Abu Dhabi: Taking on world's best in horse riding

Portstephensexaminer.com.au

BY DANIEL MILLS
09 Nov, 2011 01:00 AM

TWO Bobs Farm horse riders will make a journey to the Middle East in December to compete in a prestigious horse riding event.

Allix Jones, 18, and Brooke Warner, 20, will form one half of the Australian Young Riders Endurance squad to travel to Abu Dhabi to compete against the world's best in endurance horse riding.

More than 25 countries are expected to take part.

Only four riders will represent the Australian team at the championships, with most other nations nominating six.

Both Warner and Jones rode distances of more than 360 kilometres this year during three endurance riding events to qualify. A ride of 120 kilometres usually takes around seven hours, however, on the fast and flat terrains of Abu Dhabi, whichWarner said has some of the world's best riders, the journey is cut by a third.

"It would usually only take about four and a half, or five and a half hours," she said.

Both riders will take one horse each on their trip.

Riding before they learnt to walk, it's been a journey both have had the privilege to enjoy since beginning their riding career together as six and eight year olds.

Some $20,000 has been spent between both families to get to this stage, and they are making a call to help fund their travel and accommodation expenses.

Phone on 0488470049 or 0413067624 to help.