ENDURANCE riding first developed in the 1900s as a military test for cavalry mounts. Horses were required to go on a five-day 483km ride carrying at least 200lbs. This test of endurance then became a sport in the early 1950s.

The sport of endurance riding is a timed test against the clock of a horse and rider team, who follow and complete a marked course over natural terrain of distances varying from 32km to 80km in qualifying rides and from 80km to 160km in endurance races at FEI or championship level.

The reduction of time and distance over the years has increased the number of riders and horses participating, and in 1978 the Federation Equestrian Internationale (FEI) recognised endurance riding as an international sport.

IRISH ASSOCIATION

The Irish Long Distance riding association (ILDRA), national governing body for endurance in Ireland, was formed by a small group of individuals in 1990 and has grown and promoted the sport ever since.

ILDRA run events almost every weekend of the season, these rides take place mostly in ulster and Leinster, but the ILDRA are always looking to open new venues in other provinces.

These events include distances and courses for equestrians of all levels including children on lead-rein ponies, adults who want to spend a day at their leisure following a marked, safe course in the company of their equine companion and those who want their sights set on competing at the largest equestrian events, racing over 160km.

Age is not a factor, the ILDRA have members ranging in age from eight to 80, and it is not all about competing, for some that may come in time, perhaps jumping just doesn’t interest you any more but you still want to spend time on horseback – what could be better than you, your horse and miles and miles of tracks in some of the most beautiful places in Ireland.

GETTING INVOLVED

‘Give it a go’ days are held regularly by the ILDRA, there are normally two days held per month in Leinster and two per month in Ulster – you don’t have to be a member to give endurance riding a try. You can do up to 32km, but to do higher distances you would need to become a member and progress through the grading system.

Standard equipment is all that is needed. A riding hat, comfortable saddle and, depending on the time spent riding, it is a good idea to bring food and water for you and your horse – these are the essentials. Other than that, time is all you need. Time to spend doing what you love most.

If you decide that you want to be competitive or try out longer distances event organisers and more experienced endurance riders are always happy to help and offer advice.

COMPETITION GRADING

The endurance athletes motto is: “To finish is to win” and that is the main aim at all levels.

Many people start with the aim to go out and enjoy the day and do just that, however pleasure riders (combinations who are not against the clock) soon try their hand at the lower level CTRs (completive trail rides) especially when they see the knowledge and technical ability displayed by the completive riders.

To be eligible for competitions you must be a member. Note that you can ride as a non-member over shorter distances or take part in pleasure rides.

ILDRA use a shamrock system to grade their riders, the shamrocks consist of Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum and Diamond. To achieve bronze the combination of horse and rider must complete a 32km ride within a set time and a 40km ride over a set time. The horse must also pass a veterinary examination before and after which checks for soundness, hydration, gut sounds and heart rate which has to be below set parameters.

In order to progress up through the grades distances get longer while other parameters remain the same heart rate, hydration etc.

THE HORSES

Many people wonder whether their horse is suitable for long distance/endurance riding. In short, any horse can partake in endurance riding. Irish Draughts have completed 160km races, Connemara ponies and Connemara crosses also excel, and as we know normally have fantastic temperaments. Retired Trotters, pacers and traditional Irish cobs have represented Ireland internationally.

Of course, some horses are better suited with Arabians and Anglo Arabs at the top of the list however almost all other breeds are suitable for endurance.

Who do I contact?

 Check out the Endurance Ireland website www.enduranceridingireland.com



You can also follow the ILDRA on Facebook by searching Endurance Riding Ireland - ILDRA

For further information contact Peter O’Carroll on 085 2107312