Horseandhound.co.uk - Full ArticleMadeleine Pitt
24 April, 2015
The Golden Horseshoe was first run on Exmoor in 1965, but the current organiser Barbara Wigley, 67, retires this year, and no one has yet stepped up to take the helm. On the eve of its 50th anniversary, which could be its last, we take a look back at the ride’s history.
1. The first ride was organised in 1965 by the British Horse Society, promoted by author Ronald Duncan and Colonel Mike Ansell, and sponsored by The Sunday Telegraph. It was so popular that organisers had to close entries a month early, having reached the limit of 110 entrants.
2. The route started at Malmsmead and finished at Ronald Duncan’s home in Welcombe, Devon.
3. In 1965 were no markers, and riders had to find their own way, including navigating across ‘The Chains’ [a wild moorland ridge] with the help of local people on Exmoor ponies...
Read more at http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/features/9-things-you-might-not-know-about-the-golden-horseshoe-ride-483379#rCZsCeyv2Yyet12c.99
