What is Endurance?
The Sport of Endurance Riding requires a horse and rider combination to successfully complete a marked course within a specified time. This challenges the rider over their effective use of pace and thorough knowledge of their horse’s capabilities over varying terrain. At all times, the welfare of the horse and the skills of horse management are paramount.
Endurance distances within Australia vary, offering a level to suit most riders, for example, from 5km rides allowing families to escort their children, to social rides of 20km progressing to Intermediate rides of 40km. An Endurance ride is a minimum distance of 80km (the most common distance) and extends to marathon rides of 400km over 5 days. The penultimate Championship distance is the one day 160km event. Riders and horses must progress through Novice levels to achieve Qualified Endurance status. Endurance rides are split into 2 or 3 legs (also referred to as loops or phases). At the end of each leg there are compulsory Veterinary checks where the horse is assessed for his recovery and fitness to continue. The vet checks are followed by a ‘hold’ time in which horses and riders may rest and recover.
Endurance is a unique sport as families can compete side by side and inclusivity is inherent. Riding over varying terrain in different rural settings afford many opportunities for spectacular scenery whilst creating a strong bond between rider and horse.
Endurance has won Australia more medals at the World Equestrian Games than any other discipline. Australian bred Endurance horses consistently perform amongst the best in the world.
For more information on Endurance please visit: www.aera.asn.au
