in a friendly, non-competitive atmosphere. All SERC Tayside rides include a pleasure ride of between 16 to 30 kilometres, which must be completed at a speed of between 8 and 10.99 kph.
Those who wish to ride competitively can move on to set-speed rides, which begin at around 30 kilometres or a series of graded rides.
At the highest level, horses and riders compete in race rides, which sometimes have mass starts and can cover up to 160 kilometres on one day or even further over more days.
At every level of the sport, the welfare of the horse is paramount and the challenge for the rider is to prepare and manage the horse so that he finishes an event in the best possible condition.
While many of the horses competing at a high level are Arabian or Arabian crosses, any horse that is sound, properly prepared and reasonably fit can successfully take part in endurance riding.
SERC Tayside has many members with a wealth of experience, who are always happy to help newcomers to the sport. The branch Committee is developing a series of training events to help both new and existing riders get the most out of their chosen level, be it in competition or simply for pleasure.