Endurance

The race may be 80, 120, or 160km in distance, and can be completed in one or over several days. It is a long-distance sport covering variations in altitude, terrain, and weather that tests the fitness and stamina of the horse as well as the athlete’s discipline and horsemanship skills. Given their ability to meet and master physical challenges, it’s no surprise that Arabians and their close kin dominate in this discipline.

Priorities of endurance are the safe management of the horse’s stamina and fitness and completion of the race with the horse in good condition, all while testing the athlete’s discipline and horsemanship skills. Periodic mandatory checkpoints occur throughout the competition to ensure the health, fitness and welfare of the horse and if the combination is fit to continue.

Frequent mandatory veterinary inspections determine if the horse is fit to continue and ensure the horse’s welfare. Like all equestrian disciplines, endurance is a gender neutral sport with men and women competing against each other equally.