We Love Arabian Horses Global Podcast: Heather and Jeremy Reynolds Tevis 2025

We LOVE Arabian Horses Global Podcast - Listen

Heather & Jeremy Reynolds - Tevis 25 Together: Reynolds' Ride Into History

Join us for a heartfelt and inspiring episode of the Arabian Horse Lover’s Podcast as we sit down with Heather and Jeremy Reynolds—endurance riding’s power couple—fresh off their breathtaking finish at the 2025 Tevis Cup.

Listen:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/4wOdhLTXRXQkhv9snAPSMq

William “Bill” Stevens 1960-2025

StevensonFunerHomes.com

In Memory Of William “Bill” Stevens, age 65 of Ashland
June 12, 1960 – July 13, 2025

William “Bill” Craig Stevens, age 65, passed away on the morning of July 13, 2025, while out tending to his cattle on the forest. Bill was born in Sheridan, Wyoming on June 12, 1960, to Marcus and Nancy Stevens. He was their first born and the start of the fifth generation on the Circle Bar Ranch.

Bill’s childhood included many adventures as one would expect living on a ranch. From swimming in Otter Creek to climbing the surrounding hills, Bill was always up to something. Collecting various wild animals as pets, going camping, riding his bicycle to town (Sheridan – 67 miles away), and playing in The Fort.

His education started at the one room schoolhouse on Otter Creek for the first couple of years and finishing up with 8th grade at Ashland Public School. Bill then attended and graduated from Tongue River High School in 1979. After High School, Bill traveled to Laramie, Wyoming to attend WyoTech, graduating with certificates in automotive and diesel technologies.

In the summer of 1981, Bill first met Janice (Jan) Lori Kyllo as she worked at the OW Ranch outside of Sheridan, WY. As fate would have it, Bill had accepted a flying job in Laramie as Jan was starting her freshman year at the University of Wyoming in Laramie that fall. Bill and Jan dated until she graduated in the spring of 1985. They married June 1, 1985, and celebrated their 40th Anniversary in 2025.

Bill and Jan welcomed Heather Anne on July 12, 1988, during the week of the Sheridan WYO Rodeo, amidst a summer of numerous fires. Jennifer Ellen came two years later on October 9, 1990 while Bill was working on a water pipeline. Finally, Megan Kay arrived on August 27, 1994. Bill loved his girls and never felt outnumbered by the female presence in the house. He instilled in them the love for the ranch, family history, hunting, cooking, and being adventurous.

Bill’s love for flying started at an early age flying with his dad, Marc. Soloing at 15 and receiving his pilot’s license at age 16. While attending WyoTech he continued his piloting education as well, gathering various certifications from Commercial to Instructor. Bill finished out his certificates as a Multi-Engine Instrument Flight Instructor. In 1981, Bill took a job with Laramie Aviation as a flight instructor and charter pilot. He worked there until he moved back to the ranch in 1983. Bill continued to fly at the ranch, from looking for cattle on the forest and hunting coyotes in the winter, to taking friends and family up for a joy ride and flying to town for parts, Bill was always at home in the air. Bill’s pride and joy was the yellow and black NorthStar plane, in which he logged many hours building and even more flying.

Hunting was always a big part of Bill’s life. From the local game of mule and whitetail deer, antelope, and elk, Bill usually drew a tag. While Bill enjoyed hunting himself, he really loved taking new hunters out to show them the ropes. Later in life, Bill found a love for Africa and hunting there. In the spring of 2025, he convinced Jan to travel with him to Africa, hoping that she would share the love for it that he had. It didn’t take much convincing after Jan shot three for three.

Bill’s love for competition was evident in the many sports that he participated in. He participated in wrestling and football while attending High School. He especially enjoyed coaching little kids in wrestling, teaching them their first move; to throw their hands up in the air, yell, and run onto the mat at the other competitor, thereby forcing them off the mat. He was always studying the local Broadus High School calendar to see when the next football, basketball, or wrestling meet was going to be held so that he could attend. In the mid 1990’s, Bill found the sport of Endurance Riding with his wife. He participated in many one-day rides from ranging from 50 to 100 miles. He furthered his endurance experience by offering to help the US Endurance Team when they traveled overseas for various World Championships. His travels included Canada, the United Arab Emirates, France, Italy, Spain, Costa Rica, and New Zealand. In these travels he made countless friends, with many of them traveling to the ranch to visit.

The ranch was always in the forefront of Bill’s mind. He was so proud to share his love of this way of life with his family and friends. He impressed upon the girls the importance of loving the land; treating it with care so that it can provide for the coming generations. He loved the history of his family in ranching and being the Papa of the 7th generation here on Otter Creek. Bill served on several local boards including the Powder River Conservation District and the Airport Board in Broadus. He enjoyed being involved in the decision making for the betterment of the natural resources and the longevity of ranching in Southeastern Montana. He was also a very strong fundraising advocate for the Broadus Volunteer Fire Department.

Bill’s family would like to thank our family and friends for their outpouring of support through this difficult time. Bill always felt that there were never any strangers in the world, only people he hadn’t befriended yet.

Bill is survived by his wife of 40 years, Jan; Daughter Heather Herman (John) of Sonnette, Montana; Daughter Jennifer Clairmont (Chet) of New Bern, North Carolina; Daughter Megan Stevens of Sheridan, Wyoming; Grandchildren Tyler, Cody, and Kaylee Herman and Milo Clairmont. Parents Marcus and Nancy Stevens; Sisters Suzanne Notti (Jae) and Cynthia Gratwohl (Hal); and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his grandparents John and Dorothy Stevens, grandparents Russell and Mary Price, and his niece Rebecca Notti.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to be made to the Bill Stevens Memorial Scholarship Fund, which will be dedicated to furthering the education of students wishing to go to trade schools.

Survivor in the saddle: Lincoln man's perseverance leads him to Tevis Cup endurance ride

GoldCountryMedia.com - Full Article

Lincoln man's perseverance leads him to 100-mile Tevis Cup endurance ride

Jordan Georgeson
Jul 10, 2025 5:00 PM

Ken Campbell has overcome adversity for most of his life. Just three months before receiving his doctorate degree in 1983, Campbell was involved in a tragic accident when a tanker truck carrying 8,000 gallons of gasoline erupted into flames after being rear-ended by a flatbed truck hauling steel.

The impact triggered an explosion, sending flames 200 feet into the air and engulfing a nearby car, occupied by Campbell and two others. One occupant succumbed to her injuries weeks later, and her brother committed suicide months later due to the pain and suffering from the injuries.

Campbell had burns on 70 percent of his body and was not expected to survive. Miraculously, he found a way and has made the most of his second chance at life. He was a marathon runner before the accident, and he used the sport to help him return to his former self.

Campbell first ran the prestigious Western States Endurance Run in 1989, but as he grew older and started a family, he wasn’t able to run the race again. Instead, he resorted to running marathons again but he always longed to return to the iconic trail in the Sierra...

Read more here:
https://goldcountrymedia.com/news/326222/survivor-in-the-saddle-lincoln-mans-perseverance-leads-him-to-tevis-cup-endurance-ride/

John Perry’s A Real Diva takes the 2025 Haggin Cup

http://endurance.net/international/USA/2025TevisCup/

Monday July 14 2025

A Real Diva, a 10-year-old Arabian mare ridden by John Perry, was awarded the 2025 Haggin Cup at the Tevis Cup ceremony on Sunday.

It was the mare’s first Tevis Cup completion and the seventh for Perry, from Tracy, California. A Real Diva (Dahess x Dreamm Diva) was bred by Cre Run farm and previously raced on the track, with 1 win in 9 starts in Delaware.

The pair came in 9th place at 1:09 AM.

Together at last: Heather and Jeremy Reynolds finish 1st and 2nd at Tevis Cup

GoldCountryMedia.com - Full Article

Jordan Georgeson

Jul 13, 2025 9:44 AM

The strenuous 100-mile journey from Robie Park to Auburn for the 69th Tevis Cup was not enough to separate husband and wife Jeremy and Heather Reynolds. The two have accomplished just about everything in the sport of endurance riding, entering this year's ride on Saturday with eight Tevis Cups and five Haggin Cups between them in two decades of riding.

Throughout all of their accomplishments, the only thing that the Greenwood couple hadn’t accomplished was finishing the race together. They did so Saturday night, crossing the finish line at McCann Stadium at 11 p.m. hand in hand as the top two finishers of the ride.

“We’ve never managed to finish together at the end of this, like in any position. So to finish together in first place was just mind blowing,” said Heather after the race. “Especially this year with the non-completion rate. To have the two horses pair up and be able to do what they did today was just epic.”

“That was so special,” said Jeremy. “We've been trying to finish together for over 20 years. So it’s just surreal that we finally got to do it together and hold hands across the finish line...”

Read more here:
https://goldcountrymedia.com/news/326277/together-at-last-heather-and-jeremy-reynolds-finish-1st-and-2nd-at-tevis-cup/

Champion mother, daughter Haggin Cup winner, set to defend titles in deep Tevis field

GoldCountryMedia.com - Full Article

Champion, Haggin Cup winner to defend titles in deep Tevis field

Jordan Georgeson
Jul 09, 2025 9:30 AM

The grueling 100-mile journey from Robie Park to the historic finish line at McCann Stadium is one of the most iconic and unforgiving trails in endurance riding. Some of the most elite horses and riders have made the trip under the July moon, and 107 entrants will compete in the Tevis Cup this Saturday.

The 69th Tevis Cup, set to begin at 5 a.m. July 12, is an endurance ride with roots dating to 1955. Last year’s field was the biggest since 2019 and while this year is a smaller field, there are still plenty of names to watch...

Read more here:
https://goldcountrymedia.com/news/326192/champion-mother-daughter-haggin-cup-winner-set-to-defend-titles-in-deep-tevis-field/

Mule ticket: Father and daughter Shane and Peyton Lesher tackle Tevis Cup on Lotto Ticket and Harvey

GoldCountryMedia.com - Full Article

Father and daughter Shane and Peyton Lesher tackle Tevis Cup on Lotto Ticket and Harvey

Jordan Georgeson
Jul 03, 2025

The Tevis Cup has always been the ultimate goal for Shane Lesher. The 100-mile endurance ride, scheduled for Saturday, July 12, serves as the ultimate challenge for both rider and equine, and a successful ride is a testament to the hard work, heart and commitment of everyone involved.

But Lesher didn’t want to do the ride on horseback, he wanted to up the ante like his mentor had done.

Lesher chooses to complete his Tevis rides on a mule named Lotto Ticket, and the duo has successfully completed the journey from Robie Park to the Gold Country Fairgrounds four times. He was inspired to ride a mule by Frank Smith, who famously completed numerous Tevis rides on a mule named Buckaroo...

Read more here:
https://goldcountrymedia.com/news/326138/mule-ticket-father-and-daughter-shane-and-peyton-lesher-tackle-tevis-cup-on-lotto-ticket-and-harvey/

Distance Horse National Championships are 60 days away

60 Days Away!

New Centerville, ID • August 29-31

The countdown is on to the 2025 Distance Horse National Championships, happening August 29-31 in New Centerville, Idaho!

Whether you're tackling Endurance or Competitive Trail, now is the perfect time to start prepping. We’ve pulled together all the key dates, ride details, and entry information in one convenient spot to help you hit the trail with confidence.

The Distance Horse National Championships is the overhead titled event, hosted by AHA, which includes partnered Breed National Championships along with Old Selam Open Rides. Our partnered breeds are Appaloosa Horse Club (ApHC), Paso Fino Horse Association (PFHA), Performance Shagya-Arabian Registry (PShR), American Morgan Horse Association (AMHA) and Akhal-Teke Association of America (ATAA).

Along with the Breed National Championships we also offer Open Old Selam 40 Mile Competitive Trail Ride recognized by AHA. We will also be holding Open Old Selam Limited Distance Ride, Open 50 Mile Endurance Rides and an Open 100 Mile Endurance Ride which is sanctioned by American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) and AHA. We

also offer a Limited Distance Challenge which is the same horse/rider combination entered in all three Open Old Selam Limited Distance Rides; rules and information can be found under the Rider Information tab. All Old Selam Rides are open to all equines and have no qualifications or membership requirements!

We can’t wait to see you in Idaho as we celebrate the grit, grace, and endurance of the Arabian horse.

To enter, or see more information, click here:
https://arabianhorses.org/competition/national-events/distance-nationals/

Tevis Trail Flyover: It's that time again!

June 27 2025

With just over two weeks left till the start of the 69th Tevis Cup, you might like to get a glimpse of the 100 miles of trail from Robie Park near Lake Tahoe, NV to the finish line at Auburn, California.

Created in 2012 by Steph Teeter of Endurance.net, now with over 40,000 views, this google earth flyover gives you a pretty accurate armchair look at the start-to-finish trail across the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Stay tuned for more updates and coverage of the Tevis Cup on July 12 here:
http://www.endurance.net/international/USA/2025TevisCup/

“See you in Auburn!”



Or link:
https://youtu.be/50mRSVybJfs?si=oC5QyMk7cXIZZy-W

In Memoriam: RTR Rimfire, A Legendary Endurance Stallion

www.endurance.net/SierraFadwah/

By Karen Chaton
June 17 2025

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of RTR Rimfire, a remarkable Arabian stallion whose legacy in endurance riding will be remembered for generations. Foaled in 2000, Rimfire embodied the strength, stamina, and spirit that define the Arabian breed, leaving an indelible mark on the equestrian world.

RTR Rimfire was bred by Running Thunder Ranch and carried a pedigree rich in endurance excellence. Sired by Sierra Fadwah and out of LFSA ZIA, his lineage traced back to some of the most accomplished endurance horses in history. His sire, Sierra Fadwah, was a celebrated endurance competitor, completing over 7,000 miles in competition, winning the Jim Jones Award in 1983, and earning a place in the American Endurance Ride Conference’s Hall of Fame. Rimfire inherited his sire’s resilience, athleticism, and unwavering determination, making him a force to be reckoned with on the endurance trails.

Throughout his career, RTR Rimfire was known for his grace, power, and tenacity, covering vast distances with remarkable efficiency. His performances in prestigious endurance races inspired riders and showcased the Arabian breed’s unparalleled suitability for long-distance competition. His sound conformation, intelligent nature, and cooperative spirit made him a favorite among those fortunate enough to ride or handle him.

Beyond his own achievements, RTR Rimfire’s greatest legacy lies in his offspring, many of whom have followed in his hoofprints to become champions in their own right. His progeny have excelled in endurance riding, carrying forward his heart, stamina, and athletic prowess. His influence in the Arabian horse community remains strong, as his descendants continue to uphold his reputation for excellence.

RTR Rimfire was more than just a competitor—he was a beloved companion, known for his kind and intelligent demeanor. His presence at Running Thunder Ranch was a source of pride and inspiration, and his loss is deeply felt by the entire team and equestrian community.

Though he has departed, RTR Rimfire’s spirit will live on through his offspring, the riders he carried, and the enduring legacy he leaves in the sport of endurance riding. We invite those who knew him to share their memories and celebrate a stallion whose heart and hooves carried him to greatness.

Details regarding memorial services or contributions in RTR Rimfire’s honor will be shared by Running Thunder Ranch. Rest in peace, Rimfire—may you gallop forever across the eternal trails.

Pre-ride the Tevis Trail – June 13-15

TevisCup.org

Is Tevis on your list for this year – or in the near future? Join the opportunity to pre-ride the hardest 50 miles of the Tevis trail with your horse.

In 2025, instead of the Tevis Educational Ride, the Western States Trail Foundation will host a two-day training ride on the actual Tevis trail on June 13-15. This training ride will cover the 50-mile stretch from Robinson Flat to the Lower Drivers Flat trailhead, located two miles before the Tevis Francisco’s vet check.

We require that all training ride entrants meet the same eligibility requirements as Tevis riders need to enter the ride (have previously completed The Tevis Cup 100 Mile Ride OR accumulated at least 300 miles on sanctioned rides of at least 35 miles/day in length).

This veterinary-monitored and fully supported training ride will offer you the opportunity to ride two technical sections of the trail close to the pace you hope to ride during the actual Tevis ride. This is an effective way to learn if you and your horse are ready to take on the ultimate endurance challenge – 2025 Tevis.

You will camp at the beautiful Chicken Hawk Staging Area/Campground. Horse water is plentiful. Plus, we will have a camp kitchen with delicious food. There will be plenty of time to visit in the evenings to share ideas and to get your questions answered.

Day 1 - you and your horse will be shuttled to Robinson Flat, the location of the first one-hour vet check during the Tevis ride. You will ride about 26 miles through the canyons and finish your day back at our Chicken Hawk basecamp. Along the trail we will have water and snacks at key stops – Last Chance and Deadwood. Veterinarians will examine your horse to see if it is fit to continue just as they would during Tevis. If your horse is unable to meet criteria, we will haul your horse back to basecamp.

Day 2 - you will ride from base camp to the Lower Drivers Flat trailhead about 24 miles. At the end of your ride, we will transport you and your horse back to Chicken Hawk Staging Area basecamp.

We hope you will take advantage of this invaluable opportunity!

For more information and to sign up, go to https://teviscup.org/tevis-education-events-for-2025/

2025 April's Horses in the Morning Endurance Podcast

HorseRadioNetwork - Listen

Endurance: Canadian FEI Rides, Arabian Horse Assoc. Distance Horse Nationals, for April 8, 2025

by Ashley Winch | Apr 8, 2025

We learn about the Arabian Horse Association’s Distance Horse Nationals and the new FEI ride happening in Canada later this year. Listen in...

https://www.horseradionetwork.com/2025/04/endurance-canadian-fei-rides-arabian-horse-assoc-distance-horse-nationals-for-april-8-2025/

Mary Margaret Koefod 1953-2025

NevadaDailyMail.com - Full Article

Saturday, May 3, 2025

Mary Margaret Koefod age 71, Milo, MO passed away April 25, 2025. She was born October 20, 1953 in Hanover, New Hampshire to David Lomas and Marion Irene (Iverson) Koefod. Mary grew up and went to High School and College in Minnesota. She had a Bachelor’s degree in Geology. She worked full time for a ranch in Minnesota working cattle, horses and sheep, while maintaining her own horse farm.

Mary started endurance racing horses in 1981. In 1984, 1985, 1986 and 1987 Mary won the American Race of Champions and was the one to beat on her beloved horse, Dana’s Northlite + also known as Diamond. In 1987 she went on to win a gold medal for the Unites States Endurance/ Olympic Team. Also in 1987 Mary rode, what was proclaimed as the toughest 100 miles in the world and was the first person to ride with no crew for help and made 3rd only minutes away from first place. In 1988 Mary rode the same horse again, only this time winning the solo division and overall race, with no crew. In the late 80’s Mary was contacted by Brown’s Saddle Company in Neveda, MO and was offered a job, due to her accomplishments in horse racing, to come all expenses paid, and help design and test ride the Ortho-flex Saddles. She worked in the stirrup department there as well. Mary rode her horses from Milo to Neveda to and from work at Brown’s keeping herself and horses in tip top shape.

Mary raised and trained many horses on her farm in Milo. She was well known for her Palomino horses that descended from “Dana’s Northlite +”. Mary also loved and rescued animals, including cats and Mustangs. She especially loved her cats, in what seemed like, more than life itself. She rescued countless numbers of cats over the years and volunteered for “Vernon County People for Pets” and local veterinarians in Vernon County.

Mary was proceeded in death by her parents, Mary never had children, but she was a cherished mentor and guiding light for others, including Wendy Justice in the art riding and training horses as well as lessons on life. Mary provided guidance and wisdom without judgement to her mentees giving them the tools to think on their own. She passed down hard work ethics and how to be humble as well as the legacy of her cherished horses. She was highly respected by many of her friends and neighbors.

A Celebration of Life Brunch will be held from 11:00-2:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at Enchanted Prairie Farm, 17557 Stockade Road, Nevada, MO. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to honor Mary’s love for animals can be made to the Nevada Animal Shelter in c/o Ferry Funeral Home, Nevada.

You may view obituary and send condolences online at www.ferryfuneralhome.com

American River Classic celebrates 50th anniversary Saturday

GoldCountryMedia.com - Full Article

Jordan Georgeson
Apr 18, 2025

The American River Classic will host its 50th ride this weekend, as 70 riders will make the 50-mile round trip that starts and ends in Cool. It's the oldest 50-mile ride worldwide that is sanctioned by the American Endurance Ride Conference.

American River Classic Ride Manager Joby Souza says the event was actually crucial to the establishment of the AERC and that it would not have taken shape without the endurance ride.

“It’s historic. It’s been going on for 50 years now. Originally, it used to go right along the American River along the Pioneer Express trail,” said Souza. “This ride is the only other ride left that allows riders to use the last few miles of the Western States Trail right during daylight. That makes it a little bit more special.”

The course has gone through several changes over the years, with the original ride starting at Cal Expo and ending in Auburn, but the objective of winning the coveted Auburn Cup remains the same...

Read more here:
https://goldcountrymedia.com/news/324900/american-river-classic-celebrates-50th-anniversary-saturday/

US Equestrian Purchases ATRM Semi-Automatic Timing System for U.S.-Based FEI Endurance Events

USEF.org

by US Equestrian Communications Department | Apr 17, 2025, 3:02 PM

Lexington, Ky. - US Equestrian is excited to announce the purchase of the ATRM Semi-Automatic Timing System for FEI Endurance Events located in the United States.

The system provides FEI Endurance Athletes with the following features:

• Countdowns for departure times and time left to cross the vet pulse/exam line.

• Printed stickers after each vet exam, which display a combination’s next departure time, the next loop’s distance, and additional vet exam data.

• Each athlete will receive their full vet card after the event is completed.

• Automatically calculates data, providing accurate time stamps for arrivals and departures of combinations, as well as relevant time limits.

The ATRM Semi-Automatic Timing System provides officials with tablets to be utilized during the first vet inspection and vet exam processes for ease of capturing data. Officially approved by the FEI in 2013, ATRM has over two decades of experience researching and implementing automatic timekeeping systems in endurance sport.

Looking ahead, US Equestrian anticipates adding VDS Racing GPS units later this spring to be used in conjunction with the timing system to help enhance the safety of athletes and horses. VDS Racing began offering GPS services to the endurance community in 2021, after spending over 15 years focused primarily on motor sports.

For any questions or for more information, please contact Nicole Zerbee at nzerbee@usef.org.

More at:
https://www.usef.org/media/press-releases/us-equestrian-purchases-atrm-semi-automatic

Western States Trail Foundation (WSTF) Acquires Robie Equestrian Park

Teviscup.org

April 9 2025

Western States Trail Foundation (WSTF) Acquires Robie Equestrian Park to Secure Consistent Start for the Tevis Cup 100-Mile Ride

The Western States Trail Foundation (WSTF) is proud to announce the acquisition of Robie Equestrian Park, a landmark move that will ensure a consistent and permanent starting point for the foundation’s key event: the iconic Tevis Cup 100-Mile Ride.

Robie Equestrian Park is a 160-acre horse camp and outdoor sport staging area previously owned by the Wendell & Inez Robie Foundation. The park is named in memory of Wendell Robie, who founded the 100-mile Western States Trail Ride – or ‘Tevis Cup’ – in 1955.

Preserving the History of the West

Located east of Truckee, CA, Robie Equestrian Park marks the start of the historic Western States Trail. In addition to the Tevis Cup, the Western States Trail also hosts several ultramarathons including the foundational 100-mile Western States Run, which originated out of the equestrian event.

The trail follows a rugged route from the base of the Sierra Nevada near Lake Tahoe along an immigrant trail that ends in Auburn. It traverses the scenic mountain peaks and valleys of the Sierra foothills and crosses several tributaries to the American River on its way. The Western States Trail Foundation has pledged to preserve the rich history of this trail, hallowed by the Washoe and Maidu tribes and traveled by explorers, settlers, and gold-seekers. Securing the Future of Endurance Riding

The Tevis Cup is universally regarded as one of the most demanding endurance rides in the world, testing the stamina, skill and perseverance of both horse and rider.

More at https://teviscup.org/robie-park-purchase/

2025 March's Horses in the Morning Endurance Podcast

HorseRadioNetwork.com - Listen

Endurance Hall of Fame Winners and Saddle Pack Essentials for March 11, 2025

by Horse Radio Network | Mar 11, 2025 | Horses in the Morning

We are thrilled to speak with Lisa Snyder, an esteemed figure recently inducted into the AERC Hall of Fame. Gunner Frank, the owner of Trinity, a horse also inducted in the Hall of Fame, shares his journey and the remarkable attributes that contribute to Trinity’s success. Plus, in the Endurance tip Karen shares the things she carries on a ride in her packs. Listen in...

More at:
https://www.horseradionetwork.com/2025/03/endurance-hall-of-fame-winners-and-saddle-pack-essentials-for-march-11-2025/

Endurance: In it for the long haul

SundanceTimes.com - Full Article

Sarah Pridgeon | Mar 27, 2025

As the weather begins to warm, Bridget Helms and her daughter, Chelsea, are already prepar-ing to embark on a series of long-distance challenges.

It's surprising how few people have heard of endurance riding around here, Helms says, as it's been around for a while. It's a perfect pastime for horse lovers looking for a new way to spend time with their animals and appreciate what that partnership can achieve.

"It's been a sport for a long time, but there's a lot of people that definitely haven't heard about it," she says.

Helms came across endurance riding through a horse-related group on social media, which was advertising introductory rides with the American Endurance Ride Conference.

Those first ten miles hooked her immediately, so in 2018 she began participating in 25-mile rac-es with the help of a mentor – and it wasn't long before she tried her first 50-mile trail.

The distance a horse and rider choose to travel is determined by the condition of both parties, she explains – both must be up to the task. When Helms got started, she chose to stick with the 25 miles because she felt she didn't have the understanding yet to know if she could push for more.

But when her mentor felt that Helms' horse was conditioned and strong enough for the longer stretch, she decided to give it a try...

Read more here:
https://www.sundancetimes.com/story/2025/03/27/outdoors/in-it-for-the-long-haul/10657.html

Congratulations to Dave Rabe and White Cloud10 for being awarded the 2024 AERC Pard'ners Award

March 14 2025

*thanks to Connie Creech, who shared with us her nomination of Dave Rabe and White Cloud10 for this prestigious award!

The dynamic duo did indeed receive the Pard'ners Award at the 2025 AERC Convention*

Nomination of Dave Rabe and White Cloud10 for the AERC Pard’ners Award

Dave and White Cloud personify the Pard’ners Awards’ abiding goal of the AERC motto “To Finish is to Win”. Their partnership developed over many years overcoming past abuse with trust and friendship. White Clouds long duration of soundness, his desire and willingness to travel over hill and dale along with Dave’s personal care and management, allowed him to reach significant mileage and award achievements.

Their shared partnership riding through six AERC Regions over fifteen seasons, included (10) one hundred-mile in one day rides, numerous pioneer rides, (224) completions from (232) starts in a total of 11,925 AERC miles. The pair won National Mileage Champions two times, out of four times placing. They won the National Pioneer Award in 2010, also placing third in 2009. In the West Region Dave and White Cloud along with his pasture mates Rushcreek Okay, Ravenwood Moshan, Midnight Melody Marie and Chey’s Cocamoe Joe were Regional Mileage Champions (total annual mileage one or two horses) for ten years. White Cloud also placed in the West Region Middleweight Division seven separate times, winning first place four times.

Dave found Cloud (his name at the time) at a nearby horse rescue ranch in 2007. The owner told Dave the non-registered gelding was dropped off as a dangerous, explosive, un-rideable and unwanted horse. Dave could tell right off he had some Arabian breeding with excellent conformation and smooth gaits. He decided to try him out to see what his problems were and was able to get him loaded in the trailer. Dave trailered him over to his friend Connie’s place and worked him in her round pen. Both were impressed with his gliding efficient movement and his presence. He was able to saddle him up with no problem. However, when he tried to mount the action began. The horse was not going to allow him to mount and immediately started bucking before Dave could even get a leg over him. Dave still thought he was worth the gamble, even though he may have been abused and frightened and was very defensive. He would probably make a good endurance horse, if he could work him through his problems.

So, their journey together started. He had his Veterinarian Susan, check him over and she aged him by his teeth as a seven year old. There were dark rain clouds rolling in that day which gave Dave the idea to change his name from Cloud, and since he didn’t like dark clouds, to White Cloud. The name fit perfectly and was like an omen to Dave. Dave worked and conditioned White Cloud through the winter and spring and they did their first ride together at the Washoe Valley 50 in May of 2008. Still difficult to mount, at the Fort Schellbourne XP ride in June, Dave’s good friend Kerry, also an excellent horse trainer worked with White Cloud. Kerry is the only person other than Dave to ride White Cloud in his long career.

In 2011 White Cloud sustained a hind leg suspensory ligament injury. This brought out another demon afflicting White Cloud about trusting to have his hind legs picked up and handled. With great care and rehab White Cloud fully recovered and healed from the injury, while overcoming this fear from his past. Another setback for them was in 2013 when Dave tried to mount White Cloud as he was walking out from the start of the Death Valley ride. Old gremlins from the past revealed themselves when White Cloud exploded and Dave landed on his head, giving him a severe head injury which put Dave in the hospital for over a month. From that day forward Dave’s cowboy image was humbled to wear a safety equestrian helmet.

White Cloud passed at the assumed age of 23 years, in March of 2023 due to internal cancer tumors. He will forever have a special place in Dave’s heart, a bond that brought them through some of their life struggles. There is no doubt that if not for Dave finding White Cloud at the horse rescue ranch, he was able to save his life and give him a chance to excel at endurance riding becoming his lifetime partner.

Respectfully Submitted,
Connie Creech
AERC #172

New AERC Hall of Famers announced at AERC Convention

March 10 2025

AERC welcomed a new group into the Hall of Fame class, and presented additional awards, at National Awards banquet of the 2025 AERC Convention in Reno, Nevada on March 8.

Hall of Fame Person: Lisa Schneider

Hall of Fame Equine: Trinity, owned and ridden by Gunnar Frank

Pard’ners Award recipients: Dave Rabe and White Cloud

Ann Parr Trails Preservation Award recipient: Nicole Wertz

Charlie Barieau Photography Excellence Award: Merri Melde

Greg Kimler of Echo Valley Ranch in Auburn was presented the Dru Barner award from the Western States Trail Foundation, for those who contribute to and uphold the goals of the Western States Foundation, and have helped maintain the integrity and dignity of the Tevis Cup.

Kathy Lea Arnold 1957-2025

Legacy.com

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Bryant Funeral Home - Worland on Mar. 6, 2025.

Kathy Lea Arnold

May 9, 1957- March 4, 2025

Kathy Lea Arnold, 67, of Basin passed away in Green River Wyoming, on March 4, 2025. She and Bud are together in Heaven now, probably chasing cows.

Kathy was born May 9, 1957, in Iowa to Lloyd and Alta Morstad. She married Bud Arnold on September 4, 1988, and they spent their lives doing what they loved-- farming, ranching, and riding. Kathy loved all animals but most of all her horses. She was an avid horsewoman; an accomplished endurance rider competing across the country. She was very involved in Endurance including the Big Horn 100. In their younger days she and Bud enjoyed team roping.

Survivors include sister Suzanne Morstad of Basin; sister-in-law Barb Arnold VanMatre of Green River; beloved companion Chancy; a herd of horses; and many friends including the special ones who helped her during the final days.

She was predeceased by her husband of 36 years, Bud Arnold.

Services will be held at 12 o'clock noon Friday, March 14, 2025, at the Mountain View Assembly Church (501 2nd Street Ten Sleep, Wyoming). Burial will be in the Ten Sleep Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at www.bryantfuneralhomeonline.com. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Kathy, please visit our floral store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

2025 February's Horses in the Morning Endurance Podcast

HorseRadioNetwork.com - Listen

Endurance: Rider’s Mindset, Packing After Show and Green beans for February 11, 2025

by Horse Radio Network | Feb 11, 2025 | Horses in the Morning

Joanna Ziettero joins us to talk about the joys of packing up at the end of a show. Erin Grogan speaks about the “That Girl HRN Auditor Team” and “Green Bean Endurance” for 2025 and Kristen from The Distance Depot explains hackamores. Listen in…

Listen:
https://www.horseradionetwork.com/2025/02/endurance-riders-mindset-packing-after-show-and-green-beans-for-february-11-2025/

Michigan's Shore to Shore returns for one year only in summer 2025

ShoreToShoreRide.com

Don't miss it! - 250 miles (with options) - July 27 to August 2, 2025

Michigan’s Shore to Shore Distance ride is a historic ride beginning on the east side and traveling across the state to the west side, from Oscoda, MI to Empire, MI. Riders and their horses will be able to dip their ‘hoof’ into Lake Huron and Lake Michigan.

40 years after the first ride in 1985-2018, the ride is being resurrected for one year only in 2025. If you’ve ever wanted to ride it, mark your calendars!

Rhoda Ritter was an endurance rider and had the passion to create and manage a Michigan Shore to Shore 250 Mile race in 1985. The ride was a 5-day 50-mile ride totaling 250 miles held on the Shore to Shore Trail.

Previous ride managers Wayne Gastfield and Bruce Birr kept the ride going until 2018.

40 years after the very first ride, it’s coming back for one year only during the last week of July, 2025.

Dr. Rae Mayer, D.V.M (head vet) and Bruce Birr (timer) will be assuming their roles just like they have done since 1985.

For information on the ride, see:
https://shoretoshoreride.com/

2025 AERC National Championship cancelled

AERC.org

February 11 2025

In light of the cancellation of the 2025 AERC National Championship ride, that was to be held at the Biltmore Estate, the National Championship Committee recommended canceling the National Championship for the 2025 ride season. While some ride managers showed interest in hosting it this year, the Committee determined it was unfair to those unaware of the opportunity, and that the short timeframe would not allow sufficient preparation for a true National Championship ride. The Board unanimously agreed.

Going forward, the plan is to solicit ride managers on the eastern side of the US for the 2026 event. The Committee will present results by mid-summer, providing ample time for promotion and planning for the 2026 event.

Endurance breeder Dr Tom Sayvetz wins national award

January 28 2025
By Holly Corcoran

The endurance community is proudly celebrating Dr. Tom Sayvetz of Asgard Arabians, who was honored with The Ellen Scripps Davis Memorial Breeder’s Award at the USEF Pegasus Award ceremony on Thursday, January 23rd, in Lexington, KY. Dr. Sayvetz has devoted nearly 50 years to breeding award-winning Arabian horses from the finest Russian blended with French and Crabbet bloodlines. Together with his late wife, Halldis (Holly), who passed away in 2021, he poured passion and dedication into every breeding, foal crop, and success achieved by their horses.

During his heartfelt acceptance speech, Dr. Sayvetz reflected on the significance of their Norse ship logo, saying, “The Asgard ship has finally landed and discovered our New World … I’m sure somewhere in Valhalla my Holly (Halldis) is beaming with joy and fulfillment.”

Asgard Arabians are exclusively sport-bred, exemplifying exceptional athleticism proven by their accomplishments in AERC and FEI competitions. Under Dr. Sayvetz’s leadership, Asgard Arabians has bred 400 registered Arabian horses, of which 147 are AERC-registered and 45 are FEI-passported athletes. In FEI competitions, Asgard Arabians have competed 17,680 miles, achieving 202 Top Ten finishes and 42 first-place wins. In AERC events, their horses have successfully completed 120,470 miles, earning 1,329 Top Ten completions, 187 Best Condition awards, and 158 first-place finishes. Dr. Tom and Holly Sayvetz also supported the endurance community by donating 25 raffle horses to the Old Dominion Equestrian Endurance Organization, which hosts the Beast of the East OD 100-mile ride. Their horses have gained recognition not only across the U.S. but internationally as well, with many sold worldwide to enhance other breeding and competition programs. || This award represents a remarkable legacy and an extraordinary contribution to endurance, highlighting the achievement by excelling among many other breeds and disciplines. The entire endurance community joins in celebrating this milestone recognition, which honors both the Asgard Arabians’ achievements and Dr. Sayvetz’s unwavering commitment to the sport.

Entries now open for the 2025 Tevis Cup

Teviscup.org

It’s never too late to plan early! Entries are now open for the 69th running of the Tevis Cup, which will be held on July 12, 2025.

Traditional Entry: $500  ($600 on and after June 29, 2025), Signature Entry: $1600

To qualify to enter the Western States Trail Ride, Riders (not the equine) must, at the time of application, meet one of the two qualifications below. The equine must be a minimum of 72 months (6 years) old at the time of the ride. Mares in foal and/or lactating are not allowed to enter the Ride.

1. I have previously completed the Western States Trail Ride. OR 2. I have completed a total of 300 miles of rides sanctioned by WSTF, AERC, NATRC, and/or a national/international equivalent. All rides were 35 miles/day or more in length. The 300 miles are cumulative lifetime.

Rules governing the WSTF differ in some respects from those of other AERC sanctioned rides. The WSTF Rules will be applied and adhered to before, during and after the Ride.

Receipt of a completed entry by the WSTF does not guarantee acceptance to the ride.

When the limit of 210 participants has been reached, further entries will be placed on a waiting list. Ten additional entries in the Ride List are discretionary and are generally accorded to foreign riders.

Applications by junior riders who are over 12 and under 18 on ride day will only be considered if accompanied by the entry of an adult rider (21 years or older) as sponsor.

All entries must be completed online. Link to the entry form is here: https://teviscup.org/about-the-ride/entering-the-ride/

Vicki Jayne Rutter Passes

Legacy.com

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jan. 22, 2025.

Vicki passed away in Patagonia, AZ on January 4, 2025 at the age of 68.

Vicki was born in Spokane, WA to parents Louie and Vivian Dragnich and lived in Republic, WA where she developed a life-long passion for riding horses and caring for animals. She shared her childhood with her brothers Larry, Terry, and Nick. After graduating high school, she moved to Spokane, WA and started working for James S. Black, then as a CPA for McDirmid, Mikkelsen & Secrest.

Vicki's passion in life was all about the horses. In 1983, she began Endurance riding and was a member of the American Endurance Ride Conference, competing and volunteering for the organization. She competed in 50 and 100 mile rides, accumulating almost 20,000 total miles in her 23 years of competition.

To add to her active and hard-working life of horses and accounting, in 1984 she married Stephen Rutter, M.D. They remained in Spokane until 1994, when they retired and moved to warmer weather in Patagonia, AZ, where they built a small ranch where Vicki could spend even more time with her beloved horses. Steve became active in Endurance competitions as well and volunteered at the vet check stations.

After retiring her spurs and saddles from Endurance competition, Vicki's love and dedication to animals continued as she would adopt and foster dozens of horses, dogs and cats.

Vicki is preceded in death by her mother and father, and her brother Terry (Melinda, living). Vicki is survived in death by her husband Steve, brothers Nick and Larry (Lori), and stepson Bret (Lisa), along with numerous nieces, nephews and dear cousins. Vicki is fondly remembered by the many valued friends, those old and new. Vicki's memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her and the dedication she maintained her entire life, for the care of animals.

Memorial donations can be made in Vicki's name to to Equine Voices, P.O. Box 1685, Green Valley, AZ 85622 or at www.equinevoices.org

Safe From the Flames: LA Horses Rescued

Horse-canada.com - Full Article

The California community has pitched in for the animals with money donations, feed, supplies and volunteers on the ground.

By: Kim Izzo | January 14, 2025

The images are harrowing and horrific, as homes, automobiles, churches and businesses are reduced to ash and rubble due to the apocalyptic fires that continue to destroy acres and lives in Los Angeles County, California. As thousands fled last week due to mandatory evacuations, horses, donkeys and other large animals had to be rescued.

One of the areas hardest hit by the Eaton Fire, which began on January 7, is Altadena in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. It’s an area known for its horse community. “People have horses in their backyards in these neighborhoods,” Leigh Anne Claywell, general manager of the Los Angeles Equestrian Center (LAEC) told Reuters. “It’s been a horsey area for a long time. This is kind of where the Hollywood Western was born, because of all the cowboys and the ranches that used to be in this area...”

Read more here:
https://horse-canada.com/horse-news/safe-from-the-flames-la-horses-rescued/?vgo_ee=EZN%2BIp8gdDWlb78K45VFKFNqdxoByaE1P811%2BsnXOZPYhz7K3LLP%3AvOpbZwyA%2B0bPk%2FWqEQ%2F1QBQ%2F%2BbKe5lep

Register now for the 2025 AERC Convention in Sparks, Nevada

AERC.org

March 7 & 8, 2025 • Nugget Casino Resort • Sparks, Nevada

Back to the Reno area for a member-favorite location — the Nugget is truly an all-in-one resort with multiple restaurants, a fitness center and pool and arcade. Best of all: free parking and a free airport shuttle!

But of course the convention happenings will be the highlight. We’re thrilled to have a terrific lineup of speakers, including Harold Schott, DVM, PhD, DACVIM, of the Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine, presenting on both days.

And, of course, the must-haves that make convention so worthwhile (and fun): the regional awards ceremony on Friday evening, followed by the Friday night dance, and the convention culminates with the don’t miss national awards banquet on Saturday. And how can we forget to mention the fabulous trade show, with shopping galore geared just for you. You can also buy (and sell) at the tack swap, and try your luck at the AERC raffle!

We hope you will join in the fun on March 7 & 8, 2025, at the Nugget Casino Resort in Sparks, Nevada.

Sign up by February 25 to receive the lowest seminar prices and to reserve your banquet tickets. Reserve your hotel room by February 16 to receive the AERC group discount. Call to reserve: 800-648-1177 (mention GAERC25/nonsmoking room for lowest rates) or make your reservation online. See AERC.org/Convention for more information about hotel dates and rates (ranges from @ $112-$150 including fees and taxes).

Seminar Presentations Friday

• Getting to the Next Level - Erin McChesney
• What You Should Know About Equine Skin Diseases - Hal Schott, DVM, PhD, DACVIM
• Your Equine and Insurance - Diane Lesher, President, Equisure, Inc.
• Getting to YOUR Finish Line: Set Yourself Up for a Successful Season - Tami Rougeau & Mollie Krumlaw-Smith

Seminar Presentations Saturday

• What to Expect from a Ride: Ride Management, Trails, Vets, Personal Responsibility - Tami Rougeau & Mollie Krumlaw-Smith
• All About Cushing’s Disease - Hal Schott, DVM, PhD, DACVIM
• What to Watch for After the Ride - Robert Marshall, DVM, & Nick Kohut, DVM
• The Tevis Ride – Panel Discussion - A presentation by members of the Western States Trails Foundation

See more and register here:
https://aerc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2025ConventionFlyer.pdf

US Equestrian Announces 2024 USEF Endurance Award Winners

 by Isabelle Whiteside/US Equestrian Communications Dept. | Jan 14, 2025, 11:00 AM

Lexington, Ky. - US Equestrian proudly congratulates the recipients of the 2024 USEF Endurance Year-End Awards. New to 2024, these awards celebrate their inaugural season, recognizing the exceptional achievements of our endurance athletes and horses.  For detailed descriptions of the 2025 awards program, click here. 

Top Ten National-Ranked Senior Athletes 
Awarded to the top senior athletes on the national athlete ranking list 

1. Alex Shampoe: Maggie Price Endurance Excellence Award recipient for being the top nationally ranked Senior Rider. 
2. Cheryl Van Deusen 
3. Nathalie Weemaels 
4. Kelsey Russell 
5. Holly Corcoran 
6. Margaret Sleeper 
7. Jessica Dicamillo 
8. Heather Davis 
9. Anastassia Savini 
10. Heidi Perreault 

Top National-Ranked Junior/Young Rider Athletes  
Awarded to the top Junior/Young Riders on the national athlete ranking list 

   1. Annamaria Clarke: Brunjes Junior/Young Rider Endurance Trophy recipient for being the top nationally ranked Junior/Young Rider. 
   2. Uma Kraskin 
   3. Avery Betz-Conway 
   4. Ansley Conway 
   5. Meghan Wert 
   6. Aubrey Muthard 
   7. Vanessa Erickson 
   8. Kylie Wert 
   8. Tierney Beloberk 
   10. Lila Reeder 

Click here to view the full Athlete of the Year Ranking List 
 

©Leslie Potter/US Equestrian

Endurance Athlete of the Year Award – Alex Shampoe 
Awarded to the rider ranked first on the annual national athlete ranking list 

Alex Shampoe had an incredible 2024 USEF Endurance competition year (December 1 – November 30). Her year started off strong with a win in the CEI2* 120km at Goethe Gallivant in Dunnellon Fla, aboard AM Lord Lewis UA with a time of 10:02:41. Alex continued her successes with wins in the CEI3* 160km at Rocky Road with Southern Justice in Spearman, Texas, and Ride in the Pines in Cheraw, S.C. and the USA Northeast Team Challenge Championship in Elkton, Md on Promissin Gold. Her fastest time in the 160km came at the end of the season with a 11:29:30, on Southern Justice at the Broxton Bridge: Fall Rides in Ehrhardt, S.C. 

 

Endurance Horse of the Year Award – Juno Im Gold 
Awarded to the owner of the horse ranked first on the annual national horse ranking list. 

Juno Im Gold (Flash Golden x LM Parys) is a 10-year-old half-Arabian gelding, owned by Valarie Kanavy. 2024 was an incredibly successful competition year for Juno Im Gold and his rider, Kelsey Russell. Together, the duo won top placings in the CEI3* 160km at Williston and Dunnellon, Fla as well as Cimarron, NM. Their highest accomplishment of the year was achieving a completion together at the 2024 FEI Endurance World Championship in Monpazier, FRA.  
 

©Maria Phillips Photography

Endurance Best Condition Season Award – Promissin Gold 
Awarded to the owner of the horse ranked first on the annual national best condition standings 

Promissin Gold (ZT Raashaqa x Hals Metourmaline) is a 12-year-old Arabian mare, owned by Valarie Kanavy. In the 2024 competition year, Promissin Gold along with her rider, Alex Shampoe proved an extremely successful duo. Most notably, the duo won both the CEI3* 160km at Ride in the Pines in Cheraw, S.C., and the CEI3* 160km at the USA Northeast Team Challenge Championship in Elkton, Md. 
 

 

 

A True Gem: Belesema Sapphire Becomes Endurance Horse Breyer Model

Breyerhorses.com

January 3 2025

Meet Belesema Sapphire!

Meg Sleeper met Belesema Sapphire, a chestnut Arabian mare, when the horse’s previous owner could no longer keep her. After just a few months of training and getting to know the sensitive mare, Meg discovered she was talented but very herd-bound and lacked confidence in herself and her rider, which caused her to act out.

Meg decided that it would be best if Sapphire was only ridden by one person so they could build trust between each other. They went to work and trained solo on the trails, rarely joining group rides. These many hours helped fortify the bond between Sapphire and Meg, and they became a true team. Now 13 years old, Sapphire is not only is a force to be reckoned with on the trails, but her abilities in endurance competitions have made her a star! Her accomplishments include 1st place for the American Endurance Ride Conference's National 100 Mile Award and National Best Condition Award, and she was the 2023 Arabian Horse Association 100 Mile Award recipient.

Endurance riding tests the horse’s ability to cover long distances over varying terrain, altitude, and weather. It not only tests the horse’s fitness and stamina, but the connection and trust between horse and rider.

For this summer’s BreyerFest, Belesema Sapphire's portrait model is painted in a glowing chestnut on the Arabian Mare mold (#706), sculpted by Kathleen Moody. Her model will be available as a part of this year’s Limited Edition lineup which available to all ticket holders whether you’re joining us in-person or online! VIP ticket buyers will have the ability to pre-select and pre-purchase model at the time of their ticket purchase, guaranteeing their selection.

Megs sums up what working with Sapphire means to her best by saying, “I feel honored that she considers me worthy... when you are both enjoying – indeed loving – the experience, there is nothing you can’t accomplish.” Sapphire and Meg’s trust and bond with each other is truly something to celebrate!

2024 December's Horse in the Morning Endurance Podcast

HorseRadioNetwork.com - Listen

Endurance: Overcoming Injuries & Embracing Growth for December 10, 2024

by Horse Radio Network | Dec 10, 2024 | Horses in the Morning

Lynn Beazley joins us to tell us how recovering from an injury as a horseback rider over 60 is both a challenge and an opportunity for growth. Plus, Karen chats about the importance of stretching before a ride and Kristen at Distance Depot Distance Depot tells us about the new True Grit Saddle Packs. Listen in...

https://www.horseradionetwork.com/2024/12/endurance-overcoming-injuries-embracing-growth-for-december-10-2024-horses-in-the-morning/

2024 November's Horses in the Morning Endurance Podcast

HorseRadioNetwork.com - Listen

Endurance: Tom Quilty Gold Cup, The Long Ride and – HORSES IN THE MORNING

by Ashley Winch | Nov 12, 2024

Ashley Wingert tells us all about her adventure riding in the Tom Quilty Gold Cup, Australia’s premiere 100 mile ride. Dr. Lucian Spataro Jr., on his book “The Long Ride”. It is a beautiful chronology of a place in time when three horses and a team of people were doing the “right thing” against very long odds; their perseverance is even more inspiring today, twenty years later. In Karen’s training tip she talks about negative splits, riding the first half of an endurance ride slower than the second. Listen in…

https://www.horseradionetwork.com/2024/11/endurance-tom-quilty-gold-cup-the-long-ride-and/

US Equestrian Congratulates Active FEI Endurance Elite Athletes

USEF.org

by Isabelle Whiteside/US Equestrian Communications Dept. | Dec 16, 2024, 3:00 PM

Lexington, Ky. - US Equestrian congratulates select US Endurance athletes on their FEI Endurance Elite Athletes status. Special recognition is extended to the athletes that have achieved the FEI Endurance Elite Athlete status during 2024.

An Elite Endurance Athlete is defined as someone who, in their lifetime of competing within FEI Endurance, has reached the following milestones for 1*/2*/3* level of competition.

Bronze Level - 10 completions within the applicable * level

Silver Level - 20 completions within the applicable * level

Gold Level is - 30 completions within the applicable * level

The following athletes have been awarded the FEI Endurance Elite Athlete status.

Senior Athletes

Karen Binns-Dicamillo - 2* & 3* Bronze

Melody Blittersdorf - 1*, 2*, & 3* Bronze

Holly Corcoran - 2* Bronze & 3* Silver

Jessica Dicamillo - 1*, 2*, & 3* Bronze

Heather Reynolds - 3* Bronze; 1* & 2* Silver (achieved 1* Silver status in 2024)

Jeremy Reynolds - 1* Bronze; 2* and 3* Silver

Stephen Rojek - 1* & 2* Bronze; 3* Gold

Kelsey Russell - 1* & 3* Silver; 2* Gold (achieved 3* Silver status in 2024)

Meg Sleeper - 3* Bronze

Cheryl Van Deusen - 1* Silver; 2* & 3* Gold

Young Rider/Junior Athletes

Avery Betz-Conway - 2* Bronze

Annamaria Clarke – 2* Bronze (achieved 2* Bronze status in 2024)

Uma Kraskin - 2* Bronze (achieved 2* Bronze status in 2024)

More at:
https://www.usef.org/media/press-releases/us-equestrian-congratulates-active-fei-endurance

Dave Rabe’s Cheys Cocamoe Joe is AHA’s 2024 Distance Horse of the Year

November 28 2024
By Nina Bomar

Longtime endurance rider, PS Regional director, and friend to many, Marci Schmidt Cunningham, took it upon herself to nominate Dave Rabe and Cocamoe Joe for the Arabian Horse Association “Distance Horse of the Year Award”. It is no surprise that he and his horse emerged victorious!

This special award belongs to a deserving team that will appreciate and enjoy it for many years. It’s a great honor and tribute to Dave, a talented and enduring horseman, and his horse “Cocamoe Joe,” who knows how to get things done!

Dave's happiness soared when he found out, and immediately shared the news with Cocamoe Joe. I can say with certainty that their pride in receiving such an honorable recognition shines brightly.

Please enjoy the nomination letter I’ve shared below, which Marci passionately wrote and submitted to AHA. Thank you, Marci, for doing a great thing for our most accomplished endurance rider in AERC history and his perfect 10+ horse, Cocamoe Joe.

“Cheys Cocamoe Joe started his endurance career in 2011 during the Twenty Eleven Pony Express ride from St Joe MO to Virginia City NV over eight weeks. He was part of Australian Charlie Gauci’s string of horses that he brought to the ride. At the end of the ride, Charlie gave him to Dave Rabe because no one wanted to buy him since he had a reputation for being unruly. As of 2024 Dave Rabe has been riding AERC sanctioned endurance rides for close to 40 years and has over 78,000 miles. However, this write up is not about Dave Rabe, but Cheys Cocamoe Joe and what he has accomplished in his fourteen seasons of endurance, most notably his “Perfect 10” award.

“The AERC “Perfect 10” award is one of the most coveted awards that AERC offers and the most difficult to achieve. In 2023, Cheys Cocamoe Joe became a “Perfect 10” which means that he has competed for at least 10 years, with 10,000 miles, 10 first place finishes, and 10 best condition awards. Only ten equines have achieved this AERC award since its inception in 1997. There are thousands of horses that have competed in AERC endurance rides over the years but only a minute fraction has become “Perfect 10” recipients. It is hard to imagine riding a horse 10 plus years for 10,000 miles with 10 first place finishes and 10 best condition awards, and Cheys Cocamoe Joe is one of only ten horses with this accomplishment.

“Dave admires him for both his strength and determination. They often disagree on their speed and pacing, but Dave has done a great job conserving him and keeping him sound and healthy. Cheys Cocamoe Joe is always ready for the next ride, even after achieving the Perfect 10 award. One of their most memorable rides was the 2016 Shamrock ride where they were first place and Cheys Cocamoe Joe received Best Condition with a perfect vet score of 800 points.

“Out of 230 endurance ride starts, Cheys Cocamoe Joe has 222 completions, 15 first places, and 14 Best Condition awards over his career to date. He has completed 4 one hundred-mile rides, including the Tevis Cup in 2018 when Charlie Gauci flew back to the states from Australia to compete. Dave had promised Charlie that he could ride him in the Tevis Cup. Cheys Cocamoe Joe was ‘Top 5’ in the 2015, 2021, and 2024 AHA Region 2 Fifty Mile Endurance Championship Rides.

“From 2015 through 2023* Cheys Cocamoe Joe has placed in the year-end AERC West Region Middleweight division standings. He was first place in every year except for 2018 and 2019 where he placed second and third, respectively. In 2015, 2022, and 2023 he placed first overall in the West Region, one of the largest and most competitive AERC regions. Regional Points are based on horse/rider teams in each region earning the most weight division and overall points. In 2023 Dave and Cheys Cocamoe Joe received the AERC National Senior Mileage Championship Award completing 1,275 miles, besting the second-place horse by 305 miles.

“Cheys Cocamoe Joe turned nineteen in 2024 and is still competing in endurance with 11,500 miles to date, 410 of those miles are in 2024. With a 14-year career and still going strong, Cheys Cocamoe Joe will be competing for many years with Dave Rabe’s guidance and is a worthy recipient of the 2024 AHA Distance Horse of the Year Award.”

*There were no year-end awards in 2020 due to Covid.

2024 October's Horses in the Morning Endurance Podcast

HorseRadioNetwork.com - Listen

by Ashley Winch | Oct 8, 2024

Revisit: Today we look back at some great tips we got over the years. First, Victoria Beelik discusses the most important things to do to plan now for an emergency with your animals. Then Karen explains what tailing in an endurance ride is and how to do it safely. Finally, Karen discusses ride strategy to make sure you and your horse complete your ride. Listen in...

https://www.horseradionetwork.com/2024/10/endurance-revisit-emergencies-tailing-and-ride-strategy-for-october-8-2024-horses-in-the-morning/

Vonita Kay Bowers 1954-2024

Hornnailhaggardfh.com

Vonita Kay Bowers was born on February 25, 1954 to Gordon and Mary Cooper Tipping. She passed away on November 23, 2024, at the age of 70.

Vonita had a deep passion for horseback riding and was a dedicated equestrian. With 9,960 competition miles, she competed across North America as an Endurance rider for almost 40 years.

Vonita is preceded in death by her parents, Gordon and Mary Lois Tipping; loving husband, Dr. Michael L. Bowers; sisters, Geneva Murl Tipping, Janice Tipping Griffith; brothers, Jack Tipping, Donald Tipping; friend and companion, Joe Herron. Those left to cherish her memory are her sons, Aaron Bowers and wife, Britney, Matt Bowers and wife, Amanda; grandchildren, Haley Bowers, Piper Bowers, Lailah Bowers, Abigail Bowers, Michael R. Bowers; beloved nephew, Bill Bowers and wife, Stephanie; brother, Anthony Tipping; numerous nieces and nephews, friends, and extended family; as well as friend and companion, Russell Broussard.

The family would like to thank Chambers Hospice for their dedication and support during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the Prevent Cancer Foundation. https://preventcancer.org/donate/

A visitation will be held on Monday, November 25, 2024, from 5-7 PM in the chapel of Horn-Nail-Haggard Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at 10 AM in the chapel of Horn-Nail-Haggard Funeral Home. Interment will take place in Hughes Springs Cemetery.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Vonita Kay Bowers please visit our Sympathy Store.

NW Endurance Rider Barb McGann Releases New Ebook

November 23 2024

All The Great Horses (And How They Enriched My Life Through The Years) is a new ebook release from Idaho Endurance rider Barb McGann. It joins the Endurance.net bookshelf as a keeper!

Seen through the eyes of a horse-crazy young 9-year-old girl, and now, a mature horse-crazy adult with a lifetime of equine wisdom, McGann shares with readers stories of some of the most memorable horses and riding adventures throughout her lifetime. From her first Quarter horse/Morgan mare Lil to her last horses Katie and Ellie, she recounts the accomplishments and personalities of these special horses that touched her heart and set the course(s) of her life.

As a young girl, McGann and her mom ran a riding stable in the red rock canyons of Utah, and besides the memorable horses they owned, taking German soldiers stationed at White Sands, NM, provided endless miles and memories and, in some cases, entertainment for both McGann and the German Dudes.

Once McGann discovered Endurance riding in the 1970s, the horse adventures took off in a whole new direction. Riding Arabians, Saddlebreds, Standardbreds, Quarter horses, and a Tennessee Walker over the decades, McGann’s escapades in and out of the saddle will surprise and delight anyone who has ever had - or wanted - a horse of their own.

Get it on Amazon here:
https://www.amazon.com/ALL-GREAT-HORSES-ENRICHED-THROUGH-ebook/dp/B0DNRVB3WW/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.vyCW7KuXTWqEWag3g5kmeg.Wi8l0A9-3yVnBOEeFoBLGLqHXTihBhnPMJXmn8bMU78&dib_tag=se&qid=1732465236&refinements=p_27%3ABARB+MCGANN&s=digital-text&sr=1-1&text=BARB+MCGANN

See the rest of Endurance.net’s bookshelf here:
http://www.endurance.net/Books/

Applications Now Open for 2025 USEF Endurance Competition and U.S. FEI Endurance Officials Grants

USEF.org

by US Equestrian Communications Dept. | Nov 14, 2024, 8:00 AM

Lexington, Ky. – US Equestrian is now accepting applications for the Endurance Competition Grant and U.S. FEI Endurance Officials Grant. These grants are intended to support FEI Endurance competitions in the U.S. to maintain a healthy calendar of competitions, as well as to support U.S. FEI endurance officials and maintain a healthy number of officials that are licensed in the U.S. Applications for both grants are due by February 1, 2025.

Competition Grant:

• Application deadline is February 1st, 2025

• Financial support for U.S. FEI Licensed Endurance competitions for 2025

• Competitions must be licensed by USEF and sanctioned by the FEI

• Grant amounts will be communicated by March 1, 2025

• More information can be found on the application



U.S. FEI Endurance Officials Grant:

Application deadline is February 1st, 2025

Financial support for U.S. FEI endurance officials for both maintenance requirements and promotion, education, and experience

Applicants must be:

• in good standing with the USEF and the FEI; and

• an active FEI official working toward their current license(s) maintenance requirements; or

• seeking FEI Endurance license or promotion

Grant amounts will be communicated by March 1, 2025

More information can be found on the application



Completed applications for both grants must be submitted to Nicole Zerbee, USEF Director of Endurance, by Feb. 1, 2025.

Questions? Contact Nicole Zerbee, Director of Endurance, at nzerbee@usef.org or 859-225-6952.

Tom Bowling Passes Away

On 11/17/24, AERC lost a family member who fought a tough battle with Parkinson’s after a stroke several years ago.

For those who knew Tom Bowling, past AERC director for many years, 2000 mile XP rider, founder of Pioneer rides in 1982 as ride manager of historic 200 mile multi day Capitol to Capitol ride, Western States 50 and original manager of Camp Far West Endurance Rides, Nevada Endurance Driving Association founding member and member and friend of Nevada All State Trail Riders. Beloved friend to many, he changed the lives of many for the better.

Husband to Nadine for over 53 years and father to Wendy, Holly, Shawn Bowling, Tiffany and grandpa to Kaitlyn, Shelby, Brett, Nick, Jack, Ryder Bowling, Levi and great grandpa to Kaitlyn’s three boys and Shelby’s three girls and father in law to Aaron, Shane, Lisa, and Matt and a mentor to many.

He is missed dearly and for any who’d like to remember him you are welcome to attend a celebration of his life on Friday December 13 at 1pm in Newcastle, California.

2024 September's Horses in the Morning Endurance Podcast

HorseRadioNetwork.com - Listen

Poop Week and Endurance: Dung Beetles and The Alchemy of Horses for September 10, 2024 by Poseidon Animal Health – HORSES IN THE MORNING

by Ashley Winch | Sep 10, 2024

We start the show with Poop Week, by Poseidon Animal Health, and a discussion on the importance of Dung Beetles. Then we transition to Endurance with author and Endurance Rider Donna Snyder Smith and her new book “The Alchemy of Horses: A Journey of Self-Healing”. Listen in...

https://www.horseradionetwork.com/2024/09/poop-week-and-endurance-dung-beetles-and-the-alchemy-of-horses-for-september-10-2024-by-poseidon-animal-health-horses-in-the-morning/

Del Black 1933-2024

GreybullStandard.com

March 10, 1933 - Nov. 11, 2024

Marian Adella “Del” Black passed away Nov. 11, 2024, at the age of 91. Del was born at her parents’ home on March 10, 1933. She and her sisters grew up on the family farm along the Greybull River and began their education at the Gould School.

Shortly after graduating from Basin High School in 1951, Del married Tom Black. They enjoyed more than 72 years of adventures together.

There was nothing Del enjoyed more than the great outdoors! She found beauty in the badlands, the desert, and the Big Horn Mountains. Tom and Del made memories and friends wherever they traveled. For some years they made a home near Sells, Ariz., and enjoyed exploring the land and culture of the Tohono O’odham Nation.

Del was a homemaker, but true to her roots, she worked seasonal agricultural jobs including weighing barley for Coors, driving beet truck, working at the dairy and delivering fertilizer. She loved playing cards, decorating her home inside and out and spending time with friends. She was an accomplished endurance horse rider, earning standings in the Mountain Region Endurance Program.

Del was preceded in death by her husband, Tom Black; parents, Victor and Ada Boelens; sister, Dolores Dace; and infant daughter, Lori Black.

Del is survived by daughters, Donna (Mike) Steckel of Taylor, Neb., Jeri (Joel) Farber of Thermopolis, and Wendy (Ross) Henderson of Greybull; sisters Carolyn Walton of Greybull and Vicki (Randy) Smith of Littleton, Colo.; six grandchildren and four great grandchildren with one more due in January.

Del was loved by many. We will miss her grace and class. In lieu of flowers please share a story of your time with Tom and Del. A celebration of their lives will be planned for next year. Donations in memory of Del Black may be directed to Stillwater Hospice of Northern Wyoming, 210 North Bent Street, Powell, WY 82435.