Tevis Ride Director's Message May 2015

Teviscup.org

The 60th anniversary of the running of the Tevis Cup ride is fast approaching. To help make this a year to remember, the ride committee is examining every aspect of past rides to ensure that this is a remarkable, commemorative year for all the right reasons.

Special 60th anniversary buckles have been designed and ordered, as well as 1000 mile and 2000 mile “decade” buckles and the first place buckle. When I look at the names of our riders on our starting list, it is clear that specific groups of riders with different goals emerge. There are several who are prepared and capable of finishing first and winning the Tevis Cup. Then there are the ones who dream of finishing in the top ten and earn the opportunity to show for the Haggin Cup with the ultimate dream of winning the Cup. The junior riders, under the age of eighteen, attack the trail and ride to earn the right to have their names engraved on the Scripts Cup. The one group that is as important as any other is the group trying to finish for their first buckles or even to add to their buckles.

Every decision made by the Ride Committee considers the needs and concerns all of these groups whenever we consider adopting any type of change to the ride. One of the changes we have accepted this year was a proposed rule revision put forth from the Rules Committee. Please read and understand ALL the rules before you start the ride. The Cup Committee, Ride Management and the ride veterinarians all strive to enforce the rules in a fair and equitable manner to protect the integrity of the competition. There are some updates to rules 4 and 5 to clarify inhumane treatment and veterinary inspection (timelines and procedures) to protect the welfare of the horse.

Caterers will provide a Friday evening dinner at Robie Park starting at 6 pm for $15 and the Sunday awards banquet at the Auburn Fairgrounds, also for $15. As a part of their entry, the riders will be provided with a Sunday banquet ticket in the rider packet when they check in. The trail used this year uses RD. 43 as it leaves Robinson Flat and then the traditional trail on to Auburn. In Auburn riders will have a 40 minute period to meet criteria at the final vet check in McCann Stadium after he or she passes under the official finish line banner in McCann Stadium.

There will again be a blood draw at Robinson Flat, the results of which could trigger a recheck with the veterinarian before you leave the check. The blood draw will take place between the pulse check and the Vet exam. Riders and vets will not know the specifics of the blood work; they will just be made aware that the results were abnormal and a discussion will take place between rider and veterinarian about use of caution in the ride strategy. One of the missions of WSTF is improving the science behind endurance horses during competition, and we hope this ongoing study takes us further down that path. Individual results are emailed after the ride to the rider and owner if so requested.

WSTF provides an educational ride on the weekend of July 4th for those who wish to see the trail and/or need miles to qualify for entry. Many seasoned Tevis riders will be mentoring small groups over the trail staging out of the Foresthill mill site. I highly recommend this event for those wanting more information about successfully completing the Tevis ride.

This year there will be film crews shooting footage during the ride and possibly at the Ed Ride as well. Tevis has not had a film crew for the past several years and Kooks entertainment is excited to be filming this year.

The trail is open for training except for the section of the trail that goes through Squaw Valley. This section is under such heavy use at this time of year that it is not safe for horses and riders. Our trail crew schedules well in advance to travel through Squaw to maintain the wilderness trail. Trees fall across the trail almost daily and the joint run/ride trail crew takes them out. If you ride the trail and come across any downed trees or trail hazards, please make note of the location and details and notify us. Please be as accurate about the location and the size of the tree as possible, so the crew led by Elke Reimer can get to it with the correct equipment and personnel to handle the work. Please email this info to Steve Hallmark at stevehallmark58@gmail.com, and he will forward it on to the correct people. This dedicated crew goes through chainsaw certification, wilderness first aid, and CPR training so they can hike in--leather boots and hardhats hauling heavy equipment to the site--to keep the trail open for riders and runners all year long.

I have reports that there is water available on the trail for training. During the ride additional water will again be provided at places like Millers Defeat, Dusty Corners, El Dorado Creek, Fords Bar, Baltimore Mine and Cal 2 as well as other spots. All this added water along the way is the result of a concentrated effort by the Ride Committee to help you and your horse get to the finish line and look good when you get there. Please do not use these locations to scoop your horse, as they do not get refilled during the ride.

From all of us at WSTF, happy training, and we will see you on the trail.

Chuck Stalley
2015 Ride Director

Omega Fields Spokesperson, Beverly Gray Interviewed on Horsemanship Radio, Episode 40

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 18, 2015
 
Newton, Wisconsin – Omega Fields’ spokesperson, Beverly Gray, Endurance Riding legend, (https://www.omegafields.com/spokespeople-beverly/) was part of Horsemanship Radio Episode 40 that streamed this past Friday, May 15, 2015. She talked about how she got into endurance riding, the horses she has had throughout her career, and how she cares for and what she feeds her endurance horses.

Beverly has been a professional endurance rider for over 2 decades, has received many awards from her rides and how she cares for her horses. She has logged over 18,500 competition miles, completed 350 races and has 100 wins.

Learn more about Beverly’s favorite Omega Fields products that she uses each day – Mega Omega for herself (https://www.omegafields.com/people-products/mega-omegar.html) and for her horses – Omega Grande (https://www.omegafields.com/equine-products/omega-grande.html) , Omega SureGut (https://www.omegafields.com/equine-products/omega-suregut.html) and Omega Nibblers (https://www.omegafields.com/equine-products/omega-nibblersr.html).

You can listen to Episode 40 and all of Horsemanship Radio episodes on Omega Fields website by clicking on the Horsemanship Radio icon in the footer of the site (https://www.omegafields.com/)  or use the direct link (http://www.horsemanshipradio.com/2015/05/14/horsemanship-radio-episode-40-by-index-fund-advisors-ifa-com-endurance-legend-beverly-gray-and-horseman-marty-irby/#t=0:02.156/). 

Horsemanship Radio is an online radio show (podcast) dedicated to the exploration of good horsemanship throughout the world. Horsemanship Radio is hosted by Debbie Loucks, daughter of pioneer natural horseman, Monty Roberts.  Horsemanship Radio is aired on the 15th and 30th of each month and is downloaded over 10,000 times each month. Omega Fields, Inc. is one of the sponsors of the Horsemanship Radio program (www.horsemanshipradio.com) featured on Horses In the Morning radio podcast (www.horsesinthemorning.com). 

About Omega Fields

Omega Fields® is recognized as a minority-owned business. Its mission is to offer the finest quality, most nutritious products at fair prices, and to provide outstanding customer service. Omega Fields wants its customers to have exceptional experiences with their products, staff, websites and retailers.
 
Omega Fields is the first manufacturer in the animal health industry to use human-grade, non-GMO stabilized ground flaxseed, rich in fiber and antioxidants, and containing the optimum ratio of the full spectrum of Omega 3, 6, and 9 Fatty Acids for equine, canine, poultry and human nutrition. The innovative use of flaxseed milled with a unique stabilization technology ensures long shelf life and superior quality for Omega Fields’ products.
 
Contact: Allison Kuhl _ Director of Business Development, Omega Fields

Contact Information:
Allison Kuhl
Director of Business Development
Omega Fields, Inc.
920-550-4061, ext. 119

Pair passing endurance test

Pentictonwesternnews.com - Full Article

by Emanuel Sequeira - Penticton Western News
posted May 12, 2015 at 3:00 PM

The world of endurance horse riding has opened Grace Logie’s eyes to something she never imagined.

“My first ride was Iron Horse (in Summerland) in 2012 and since that ride I’ve been hooked,” said Logie. “I love the amazing places and landscapes. I would never have seen if I did not endurance ride, and the ride sites are always stunning. The endurance community is very friendly and welcoming, and everyone is always smiling and laughing.”

The 15-year-old started endurance riding, which is about conditioning and knowing the horse, three years ago when Julius Bloomfield offered to let her exercise his horses and do trail rides. She fell in love...

Read more here:
http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/sports/303503701.html

Sleeper and Russell Earn Wins at Biltmore Challenge Selection Trial

USEFNetwork.com

RELEASE: May 12, 2015
AUTHOR/ADMINISTRATOR: USEF Communications Department

Asheville, N.C. – The Biltmore Challenge, held May 1-2 at the historic Biltmore Estate, played host to a Selection Trial for the 2015 FEI Pan-American Endurance Championship for Seniors & Young Riders and the 2015 FEI World Endurance Championship for Young Riders & Juniors. Athletes aiming to compete at these championships eyed top performances in the CEI2* and CEIYJ2* held on May 1.

Meg Sleeper (Frenchtown, N.J.) claimed top honors in the CEI2* 120km race with her own Syrocco Cadence. She and the 12-year-old Arabian mare finished with a time of 7:22:00, averaging 16.3 km/h. Melody Blittersdorf (Hartland, Vt.) rode her 15-year-old Arabian gelding, Synthetic, to a second-place finish with a time of 7:41:00, with an average speed of 15.6 km/h. Finishing in third place were Marbeth Kollath (Clyde, N.C.) and Poete, Holly Corcoran’s eight-year-old Arabian gelding, with a time of 7:54:00 and average speed of 15.2 km/h.

In the CEIYJ2* 120km race, the top three combinations finished the race within seconds of each other, averaging the same speed of 15.3 km/h. Kelsey Russell (Williston, Fla.) and My Wild Irish Gold, Valerie Kanavy’s 12-year-old Arabian mare, earned the win with a time of 7:50:01. Hannah Weightman (Shamong, N.J.) rode Kanavy’s 10-year-old Arabian gelding, Just Gold, to second place, finishing with a time of 7:50:02. Rounding out the top three, Ragan Kelly (Waco, Texas) and Colin for Gold, Kanavy’s nine-year-old Arabian gelding, crossed the finish line with a time of 7:50:03.

Over the Fence: A Young Endurance Champ

Horsechannel.com - Full Article

Meet the teenage winner of the Old Dominion Endurance Ride.

By Kitson Jazynka | Wednesday, May 6, 2015

The Kentucky Derby is an exciting two minutes, but what about a race that lasts 100 miles and a teenage girl and her humble horse win it all, finishing in less than 14 hours?

Over the winter, I had a great chat with Bryna Stevenson, a teenaged endurance champ who won the Old Dominion Endurance Ride (they don’t call it a race) which winds up and down the Blue Ridge Mountains in my beloved home state of Virginia.

An edited version of our chat about her love of endurance riding, her horses, and how she managed to win the Old Dominion despite having to ride in the dark, alone with her horse on a rocky mountainside is spread out over a couple of glossy pages in the current issue of Young Rider magazine (May/June 2015).

Bryna got into endurance riding thanks to her parents – her dad, a bicyclist – encouraged her to go for high-level competition. Her mom shared her love of horses and got Bryna started riding as a little girl. She and her mom started endurance riding together when Bryna was eight...

Read more here:
http://www.horsechannel.com/over-the-fence-blog/2015/0506-a-young-endurance-champ.aspx

2015 Dream of Riding Tevis Entry Chosen

Horsereporter.com - Full Article

May 5, 2015
by Pamela Burton

Chantelle Du Plessis gets a ticket to ride in the Tevis Trail 2015

4 May 2015, California, USA – Dreaming of Tevis Essay Contest ~ We are pleased to announce the winner of the 2015 Dreaming of Tevis Essay Contest. First, we would like to acknowledge and thank all of the young riders who took the time to submit entries. Every entry received was of the highest quality and most important, written from the heart. It is clear that there is so much love and passion for the sport- keep your dreams alive!

This year’s winner is Chantelle Du Plessis...

Read more here:
http://www.horsereporter.com/2015/05/05/2015-dream-of-riding-tevis-entry-chosen/

Long-distance rider stops in Sonoita on way to Mexico

Nogalesinternational.com - Full Article

Posted: Wednesday, April 29, 2015
By Marion Vendituoli
For the Bulletin

One of the horse trailers parked recently at the Sonoita Fairgrounds didn’t pull in loaded with racehorses for the meet next week. While the barn area was buzzing with jockeys, trainers and beautifully groomed thoroughbreds and quarter horses, the grassy area that was the temporary home for Nancy and Len Crow held two Arabian horses that pastor Len Crow had been riding as part of his mission to travel from Deadhorse, Alaska to Guadalajara, Mexico, a journey of 6,790 miles.

This is the sixth ride that Crow has participated in to raise money and awareness for orphans in developing countries. The couple is involved in fundraising for five orphanages in five countries: the Philippines, Guatemala, India, Mexico and Cambodia. The Crows established and run the Cambodian orphanage themselves, and plan to travel to Cambodia after Pastor Crow finishes his ride.

Crow, who is pastor of the North Country Baptist Church in Ontario, Canada, is riding this time to help fund the Annabel de Vallejo Orphanage in Jalisco, Mexico. He began the ride last June in Deadhorse, where it was still snowing, and travelled through the Yukon and British Columbia into the United States.

Richard and Debby Howell of Montana joined the Crows there and help Nancy Crow as part of the support team, driving the trailer and campers to meet Crow each evening. He covers approximately 25 miles each day...

Read more here:
http://www.nogalesinternational.com/news/long-distance-rider-stops-in-sonoita-on-way-to-mexico/article_28ec02a6-ee86-11e4-a1b2-3bf8197701a3.html

Take Action: Ask Your Senators to Support S. 1110, the "Forest Trails" Bill

May 2 2015

On Wednesday, April 29th, the BCHA National Forest "trails bill" was introduced in bipartisan fashion in the U.S. Senate by Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO) and Michael Enzi (R-WY). 

 
Senate Bill 1110 (S.1110), the National Forest System Trails Stewardship Act, is a companion bill to one BCHA announced in February that is currently before the House of Representatives (H.R. 845). The language of both bills is identical and would promote volunteerism in the service of our national forest trails.
 
It's great news that the Forest Trails bill has the interest of leaders in both the House and Senate. And why not? Trails and stewardship represent bipartisan issues with no losers--only winners. Trails are just as American as baseball and apple pie.
 
BCHA strongly supports S.1110 and H.R. 845.
 
You can click here to read the text of the Senate bill as introduced.
 
Like H.R. 845, the bill was initially promoted by BCHA and our partners, The Wilderness Society and American Horse Council. Today, the bill enjoys widespread support among the national trails community, including national organizations representing hikers, climbers, mountain bikers, motorcyclists and snowmobile riders.
Form more information on this national partnership, click here.

 
If enacted as currently written, H.R. 845 and S.1110 would:
• Direct the U.S. Forest Service to develop a strategy to more effectively utilize volunteers and partners to assist in maintaining national forest trails;
• Provide outfitters and guides the ability to pay permit fees in trail maintenance activities instead of dollars;
• Address the liability issue that hampers volunteer and partner trail maintenance activity in some national forests; and
• Prioritize specific areas for trail maintenance within national forests.
 
Take Action!
Please call or write your senators to express support for S. 1110. 
 
Go to this website to find contact information for your senators. In your own words, tell them why you support Senate Bill 1110, the National Forest System Trails Stewardship Act. Tell them of your passion for, and commitment to, keeping national forest trails open and enjoyed by horsemen and others. Lastly, please ask them to consider co-sponsoring S.1110
 
If you are a resident of Wyoming or Colorado, please include in your message a heartfelt "Thank You!" to Senators Enzi and Bennet, respectively, for introducing S.1110 on behalf of the Back Country Horsemen.
 
Feel free to share copies of your letters with BCHA's Advisor for Public Lands & Recreation, including any response you receive from your senators
 
Thank you! Please call or send letters today to your senators in support of S.1110.
 
Donald Saner, Chairman
Back Country Horsemen of America

2015 Time to Ride Challenge Includes Movie Screening Opportunity

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
Contact: Christie Schulte - info@timetoride.com 

Georgetown, Texas, April 30, 2015 – TIME TO RIDE, an initiative of the American Horse Council's Marketing Alliance, whose mission is to connect families to horseback riding and other activities in their local area, is proud to announce that the 2015 “Time to Ride Challenge” will give participants a unique opportunity to engage the public by hosting a movie screening event featuring the family drama SPIRIT RIDERS.



Spirit Riders is a DOVE FOUNDATION endorsed Family Film depicting a budding bond of trust built between two outcasts, An endearing former race horse, Blaze, and a troubled teen, Kacie (Allie DeBerry of Disney’s Ant Farm), both struggling with tragedy, weave a heartfelt friendship that helps both of them to overcome their past.  Shot on location in Texas by local Filmmakers, EDGEN FILMS as part of their FAMILY FILMS FOR A CAUSE SERIES, Spirit Riders was directed by Brian T. Jaynes. The cast includes Lance Henriksen, C Thomas Howell, and Olivia Osteen. The film was cast by Karen Hallford of Casting Works, LA and GLOBAL 3 MEDIA will release the picture domestically in partnership with ENTERTAINMENT ONE. The film will be available exclusively at Walmart stores starting May 26, 2015 with widespread DVD and VOD availability following in June.


The backdrop of Spirit Riders takes place on an equine therapy ranch. The film’s premiere screening event, hosted by the Georgetown Film Society on May 9th in Georgetown, Texas, will focus on the horse-human bond, and kick off what Time to Ride and the filmmakers hope is the first of many screenings hosted throughout the country that will educate and inspire many to get on a horse. Lead actress and popular teen star Allie DeBerry will lend support via social media to share her own amazing experience connecting with horses throughout filming.



Hosts registered for the Time to Ride Challenge will have a unique opportunity to host a local screening of the film, an ideal way to connect with local families interested in horses and invite them to further hands-on experiences. Time to Ride and Global 3 Media will be supporting participants' screening efforts with varying levels of participation available that include everything from a simple movie screening to special appearances from cast members.  There will also be a national sweepstakes challenge and numerous opportunities to win movie memorabilia, autographed photos, a $500 gift certificate from Dover Saddlery, a $500 Gift certificate from Smith Brothers to be applied to the purchase of a saddle, riding apparel, toys and much more via the SPIRIT RIDERS FACEBOOK PAGE. Prizes are provided by members of the American Horse Council’s Marketing Alliance.



To host a movie screening or to get more information about the Time to Ride Challenge please visit: www.timetoride.com . 



For more information on the Film and to find a local screening near you: www.spiritridersthemovie.com


The American Horse Council’s Marketing Alliance



Time to Ride is an initiative of the American Horse Council’s marketing alliance, formed to connect people with horses. It is designed to encourage horse-interested consumers to enjoy the benefits of horse activities. The AHC marketing alliance is made up of the following organizations: the American Association of Equine Practitioners, Active Interest Media, the American Quarter Horse Association, Dover Saddlery, Farnam, Merck, Merial, Purina Animal Nutrition LLC, Platinum Performance, SmartPak, United States Equestrian Federation, and Zoetis. Program Partners are Absorbine, the American Paint Horse Association, Morris Media Network Equine Group, the National Cutting Horse Association, the National Reining Horse Association, Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital, and the Texas A&M University Equine Initiative.

 


About the American Horse Council



The American Horse Council is a non-profit organization that includes all segments of the horse industry. While its primary mission is to represent the industry before Congress and the federal regulatory agencies in Washington, DC, it also undertakes national initiatives for the horse industry. Time to Ride, the AHC’s marketing alliance to connect horses and people, is such an effort. The American Horse Council hopes that Time to Ride will encourage people and businesses to participate in the industry, enjoy our horses, and support our equine activities and events. The AHC believes a healthy horse industry contributes to the health of Americans and America in many ways.

Back Country Horsemen of Washington Partners on Pacific Crest Trail Reconstruction

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 30, 2015
 
By Sarah Wynne Jackson
 
Back Country Horsemen of America highly values our wild lands and our right to enjoy them by horseback. Protecting the wilderness from unnecessary damage is imperative to keeping it pristine. But that creates unique challenges that can prevent proper maintenance of trails, bridges, shelters, and other amenities that allow us to recreate there.
 
US Forest Service wilderness regulations prohibit the use of motorized or wheeled equipment, which can cause extensive damage even when operated with care. The only way to access these remote places with the tools and supplies necessary for making repairs is the same way our ancestors traveled… on the back of a saddle horse, leading a string of pack horses and mules.
 
Supporting Others’ Efforts
 
Back Country Horsemen of Washington collaborates and partners with other trail advocacy orga­nizations to manage and maintain some of the most remote regions in Washing­ton’s mountains. The Lewis County Chapter recently provided pack stock support to the US Forest Service and Pacific Crest Trail Association (PCTA) for a month-long project on the Pacific Crest Trail, a 2,550-mile trail corridor from Mexico to Canada. Or­ganized by PCTA, this project re­built a section of the trail across Packwood Glacier basin in the Goat Rocks Wilderness of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, where motorized and wheeled equipment is prohibited.
 
Proper Preparation
 
Prior to packing the trail crews, their equipment, and supplies to the 7,000-foot elevation worksite, it was necessary for everyone’s safety to repair a bridge over Goat Creek on Snowgrass Trail, a major feeder trail. Rotten decking was replaced to support horses carrying workers and supplies. In prepa­ration for the bridge repair, Lewis County Chapter BCH volunteers manufac­tured 50 hand-hewn cedar planks. Bal­anced on each side of a pack animal, two planks at a time were carried two miles to the worksite. USFS Cowlitz Val­ley Ranger District personnel removed the old decking, nailed down the new bridge planks, and cleared winter blowdowns from the trail to the PCTA base camp.
 
Packin’ In
 
Chapter packers hauled supplies and tools from Berrypatch Trailhead seven miles to the base camp located at the remnants of Dana Yelverton Shel­ter on the slopes of Old Snowy Mountain. Once the seven pack stock were fitted with the 800 pounds of cargo in balanced loads, the caravan started up the trail to the worksite, led by the trail crew vanguard who advised approaching hikers of the oncoming pack string.
 
On a clear, warm day the procession was treated to the splendors of Snowgrass Flats, a 10-acre subalpine meadow, before crossing several snowfields to reach the alpine campsite which boasted a stunning view of three dormant volcanoes. A patriotic mix of red, white, and blue wildflowers ornamented the rugged, mountainous setting.
 
Leave No Trace
 
After a weeklong stay, the trail crew was ready to descend the moun­tain with three pack stock to haul out their gear. Lewis County Chapter BCH packers re­turned to base camp three times with food supplies for subsequent workers. The graciously pleasant weather cooled, challenging volunteers and stock with wind-driven sleet, dense fog, and heavy rain that washed out water crossings. Even so, the volunteers persisted and completed the job.
 
This project is a good ex­ample of the tasks that can be accomplished when different user groups work together. Back Country Horsemen of America units across the country partner frequently with trail advocacy organizations to achieve the common goal of keeping trails open for the public while preventing damage to those wild lands we love.
 
About Back Country Horsemen of America
 
BCHA is a non-profit corporation made up of state organizations, chapters/units, affiliates, and at-large members. Their efforts have brought about positive changes regarding the use of horses and stock in wilderness and public lands.
 
If you want to know more about Back Country Horsemen of America or become a member, visit their website: www.bcha.org;  call 888-893-5161; or write PO Box 1367, Graham, WA 98338-1367. The future of horse use on public lands is in our hands!

Peg Greiwe, BCHA
peg@bcha.org
1-888-893-5161

The American Endurance Ride Conference Inspires with ‘Discover Endurance Riding’ Booklet

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 

The American Endurance Ride Conference Inspires with ‘Discover Endurance Riding’ Booklet


Available Now, Free of Charge
 
AUBURN, California – May 1, 2015 – Now those interested in the sport of endurance riding can learn more about the sport through an inspiring collection of thoughtful articles and genuine first-person accounts written by riders immersed in the Endurance world. The American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) has issued a new 16-page booklet titled Discover Endurance Riding, which is available free upon request, starting today. Curated by the editor of Endurance News and illustrated with beautiful photography, the articles are evocative of each individual author’s experiences – some are heartwarming, some will make you laugh, tear up or catch your breath with excitement, and they all have one thing in common – they’ll make you want to try your hand at endurance riding.
 
The articles in Discover Endurance Riding share a genuine tone, and span a variety of topics including how to get started in the sport, what to expect at your first ride and why endurance is an equestrian sport for everyone. There are uplifting pieces like ‘Friends and Ride Partners’ penned by 14-year old Ainsley Suskey, who along with her 76-year old mentor, Maxine Bernsdorf, set out together to beat the Midwest Region limited distance mileage record in 2014. Their epic journey truly demonstrates that endurance riding spans generations and knows no age limits in humans or in horses. Another piece chronicles one AERC member’s humbling experience in repeated attempts to complete the daunting Western States Trail Ride, or Tevis Cup, 100-mile ride in Northern California.  And yet another tells the story of a woman who happened into endurance riding accidentally and then fell in love with a sport that ultimately changed her life.
 
“The idea for creating this booklet was to make people read it and think, this sounds like something I want to do,” said Troy Smith, Endurance News editor. The endurance riding community is a welcoming one and they live by the mantra ‘endurance is for everyone’ – this booklet serves to reinforce that notion and to invite all who are interested to learn more now. 
 
Request a Copy of the Introduction to Endurance Booklet

To request a copy of the free Discover Endurance Riding booklet email the AERC national office at aerc@foothill.net, or phone 866-271-2372.
 
About the AERC

In addition to promoting the sport of endurance riding, the AERC encourages the use, protection, and development of equestrian trails, especially those with historic significance. Many special events of four to six consecutive days take place over historic trails, such as the Pony Express Trail, the Outlaw Trail, the Chief Joseph Trail, and the Lewis and Clark Trail. The founding ride of endurance riding, the Western States Trail Ride or Tevis Cup, covers 100 miles of the famous Western States and Immigrant Trails over the Sierra Nevada Mountains. These rides promote awareness of the importance of trail preservation for future generations and foster an appreciation of our American heritage.

The American Endurance Ride Conference, established in 1972, is headquartered in Auburn, California, “The Endurance Capital of the World.” For more information please visit us at www.aerc.org.

Media Contact:
Candace FitzGerald

Dobbin Group

candace@dobbin-group.com
603-738-2788

NPS: Big South Fork and three horse clubs awarded centennial grant

WBIR.com - Full Article

WBIR Staff, WBIR 11:02 a.m. EDT April 27, 2015

(WBIR) The National Parks Service awarded Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, along with three horse clubs, as the joint-recipients of a restoration grant.

The grant, one of many Centennial Challenge Grants, will install better road access to Appaloosa Field, which is one of only two fields in the entire park where large groups are allowed to camp or hold special events.

Big South Fork (BSF) will work with three horse clubs: Knoxville Arabian Horse Club, American Endurance Ride Conference and Southern Endurance Riders Association, to make the improvements...

Read more here:
http://www.wbir.com/story/news/2015/04/27/big-south-fork-national-parks-service-centennial-grant-appaloosa-field/26449721/

Four-Star Eventer Hilda Donahue is Climbing the Ranks in Endurance

Eventingnation.com - Full Article

By Leslie Threlkeld on Apr 11, 2015

Four-star event rider Hilda Donahue has her sights set on the World Equestrian Games, but not in eventing. Instead of galloping four miles over fences, she wants to trot 100 miles in the endurance competition.

Hilda got her start competing in endurance because her husband and sisters-in-law are avid endurance riders. She joined her family on her first ride one year ago and hasn’t looked back. In fact, she has finished in the top ten in all four FEI rides she’s completed so far and is currently fifth on the FEI World rankings.

“I took to it like a fish to water,” Hilda said. “I really became fascinated and, always wanting to learn more, I just became intrigued by how endurance people condition. I really believe that we can draw from these other sports.”
As an eventer, Hilda was short listed for the Irish World Equestrian Games team in 2002 and rode in the World Cup final at Pau the same year. She’s competed in all but two of the world’s four-star events (missing Luhmühlen and Badminton), and is a familiar face in Area III, always sporting a sun hat and a friendly smile.

“I’m low on eventing horse power at the moment. I’ve been competing students’ horses and sales horses at lower levels,” Hilda said. “I’m just adding on. Anyone who knows me knows I’m a goal oriented overachiever. I got in to the sport [of endurance] due to family connection and fascination and the opportunity to learn more.”

So adding to her list of goals, which includes competing at Grand Prix dressage (she’s currently at Prix St. George) and completing the two four-stars missing from her eventing record, Hilda wants to ride at the prestigious 100-mile Tevis Cup this August and eventually qualify to ride for Ireland in endurance at the 2016 World Equestrian Games.

“I don’t feel too impressed with myself or too confident saying that. I need to have goals, and the only failure is not trying...”

Read more here:
http://eventingnation.com/home/four-star-eventer-hilda-donahue-is-climbing-the-ranks-in-endurance/#.VTv_sJqSZHo.facebook

Arabians Predominate U.S. Endurance in 2014

April 24 2015

As might be expected, Arabians and part-Arabians were by far the largest percentage of breeds competing in US endurance riding in 2014.

Pure-bred Arabians made up 61.94%, while half-Arabians and Arabian crosses were 16.65% of the total.

The Mustang is the second-most pure breed in the sport, making up 1.74%.

Exhibiting the variance of mounts in endurance, one might run into some rare breeds on the trails, including Colorado Ranger, Mangalarga Marchador, Blazer, Florida Cracker Horse, Gypsy Vanner, McCurdy Plantation Horse, Moyle, Oldenburg, and Spotted Mountain Horse.

The full list can be seen here:
http://www.endurance.net/misc/2014AERCBreedsCompeting.pdf

Thanks to Mike Maul for compiling and sharing it!

Local team sweeps American River Classic

Theunion.com - Full Article

Ann Marie Barnett and her steed MM Woodrow won the 41st running of the American River Classic Endurance Ride Saturday.

In addition to having the fastest overall time, the pair won Best Condition accolades, the Barceleau Cup for being the first horse that completes the 50 mile ride in the Pioneer Division and demonstrating the “willingness and ability to go on,” and who carried a minimum of 165 pounds with tack.

Second place honors went to Brandon Reed aboard Foxy and third to Kamal Shehadeh and Java, both of Granite Bay.

The history of the American River Classic (formerly the American River Ride) is almost synonymous with the history of American Endurance Ride Conference, and the existence of what today is called the modern form of endurance riding. Diane Marquard of Cool started the ride in 1972...

Read more here:
http://www.theunion.com/news/sports/16032815-113/local-team-sweeps-american-river-classic

Why would I want to do a 100 miler?

Redmondequine.com Blog - Full Story

by Heather Reynolds
April 21 2015

There is a certain magic that happens between horse and rider when it comes time to move up to preparing for and executing their first 100 mile ride.

The training hours consume the rider and all thoughts throughout the day drift to their mount. Some days it’s a euphoric dreamlike state, recalling the most recent accomplishment that makes the rider feel that the goal is within reach. Other days it’s more of a neurotic, paranoia where the rider frets over the littlest of things trying to find a reason for some negative turn of events with their horse.

After the rider picks the ride that will be THE one, the scheduling and training becomes very similar to the above, sometimes it will be flawless and beautiful, other times it will be tortuous (Too hot, too cold, too rainy, too dark, lame horse, pulled shoe, farrier can’t come, etc.). When it’s a good day there’s nothing better, when it’s a bad day you feel like you’re failing and wonder why you spend all of your efforts chasing this dream...

Read more here:
http://www.redmondequine.com/100-miler-heather-reynolds/

Apply For a USEF High School Scholarship Today

USEFNetwork.com

RELEASE: April 20, 2015
AUTHOR/ADMINISTRATOR: USEF Communications Department

Applications are now being accepted for a new scholarship available for current high school seniors who will be continuing their equestrian career during college. The USEF High School Scholarship will provide a $1,000 grant to one graduating high school senior who will be pursing equestrian either through an equestrian related degree or on an intercollegiate equestrian team. Applicants must be active members of USEF and submit an essay to the USEF office by July 1 that answers the following questions:

1) Explain how the sport of equestrian has helped you reach your goals so far.
2) Explain how you plan to continue your involvement in equestrian sport during college.
3) Explain your future career goals after college.

Click here https://www.usef.org/documents/HighSchoolAthlete/HighSchoolScholarship_Application.pdf to apply.

Please email tschroeder@usef.org for more information about this scholarship.

AHA Announces May, 2015, ‘Celebration of the Arabian Horse Month’

USEFNetwork.com

RELEASE: April 20, 2015
AUTHOR/ADMINISTRATOR: Arabian Horse Association

Aurora, Colo. - The Arabian Horse Association (AHA) is excited to announce that they are officially naming May, 2015, 'Celebration of the Arabian Horse Month.' This is a time for Arabian horse enthusiasts to share in their communities the wonderful, intelligent and beautiful Arabian breed.

AHA encourages members, clubs and regions to host at least one outreach event during the month of May in their area. Designed as a grassroots marketing initiative, Arabian Horse Month encourages local members and clubs, who have the best access to people in their area, to reach out to all walks of life and introduce them to the magic of the Arabian horse.

To do this, AHA has created an outreach toolkit full of wonderful ideas and initiatives that clubs and regions have done in previous years or are planning to do this year that can be considered outreach and marketing initiatives for the Arabian breed. These include ideas and activities such as participating in a youth therapy program, an after school program that barns can do, events that members can host at a show, holiday ideas, and so much more!

The outreach toolkit also includes information on how to give a successful TAIL tour, becoming a Discovery Farm, social media tips and ideas for generating new membership! During May, AHA will support member’s outreach initiatives by providing promotional material (at just the cost of shipping) for giving out for FREE at the event.

Endurance, distance riders sponsor introductory clinic

Minotdailynews.com - Full Article

April 15, 2015
By JOHN BECHTEL - Freelance Writer (jbechtel@thenewvoltaire.com) , Minot Daily News

Jutta Schmidt, Minot resident and 32-year veteran healthcare worker at Trinity Hospital, is leading a clinic April 25 to introduce North Dakotans to the sport of endurance horseback riding. Even though this sport is at least 50 years old in the U.S., Schmidt says it is relatively unknown in North Dakota. She, and an avid group of other practitioners, mostly women, intend to change that.

Endurance riding as a sport is somewhere between trail riding and the Kentucky Derby. There is competition to win each race, but for most, endurance horseback competitions are more akin to a marathon race for humans, where anyone who participates and finishes has a sense of accomplishment and bragging rights. With endurance horseback riding, the emphasis is on the horse, not the rider. Although there are awards and prizes, their mantra is "to finish is to win." These events begin with distances of 25-30 miles and increase to 100 miles and more. Your horse has to be fit to continue at all times, including on the other side of the finish line.

There are "pit stops" along the trail, and the "pit crews" are licensed veterinarians who are also certified as control judges by the AERC (American Endurance Ride Conference) out of Auburn, Calif., the national regulating body that sanctions the rides and imposes the rules. Most of the race participants have migrated from other horseback disciplines, from pleasure trail riding to showing horses to dressage (an equestrian sport often referred to as horse ballet, where the show horse seems to respond effortlessly to the signals of a seemingly effortless rider). If pleasurable trail riding is a bachelor's degree in horsemanship, endurance riding is a master's degree...

Read more here:
http://www.minotdailynews.com/page/content.detail/id/620132/Endurance--distance-riders-sponsor-introductory-clinic.html?nav=5010

April's Endurance Day on Horses In The Morning with Karen Chaton

Horsesinthemorning.com - Listen!

April 14 2015

Endurance Day with Karen Chaton opens with an interesting study on the affect on hydration when feeding to horses.  Nicole Chappell stops by to talk about her 2400 miles of adventures with Golden Knight, the one eyed endurance wonder horse and Dr. Kerr explains EDPP.  Listen in...

http://www.horsesinthemorning.com/hitm-for-04-14-2015-endurance-day-with-karen-chaton-pony-express-fun-g-the-wonder-horse-edpp-defined-with-dr-kerr/

Over 400 Horse Industry Professionals Already Registered for Time to Ride Challenge

Usefnetwork.com

RELEASE: April 13, 2015
AUTHOR/ADMINISTRATOR: American Horse Council

Washington, D.C. - The Time to Ride Challenge, offering $100,000 in cash and prizes, has signed up over 400 participants since opening for registration March 1st. Motivated by a desire to grow their businesses while reinvigorating the horse industry, providers have signed on to host beginnerfriendly events between May 30-September 30. The top 10 hosts in three divisions that reach the most newcomers will win cash prizes up to $10,000.

As of April 10th, 403 Hosts from 43 states have registered. They represent stables, instructors, camps, dude ranches, therapeutic riding programs, businesses, veterinarians, rescues, and more.

The Challenge encourages Hosts to provide a variety of fun, beginner-friendly horse experiences. In 2014, the most popular activity offered by Hosts was meeting/petting a horse (84%), followed by riding, grooming, and educational activities. Golden Ridge Stables of Lakeville, MN found huge success with their event on National Night Out, “a well known national event held the first Tuesday in August encouraging neighbors to get to know each other. We offered pony rides on our school horses, a hay ride shuttle to and from a nearby neighborhood, hands-on grooming demonstrations, and fun games like learning to rope, egg and spoon on foot, horseshoes and musical hay bales,” reported owner Ann Hoffman. “This event was a big success for us because it increased our visibility in the community and helped us foster good relations with nearby neighborhoods. We have several new housing developments being built near us so we're trying to capitalize on the building boom by increasing awareness of our lesson program. The goal was to meet new people and we definitely did that!” Hoffman and Golden Ridge Stables were awarded first prize in the “Best Practices” Contest, an additional incentive within the Challenge that rewarded Hosts for sharing their innovative event ideas.

Eighty-one percent of families who attended a 2014 Challenge event were at some point in the process of researching and beginning horse activities, offering a prime opportunity for stables to provide a great first experience and capture new clients. Sixty-eight percent of Hosts saw an immediate positive impact on their business in the form of new contacts and clients, and 94% felt their outreach efforts were well worth the time and effort.

Registration for the Challenge will be open through May 26, 2015. To learn more about the Challenge and other Time to Ride initiatives, please visit www.timetoridechallenge.com or email info@timetoride.com.

Pennsylvania horses win top honors in gaited distance program

NJ.com - Full Article

By Hunterdon County Democrat
on April 10, 2015 at 8:41 AM

Predominio de la Armistad, a Paso Fino, owned by Susan Crawford of York, Pa. was honored by Friends of Sound Horse (FOSH) for the 2014 FOSH Gaited Distance Program.

The FOSH Gaited Distance Program is a Division of the FOSH Gaited Sport Horse that records, recognizes and rewards gaited horses involved in the sports of Competitive Trail Riding, Limited Distance and Endurance Riding. Entrants included the Icelandic Horse, Spotted Saddle Horse, Tennessee Walking Horse, Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse, Single Footing Horse, Missouri Fox Trotting Horse, Paso Fino and Rocky Mountain Horse. The high mileage award winner was a Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse in the Endurance Division...

Read more here:
http://www.nj.com/horsenews/2015/04/pennsylvania_horses_win_top_ho.html

Moab Through the Ears of Four Horses

Horse-canada.com - Full Article

April 9 2015
Desk to Derby Blog

The plane bucked and twisted as I clutched the arm rests, refusing to look out the window at the canyons below. My skin was pale and sticky as I tried my best not to hurl up the Mexican fiesta I’d downed at the Salt Lake City airport. I was on a 20-seater plane headed to Moab and regretting my decision to not just take the few hours to drive myself to the middle of Utah’s desert region.

The ginger-bearded guy next to me smirked. I glanced at the inked sleeves – roses, checkered flags, skulls – that danced across his weathered forearms. He was wearing a faded Jack Daniels tee and I caught a whiff of stale liquor. I clenched the arm rests tighter and tried harder not to hurl.

“Doesn’t look like you’re headed to Moab for the Jeep festival,” he said, eyeing me up and down.

“Nope.”

“Well?”

“I’m going to ride horses,” I said.

It sounds weird, but I hate explaining what I do to people who don’t ‘get’ horses. If I say I’m going to ride a horse they think I’m a jockey, or a cowgirl. It’s even more complicated now if people pry and I have to try to explain to them I’m training to race 1,000 kilometres across Mongolia.

“My ex wife rides horses,” he said, with a hint of disgust. “She loved them horses more than she loved me.”

Thankfully the ghost of his ex-wife dead-ended our conversation and I could focus back on avoiding barfing.

When the plane finally bounced onto the tarmac 20 minutes later, I was the first one down the stairs and on solid ground. Stepping outside the one-room Moab airport was like climbing into one of those hot air hand dryers. The wind was strong and the sun baked cracks in the red earth. A tumbleweed skittered by. In the distance snow capped mountain peaks rose up above the red rock and desolate flatlands littered with sagebrush. The nausea was receding and it was my turn to smirk. In that second, I knew I’d found my training grounds for Mongolia.

For the next five days I’d stay with Christoph Schork and Dian Woodward at Global Endurance Training Center...

Read more here:
http://www.horse-canada.com/desk-to-derby/moab-through-the-ears-of-four-horses/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=moab-through-the-ears-of-four-horses

Virginia's MRNRA Facing Supervisor Closure Order

Change.org petition

The Forest Service intends to implement a “Supervisor Closure Order” for 200 miles of historic trails located in the East End of the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area in southwest Virgina.

The Mount Rogers Trail Advocates' Coalition has initiated a petition to :
1. Eliminate the “Supervisor Closure Order” from the Forest Service plan.
2. Preserve the current 200 miles of historic trails they intend to close in the East End of the MRNRA.

The “Supervisor Closure Order” would result in tickets and fines for citizens riding on any part of the forest not designated as an official trail. "Not only will this action restrict our personal freedoms, it will have a negative impact on the economy at all levels, on the environment, and on the health and wellness of the very citizens that make our country strong," the Coalition says.

To sign the petition, see:
https://www.change.org/p/united-states-forest-service-1-eliminate-the-supervisor-closure-order-from-the-forest-service-plan-2-preserve-the-current-200-miles-of-historic-trails-they-intend-to-close-in-the-east-end-of-the-mrnra?recruiter=66262644&utm_source=share_petition&utm_medium=facebook&utm_campaign=share_facebook_responsive&utm_term=mob-xs-share_petition-custom_msg

Time to Ride Challenge returns in 2015 with $100,000 cash and prizes

By Hunterdon County Democrat
April 07

The Time to Ride Challenge returns in 2015 as a grassroots campaign to grow the horse industry by introducing new enthusiasts to horse activities. The Challenge, taking place May 30 to Sept. 30, offers a unique opportunity for horse professionals to grow their business while competing for $100,000 in cash and prizes. In 2014, its inaugural year, the Challenge provided more than 25,000 people with first-time horse experiences through 702 beginner-friendly Time to Ride Hosts in 49 states.

Registration for the Challenge at www.timetoridechallenge.com and is open to stables, clubs, veterinarians, feed stores, businesses, and organizations dedicated to welcoming newcomers to horse activities. "Hosts" are organized into Small, Medium, and Large divisions and are encouraged to be creative in providing fun, safe, and educational horse events that encourage attendees to become further involved in horse activities.

The Hosts who provide the greatest number of newcomers an introductory horse experience, as calculated by contact information collected, will win awards. A post-Challenge survey in 2014 found that 92% of the 25,281 newcomers who attended a Time to Ride event said they wanted to participate in more horse activities.

[Read more ...]

Just moseying along, for 5,000 miles

AZCentral.com - Full Story

Amy B Wang, The Republic | azcentral.com
April 6, 2015

Canadian Len Crow wanted to help fund orphanages, so he decided to ride horseback from Alaska to Mexico. Six times.

For the last 10 months, neither snow nor rain nor heat nor torn rotator cuff has stayed rancher and pastor Len Crow from his goal: to ride 6,800 miles on horseback from the edge of the Arctic Ocean to Guadalajara, Mexico.

This is Crow's sixth such "endurance" horseback ride for charity. The 61-year-old Canadian is using the trip to raise money to build five orphanages, one each in Cambodia, Guatemala, India, Mexico and the Philippines.

Crow began his journey on June 6, 2014, departing from — of all places — Deadhorse, Alaska. He'll admit it was not the most auspiciously named starting point, but the map left him no choice.

"I wanted to go as far north in North America as I could by road," Crow said. "That was as far as I could get. We chose that as our beginning point."

By the time he pulled into Eagar, Ariz., last week, Crow had ridden about 5,400 miles. He has 1,400 to go...

Read more here:
http://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona/2015/04/06/len-crow-missions-endurance-horseback-charity-arizona/25386383/

AERC Trails and Land Management Committee announces a new Trails Email forum

The objective of the AERC Trails and Land Management Committee is to work with the AERC membership and other concerned equestrian trail users to develop a popular trails advocacy web environment. AERC is dedicated to the riding of historic trails and encouraging the establishment, preservation and maintenance of all trails on both public and private lands.

In an effort to expand AERC's trail advocacy reach, the committee has created a Trails Email Forum for AERC members. The forum is for members interested in all things trails to share trail story’s, ideas, experiences, advice, and general brain storming. This forum will stay positive and constructive.

Please contact Monica Chapman AERC Trails Committee Chair to join the list.

For more information on the AERC Trails committee visit the AERC.org website.

Hot Stuff: Endurance Rider Gives Back

April 6 2015
by Merri Melde-Endurance.net

Ann Kuck of Star, Idaho, discovered the sport of endurance riding in 2005 from the back of her big bay molly mule, Lamplighter Hot Stuff, whom she'd gotten as a yearling. 'Stuffy' was out of a quarter horse mare and a mammoth jack. "She was a pretty big girl - a bit over 15 hands," says Ann. "I quit measuring her when she turned three because it was getting too scary to know how far off the ground I was sitting (and how far it was to fall)."

Ann and her big girl shared the joys of 1280 miles of endurance trails over 8 seasons in the Northwest - and then something went wrong. Hot Stuff's bone marrow had stopped producing red blood cells in July of 2013. "There was nothing we could do to cure the condition that she had, and it could not be managed in a way that would keep her comfortable," Ann says; and tragically, she had to say goodbye to her 23-year-old partner.

A member of AERC (American Endurance Ride Conference), and SWIT&DR (Southwest Idaho Trail and Distance Riders) since 2005, and Vice-President of SWIT&DR for the last 3 years, Ann had been trying to think of new ways to encourage new riders, who might not know about endurance, to come to some rides and see what endurance is all about. Most Idaho endurance rides offer welcoming Trail Rides (distances of 10 to 15 miles), so that 'newbies' and their horses get to experience the flavor of endurance riding - from the camping with their horse in Ridecamp, the commotion of horses and riders coming and going different distances and different directions throughout the day, following marked trails, going through a vet check, and of course enjoying the camaraderie, dinners, and awards afterwards.

"Most new folks probably won't just enter a Limited Distance or Endurance ride to start with, but maybe they would enjoy a trail ride," Ann comments. "I decided to fund the 'Hot Stuff Memorial Trail Rider Encouragement Fund' to see if we can nudge folks into coming out to explore the places that we enjoy, and to meet others who ride endurance, LD or trail rides. I am hoping that, if we can help with some of the expense, we can encourage more new people to join in on all our fun."

This year in the SWIT&DR rides, Ann is subsidizing the ride registrations for trail riders with $10.00, up to 10 riders (total of $100.00). Ann would like to give priority to new trail riders, but, she said, "I really don't care who does a trail ride. The subsidy can be used by any trail rider."

At the first Northwest ride of the 2015 season, the Owyhee Tough Sucker I in Oreana, Idaho, on April 4, "We had four new trail riders!" Ann reports. "I know that two of the new trail riders are from The Western Riding Club and they had a great time. They were planning to attend their monthly WRC meeting [the same evening,] and I hope they gave a great report." The Western Riding Club of Idaho calls itself the "Oldest Family Riding Club in Idaho," and the group convenes to take on trail challenges, day and overnight rides, poker rides, parades, playdays, and more.

Ann is excited to be able to give back to the sport in which she shared so many wonderful memories looking down the trails through Hot Stuff's big ears. Part of Ann's family is gone now, but with her generous offer to new riders, the memories live on.

Back Country Horsemen of America Works to Benefit All Trail Users

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 3, 2015

by Sarah Wynne Jackson
 
Back Country Horsemen of America protects our right to ride horses on public lands in a wide variety of ways across the country. They believe in putting a priority on the things that really matter, such as making our beautiful landscape accessible to all users and developing partnerships that help us accomplish that. BCH folks know there’s value in lending a hand, even on projects that don’t directly benefit horse users.
 
Building Relationships
 
Sometimes building relationships means pitching in even if you have to leave your horses at home. The Uinta Basin Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of Utah have been looking for ways to get involved with trail work in Dinosaur National Monument. This National Park Service property along the Colorado and Utah border consists of 210,000 acres of river canyons, mountains, and basins that support over a thousand different native species of plants and animals. The Utah side also boasts dinosaur fossils and the world renowned Carnegie Fossil Quarry.
 
Although horseback riding is not yet allowed in Dinosaur National Monument, the Uinta Basin Chapter BCH contacted the land managers to offer their assistance with trail maintenance. Because of Back Country Horsemen of America’s reputation, they were told a face-to-face meeting was not necessary and were asked to help with work on a hiking trail. Uinta Chapter Back Country Horsemen members met with hikers, youth volunteers, and NPS em­ployees to build rock cairns and a rock stair step on the busy Sound of Silence hiking trail.
 
After a long work day, BCH members discussed with the land managers the possibility of a horse trail in Dinosaur National Monument and were invited to meet formally for further discussion. Lending a hand where it’s needed, regardless of personal interests, builds a rapport that benefits everyone. The Uinta Basin Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of Utah will continue nurturing this relationship, making a way for us to enjoy this stunning landscape by horseback.
 
Preserving History
 
Back Country Horsemen of America values our country’s past and welcomes opportunities to preserve it. Managers of the Salmon-Challis National Forest recently began restoration of the Norton Ridge Lookout in the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness. This abandoned cabin sits on an open mountaintop at nearly 8500 feet elevation. Constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1933 to house fire spotters, it is eligible to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
 
The Treasure Valley Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of Idaho eagerly participated in the project which was carried out under the super­vision of Archaeologist John Rose from the Challis office of the Salmon-Challis National Forest. Their purpose was to begin the restoration work necessary to maintain the cabin’s historical value and for the use and enjoyment of the structure by the US Forest Service and the public.
 
Treasure Valley Chapter BCH’s first task was to pack in wood shingles to be stored inside the cabin for re-roof­ing at a future date. They trucked their horses and equipment seven hours to the trailhead at Meyer’s Cove. From there, they rode and led their pack animals 14 miles along Camas Creek to the spot where it flows into the Middle Fork of the Salmon River. The next day the group rode 11 miles upstream along the Middle Fork River to the Sim­plot Ranch and airstrip, where the shingles were delivered by plane.
 
At this point, it was learned that the 11 mile trail from the airstrip to the cabin had not been cleared. Most of the TVBCH group spent four days clearing the trail and packing the shingles up to the cabin. It took another two days to pack out to the trailhead and return home. Despite the long trip and various challenges, the Treasure Valley Chapter of Back Country Horsemen enjoyed taking part in an important historic project.
 
About Back Country Horsemen of America
 
BCHA is a non-profit corporation made up of state organizations, affiliates, and at-large members. Their efforts have brought about positive changes regarding the use of horses and stock in wilderness and public lands.
 
If you want to know more about Back Country Horsemen of America or become a member, visit their website: www.bcha.org; call 888-893-5161; or write PO Box 1367, Graham, WA 98338-1367. The future of horse use on public lands is in our hands!

Peg Greiwe
1-888-893-5161
Peg@bcha.org

60th Anniversary Tevis Cup Entries are Available

April 2 2015

With just over 17 weeks till the 60th annual Tevis Cup on August 1, entries are available here.

The $400.00 fee includes drug testing, Robie Park camping, and one ticket to the Sunday Awards Banquet. Complete pages 1-4 of the application. Award buckle is $160.00 when reserved pre-ride and is nonrefundable. Buckles are $250 when purchased post ride. Due to low inventory of donated buckles from riders who have previously completed the Tevis, the Legacy Buckle Program will not be offered for 2015. We sincerely hope that the program can be reinstituted in future years when our “recycled” buckle inventory is sufficient to support the demand for this highly successful and much appreciated program.

Signature ride entries are available for $1500, and include a traditional ride entry plus a generous donation to the Western States Trail Foundation. The entry package includes a buckle upon completion of the ride, a commissioned print by Chuck Centers specially created for the WSTF which is shown on the signature entry form, an invitation for 2 to the VIP/Foreign Rider dinner, 2 tickets to the Wednesday evening barbecue, 2 tickets to the Robie Park Friday night dinner, reserved seating and 2 tickets to the Sunday Awards Banquet, 4 nights of stabling for your horse, and additional items. The Signature Rider also receives CalStar helicopter insurance for a year, parking assistance at the Robie Park ride camp and Foresthill vet check.

For complete entry information and forms, see
http://teviscup.org/images/2015/2015_Tevis_Entry_1-31-15.pdf

45 earlybird riders have already signed up, including foreign riders from Canada, Australia, and Guatemala:
http://teviscup.org/tevis-2015/tevis-rider-list-2

April 1 Deadline for National Recognition of your Trail Project

Coalition for Recreational Trails
ANNUAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS


Awards for projects funded through the federal Recreational Trails Program of the Federal Highway Administration
APPLICATION DEADLINE: April 1, 2015

The Coalition for Recreational Trails, a federation of national and regional trail-related organizations, is pleased to announce its 2015 achievement awards to recognize outstanding trail projects funded by the national Recreational Trails Program (RTP). The awards will be presented in Washington, D.C. during Great Outdoors Month™ in June 2015 as part of the Coalition’s ongoing effort to build awareness and appreciation of this highly successful program, which has greatly enhanced the quantity and quality of trail experiences available to the public. We will be holding the awards ceremony on Capitol Hill and will encourage Members of Congress to join us in honoring the outstanding achievements of their constituents.
As an additional benefit, American Trails makes a web page for each winning project. See the over 100 award pages we have created since 2003. We hope you will join us in this important effort to recognize the significant contributions to our nationwide system of trails and greenways that the Recreational Trails Program is supporting all across the country

Awards are given in several categories:
• Maintenance and Rehabilitation – maintaining, repairing damage to, or upgrading the quality of a trail to improve the trail experience, increase user safety, and/or enhance protection of the environment, including wildlife
• Construction and Design – planning and building a trail, portions of a trail (e.g., a bridge), or trail-related facilities (e.g., a trailhead, shelter, etc.)
• Public-Private Partnerships and Access to/Use of Public Lands – facilitating and/or encouraging cost-effective partnerships between public and private entities, especially to increase access to and use of federal, state and local public lands, including parks, forests and wildlife refuges
• Community Linkage – providing and/or enhancing opportunities for trail-based recreation and transportation within or near local communities
• Education and Communication – using a variety of established and/or technologically innovative communications tools (e.g., web sites, social media and peer-to-peer information sharing) to increase environmental awareness, promote trail-related safety, encourage trail-related outdoor recreation and, overall, enhance trail use and enjoyment
• Multiple-Use Management & Corridor Sharing – facilitating and/or encouraging the use of a trail corridor by more than one type of trail enthusiast, particularly those enthusiasts that do not ordinarily share trails or trail-related facilities
• Accessibility Enhancement – facilitating and/or encouraging increased access to trail-related recreation opportunities for people with disabilities
• Youth Conservation/Service Corps and Community Outreach – making effective use of the services and skills of qualified youth conservation or service corps and other community organizations as project partners and supporters

NOMINATING A PROJECT
Award winners will be selected from projects nominated by public agencies, trail administrators or other project sponsors. Projects must be completed in order to receive an award. In addition, projects completed before 2007 are ineligible.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: April 1, 2015. The nomination form and any supporting materials, including pictures, should be returned via e-mail by April 1, 2015 to the Chair of the Coalition’s Awards Committee: Duane Taylor, Director of Federal Affairs, Motorcycle Industry Council, at coalitionforrectrails@gmail.com. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to call him at (703) 416-0444 or send him an e-mail. Winners should be notified no later than May 8, 2015.

The 2015 nomination form can be found on this page:
http://www.americantrails.org/awards/CRTawards.html

2015 Trails4Transplants Ride being organized

Page1publications.com - Full Article

March 30 2015

I have heard a phrase that says “There are horse people and then there are other people.” Riding horses certainly seems to set this group apart.

We ride for a noble cause! Trails4Transplants is a long-distance, multiple week long trail ride, organized to raise awareness about organ, eye, and tissue donation, alleviate major health issues by simply raising awareness for the immense needs of organ donation and promote donor registration.

Proceeds go to the Gift of Life Transplant House in Rochester, MN, which is a facility where organ recipients and their families can stay at a reduced cost while awaiting or following a life-saving organ or tissue transplant.

The organization urges everyone to give the gift of life and register to be a donor today at donatelife.net/register-now/.

It was this need that prompted the Hilles and the Petersons from Warren to organize a long distance trail ride called Trails4Transplants. Both couples have had experiences with organ transplants, but in very different ways.

Roger Hille was inspired by a success story, saying, "My son-in-law, Dave, received a liver transplant in 1998 when he was 26 years old. He went on to marry my daughter and have two children. Without the gift of organ donation, I would not have my precious grandchildren..."

Read more here:
http://www.page1publications.com/94197/1811/03272015nstar

At 84, he's not just any old Ironman

Telegraph.co.uk - Full Article

by Theo Merz
8:29AM GMT 25 Mar 2015

You swim for 2.4 miles, then you cycle for 112 miles. Then you run a marathon. Often in the heat, sometimes with the wind against you.

Even the idea of the Ironman triathlon – which is held all around the world and widely considered to be among the toughest endurance races going – is enough to make most men in their twenties quake.

And yet Lew Hollander, an 84-year-old from Oregon, USA, is now preparing for his 59th such race – and gearing up to break the Guinness World Record for oldest competitor, which he set himself at the age of 82.

“Use it or lose it,” Hollander says when asked the secret of his longevity. “Don’t say, ‘Ow, my knee hurts’. If you get out and use it, your body will tend to make it better again...”

Read more here:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/men/active/11492579/At-84-hes-not-just-any-old-Ironman.html

Back Country Horsemen of California Clears Storm Damage in the Sierra Mountains

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 6, 2015
 
by Sarah Wynne Jackson
 
The folks at Back Country Horsemen of America feel very fortunate to live in such a beautiful country, and are dedicated to protecting our right to travel this stunning landscape by horseback, as our ancestors did. An important part of that goal is the down and dirty labor required to re-open trails and access roads after storms of rain, snow, ice, and wind.
 
A Special Place
 
A storm with winds in excess of 140 mph hit the Sierra Mountains in November 2013, leaving many popular campgrounds and trails inaccessible due to toppled trees. Since then, various groups have made cleanup efforts in the affected area.
 
The Mother Lode Unit of Back Country Horsemen of California spent two days in the Eldorado National Forest opening up trails around the Tells Creek Horse Camp, which is nestled among the pristine lakes of the Crystal Basin at 6,300 feet above sea level.
 
From there, adventurers on foot, horseback, mountain bikes, skis or snowshoes explore the local land that was the Van Vleck cattle ranch from the 1860s to the 1960s. Some also take longer trips into the Desolation Wilderness, 63,960 acres of alpine forest, granite peaks, and glacially-formed valleys and lakes.
 
A Big Job
 
BCHC’s first work day began with a mandatory safety briefing, then the volunteer sawyers, trained by the US Forest Service, and their helpers began work on a two-mile section of the Two Peaks Trail from the Tells Creek Horse Camp to the Bassi Creek crossing. The most experienced crewmember commented that this was the worst storm damage he’d seen in 18 years of trail maintenance.
 
Leapfrog Isn’t Just a Game
 
Seven workers each rode a saddle horse and four pack animals hauled an assort­ment of chainsaws, axes, shovels, and other equipment, including a Peavey pry bar. This odd apparatus looks like a five-foot pry bar with a hinged fish hook near the end, which enables a single person to roll large, heavy log segments off the trail without back strain.
 
The Mother Lode Back Country Horsemen work group separated into two teams and used the very effective leapfrog technique. The first team unpacked and cut the first obstacle. While they cleared the area of debris and repacked the gear, the second team proceeded to the second obstacle, unpacked and cut that one.
 
Teams of three or four people makes quick work of the task without members getting in each other’s way. Working in shifts also allows teams to last a bit longer at this exhausting elevation. If they en­countered a nest of tangled logs, the two teams took turns cutting and removing debris.
 
Up to the Challenge
 
The Mother Lode Unit spent six hours clearing about three dozen trees from two miles of trail. After watering their stock at the Bassi Creek crossing, the return trip took only 45 minutes on the now open track. The next morning, the group crossed Bassi Creek and cleared about 20 trees from the next part of the Two Peaks Trail. There they met up with another work party who had cleared trails around Barrett Lake and Pearl Lake on the far side of the summit of Two Peaks East.
 
The job is tough, but projects like this are essential to preserving our access to America’s wild places. Back Country Horsemen groups from coast to coast routinely spend over 300,000 volunteer hours each year maintaining trails, trail heads, and camps for all users.
 
About Back Country Horsemen of America
 
BCHA is a non-profit corporation made up of state organizations, affiliates, and at-large members. Their efforts have brought about positive changes regarding the use of horses and stock in wilderness and public lands.
 
If you want to know more about Back Country Horsemen of America or become a member, visit their website: www.backcountryhorse.com; call 888-893-5161; or write PO Box 1367, Graham, WA 98338-1367. The future of horse use on public lands is in our hands!

Peg Greiwe
1-888-893-5161

National Forest Trail Bill Introduced

Horsecouncil.org

Submitted by admin on Wed, 02/11/2015 - 14:01

On February 10, 2015, Congresswomen Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Tim Walz (D-MN) re-introduced the National Forest Service Trail Stewardship Act of 2015 (H.R.845). The bill would direct the Forest Service to take several actions to help address the current trail maintenance backlog that is adversely impacting all trail users on many national forests, including equestrians. The bill was first introduced during the last Congress. The American Horse Council, Backcountry Horsemen of America, and the Wilderness Society were significantly involved in the creation of this bill.

A June 2013, study by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that the Forest Service has deferred trail maintenance needs that exceed half-billion dollars, and only one-quarter of the agency’s 158,000 miles of trails meets agency standards for maintenance. This maintenance backlog is causing access and safety issues for equestrians and all trail users on national forests.

The National Forest Service Trail Stewardship Act would direct the Forest Service to develop a strategy to more effectively utilize volunteers and partners to assist in maintaining national forest trails. It will also provide outfitters and guides the ability to perform trail maintenance activities in lieu of permit fees. Additionally, the bill would address a liability issue that has discouraged some national forests from utilizing volunteers and partner organizations to help perform trail maintenance and would direct the Forest Service to identify and prioritize specific areas with the greatest need for trail maintenance in the national forest system.

In the current fiscal environment it is unlikely Congress will appropriate additional funds to directly address the trail maintenance backlog. This bill will help improve trail maintenance without the need for additional funding.

The bill is supported by the AHC and many other recreation organizations.

Equine Land Conservation - Planning and Zoning Webinar and On-line Guide

The Basics of Planning and Zoning for Horse-Friendly Communities

Date: March 24, 2015
Speaker: Christine Hughes, AICP Senior Long Range Planner, City of Wilmington Planning, Development, & Transportation.

ELCR and My Horse University are partnering to bring you this informative webinar. Local governments of all shapes and sizes are using planning and zoning tools in their communities. This webinar will discuss the basics of planning and zoning, and will cover the tools of zoning codes and the comprehensive plan. In plain terms, learn how to understand what your property is zoned, how to get involved in the planning process, and what to look for relative to horse-friendly plans and regulations. Click here to register.

Planning and Zoning Guide for Horse Friendly Communities Now Available On-Line - click here

Planning and zoning decisions can affect how land is taxed, what it may be used for, and which standards and regulations are applied to it. These regulations determine not only whether individuals may keep horses on their own property, but also whether horses have access to community parks and trails.

Since land is saved locally it is vital that horsemen understand the basics of planning and zoning and how this impacts horse keeping, breeding, competing and recreating, as well as equine related businesses in their communities, in order to retain access to horses and enjoy their benefits.

The Planning and Zoning Guide for Horse-Friendly Communities is an important comprehensive resource for horsemen providing users with the tools they need to understand comprehensive planning, land use mapping, zoning ordinances, and the effects of these on horse keeping and other horse-related activitie s within their own local communities. The information will help them to be engaged in the process, to activate their equine community and to educate planners and decision makers on the benefits of horses in their communities.

National Recognition For Your Trails Project

DEADLINE: WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015

Coalition for Recreational Trails ANNUAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

Awards for projects funded through the federal Recreational Trails Program of the Federal Highway Administration

Has your trail received funding through the Recreational Trails Program (RTP)?

Here is a great opportunity for national recognition that also helps all of us make the case for continued funding for trails!

Learn more about the Coalition for Recreational Trails Annual Achievement Awards and download the Nomination Form...

March's Endurance Day on Horses In The Morning with Karen Chaton

Horsesinthemorning.com - Listen!

March 10 2015

Endurance Day with Karen Chaton opens with yet another camping with horses adventure story. Guests include Natasha Willemse with Pandora Saddles and Wayne Woolway talks about starting out in Endurance as an adult. Listen in...

http://www.horsesinthemorning.com/hitm-for-03-10-2015-endurance-day-with-karen-chaton-high-tech-pandora-saddles-wayne-woolway-jack-daniels/

$100,000 Time to Ride Challenge Now Open for Registration

USEFNetwork.com

RELEASE: March 11, 2015
AUTHOR/ADMINISTRATOR: American Horse Council

Washington, D.C. - Registration is now open at www.timetoride.com for the 2015 Time to Ride Challenge, a grassroots campaign offering $100,000 cash and prizes to horse professionals to grow the horse industry by introducing people to horses through beginner­ friendly horse experiences.

Entrants will organize Time to Ride Challenge events to take place from May 30 ­ September 30, 2015 and offer a unique opportunity for stables, horse clubs, veterinarians, feed stores, businesses and organizations to welcome new participants to horse activities. Event “Hosts” are organized into Small, Medium and Large divisions and are encouraged to be creative in providing fun, safe and educational horse events that encourage attendees to become further involved in riding and other horse activities. The Hosts who provide an introductory experience to the greatest number of newcomers, determined by contact information collected, will win cash awards.

Last year’s winner of the Small Division and the $10,000 cash prize was 16 Acres Equine Educational Complex of Union Grove, Wisconsin. “Time to Ride paid me to market myself. The Challenge has opened doors,” said Jody Halladay, owner. 16 Acres Equine Educational Complex reached hundreds of newcomers at a time by participating in many community events such as “Dairy Days” at a local farm, farmers’ markets, festivals, storytelling times, and community gatherings at children’s activity centers. When speaking of her delight in winning the cash prize, Halladay states, “it’s done more than just get us a new barn roof. We are going to be running the educational booth at the county fair next year; our lesson program has grown… things have come our way because of this!” In 2014, 16 Acres shared the joy of horses with 2,840 newcomers.

Statistics show that current horse owners are an aging population and that moms with children hold the greatest potential for campaigns such as the Time to Ride Challenge. Many of the stables that participated in the 2014 Challenge held events that introduced children to horses and offered parents information on how to get their families involved in riding. A post­ Challenge survey revealed that 92% of the 25,281 newcomers who participated in a Time to Ride event said they wanted to participate in more horse activities.Challenge updates for 2015 include more cash prizes, with grand prize winners in each division receiving $10,000, and cash awards given through tenth place. The completely redesigned and user ­friendly website is now accessible at www.timetoridechallenge.com. Hosts will receive free marketing resources including a toolkit, an event idea guide, customizable ads and posters, media templates and more.

Registration for the 2015 Challenge will be open until May 26, 2015. To learn more about the Time to Ride Challenge, please visit www.timetoridechallenge.com or email info@timetoride.com.

AERC Board of Directors Convention Wrap Up

2015 Convention Summary of AERC BoD meetings

The American Endurance Ride Conference held its annual convention March 5-8 in Reno, Nevada. I don’t have official attendance numbers, but I’m confident that attendance was higher than last year. In particular, the tack sale area had more saddles and other goodies than I have seen in years. I managed to snag copies of out of print Walter Farley books (remember how we all got started on horses as kids reading the Black Stallion series?).

At the Thursday Board of Directors (BoD) meeting, the Board approved changes to the deadlines for Special Sanctioning requests; the time requirements are shorter now with improved electronic communication. The Board and attending members were introduced to our new Marketing Director, Candace FitzGerald. John Parke provided a briefing on our insurance and also reviewed Board functions and obligations for new Board members. I have heard John give this lecture many times and I always look forward to it and learn from it. The Board also had extended discussions of AERC concerns regarding FEI endurance competition in the UAE. Valery Kanavy (USEF Technical Committee) and Dr. Dwight Hooten (USEF Veterinary Committee) graciously provided insights from their years of experience with international competition. Further discussion was deferred to the Sunday meeting (see below).

Throughout the day, on Friday and Saturday, various AERC committees held their meetings and a variety of seminars were offered on Body Condition Scoring, conducting a clinic for new riders, protecting trail access, equine gastric ulcers, veterinary analysis of the horse’s back, promoting longevity in endurance horses, nutrition for endurance horses and presenting your horse for the Best Condition award at rides.

On both days, John Parke (assisted by his Great Pyrenees, Biscuit) conducted his Hot Topics; Friday on problems in the international endurance competition, especially re: the UAE, and Saturday on developing new members. John always does an excellent job at eliciting the ideas of members and maintaining a constructive dialog.
Friday evening, John Parke hosted the Regional Awards ceremony, again assisted by Biscuit. John made the evening fun for everyone so that all awardees felt deservedly special for their accomplishments. Following the awards, members enjoyed music and dancing.

The Saturday BoD meeting opened with a State of the Conference update by President Michael Campbell. New members, Christoph Schork, Kevin Waters, and Tom Bache, were sworn in and appreciation for their service extended to departing members, Bruce Weary, Rusty Toth and Leslie Anderson. Officers were elected/re-elected: President Michael Campbell, Vice President Lisa Schneider, Secretary Susan Garlinghouse (replacing Monica Chapman) and Treasurer Mollie Krumlaw-Smith. The Board then heard comments/feedback from the members in attendance. The comments included concerns about the reporting of equine fatalities, equine health insurance, ride insurance, forming chapters of AERC, developing plans of succession for retiring ride managers, adjusting ride time for difficult terrain, and requests that AERC not “dumb down” ride standards by making the sport easier.
Saturday evening was the National Awards ceremony and banquet featuring Masters of Ceremony John Parke and Bruce Weary assisted by Susan Garlinghouse in her “Vanna White” role. I won’t list all the winners here, but they will be published on the website and in Endurance News.

Sunday morning, the Board, and a few die hard members, met for a marathon discussion of several important issues. Our new Marketing Director, Candace FitzGerald, presented her plan for promoting AERC throughout the coming year. Committee chairs for several committees were approved. The Strategic Plan for AERC’s future growth and development was presented by John Parke and approved by the Board. Progress on the development of the Supporting Organization for AERC was also presented by John Parke. The Budget for 2015 was presented by Treasurer Mollie Krumlaw-Smith and approved by the Board. Vice President Lisa Schneider and Board Member Mike Maul presented the new web site to be installed in the near future. The Board voted to approve Special Sanctioning for two rides. AERC-I, AERC’s international committee, sent the Board a report re: the 2016 World Equestrian Championship (WEC) scheduled for Dubai. The committee recommended that AERC withhold support for that location due to UAE violations of FEI rules re: horse welfare and fair play. The Board discussed concerns about FEI competition in the UAE, especially the scheduled 2016 WEC in Dubai. The Board voted to send USEF (our National Federation) AERC’s insistence that FEI open for bids the location of the 2016 WEC and disallow any bid from the UAE. If no acceptable bids are received, AERC expects FEI to cancel the 2016 WEC rather than hold it in the UAE. A letter from AERC to USEF to this effect is being prepared and will go out this week.

This was one of the most productive and successful conventions that I have attended. Special thanks are owed by us all to AERC staff: Executive Director Kathleen Henkel, Troy Smith, Kyra and, especially, Kathleen’s husband, Lary, and her sisters and their families for organizing and staffing the many functions necessary for a successful convention. With Kathleen, we get a lot of bang for our buck.

American Endurance Ride Conference Names 2014 Honorees

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RENO, Nevada – March 10, 2015 – In a sport where simply crossing the finish line takes determination and grit, earning Hall of Fame honors in the American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) is reserved for those riders and equines with true tenacity. Endurance enthusiasts from all over the country gathered this weekend in Reno to attend the AERC Annual Conference and national awards banquet where Pat Oliva, 78, was named AERC’s Hall of Fame person. Pat has been competing in endurance riding for more than 40 years, with a 21,495 lifetime miles on rides of 50 miles or longer. An inspiration to all who know her, the Woodbine, Maryland, septuagenarian completed 575 miles of endurance competition in 2014.

Introduced by one of the many riders Pat has mentored over the years, AERC Board Member Skip Kemerer, Pat took to the stage with her characteristic modesty and good humor. “I want you to know that it’s because of all of you that I’m still riding,” she said. “We race each other but in the afternoon, when the ride is over, we’re all friends.” Upon accepting her award, Pat encouraged her fellow endurance riders to “pass that kindness on to others.” Known for her loud and frequent laugh, Pat rode the first-ever Old Dominion endurance ride, back in 1974, as well as the 40th anniversary ride in 2014. Her main mount over the past year has been Colonel Pepper, an 18-year-old bay Arabian gelding.

AERC’s Hall of Fame horse for 2014 is MRR Pyro (“Murphy”), owned by Karen Fredrickson of Kneeland, California. Murphy is a ranch horse who just happens to have captured just about every honor an equine can earn in AERC: Decade Team (10 years of competition with a single rider), Perfect Ten (10,000 miles, 10 years of competition, 10 first place wins, 10 Best Condition wins), and the Pard’ners Award, for the ultimate in sportsmanship and team partnership, with his human counterpart.

Murphy, 18, has a 97% completion rate, remarkable in a sport where so much can happen over 50 miles of competition out on trails in the wilderness. Karen accepted the award for Murphy, calling him her “once-in-a-lifetime horse” and said he was the personification of all the horses in children’s stories, cowboy tales and Disney movies you could imagine.

American Endurance Ride Conference Names 2014 Honorees 2-2-2-2

The organization’s Pard’ners Award went to Ron Barrett and Rafuro HCC. With 132 finishes out of 134 starts, the duo teamed up to compete for 19 seasons before Raf retired in 2006. To date, Ron has completed 11,200 AERC miles and Raf retired with 7,380 miles.

Gail Williams of Zillah, Washington, won the Ann Parr Trails Preservation Award for her trail building (and re-building) work in endurance riding’s Northwest Region. The Anne Ayala Junior Scholarship went to young rider Starla Dale of Murrieta, California.

Members of the nonprofit American Endurance Ride Conference, which sanctions distance rides of 25 to 100 miles, will again gather for their annual awards presentations next March in Reno, Nevada. More information on endurance riding is available by visiting www.aerc.org or by calling the AERC office at 823-2260. By request, the office will send out a free information packet to prospective members.

Contact:
Troy Smith
American Endurance Ride Conference
endurancenews@foothill.net
866-271-2372, 530-823-2260