Great Britain: GB endurance team for World Equestrian Games announced

Horseandhound.co.uk - Full Article

Amy Mathieson, H&H news writer
7 July, 2010

The British endurance team heading to Kentucky for the World Equestrian Games has been confirmed.

Alice Beet, Beccy Broughton-Booker, Ros Clapp, Janice Cockley-Adams and Christine Yeoman will represent Great Britain at WEG (25 September-10 October)

And the non-travelling reserves will be Charlotte Bryd, Karen Jones, Sarah Rogerson and David Yeoman.

The team horses are yet to be announced.

"We are confident that we have a strong team, with a vast amount of experience at international and championship level, capable of competing against the best in the world for medals," said chairman of selectors, Di Latham...

Read more here:
http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/397/299861.html

New Zealand: Marlborough riders bag national awards

Stuff.co.nz - Full Article

The Marlborough Express
08/07/2010

Marlborough endurance riders Kylie Avery, Missy Green, Tessa Wells and Sherryl Wells scooped major awards at the National Endurance New Zealand prizegiving held in Christchurch last weekend.

Avery, a Marlborough member now living in Canterbury, riding Silands Mia Bella, took out the Endurance Senior Horse and Rider of the Year award for most points throughout the 2009-10 season. She also finished third for overall senior distance rider, completing 1235.5 kilometres, which were mostly accumulated on two mounts – Mia Bella and Silands Jasark, and ninth on Horse and Rider points with Silands Jasark.

Green and Xavier Cheerokee topped the Competitive Trail Riding Open Horse and Rider rankings, with fellow Marlborough duos Heidi Bulfin on Stonelea Sparkling Rose (runner-up), Lorraine Stratford on Jay, Oliver Radford on Temptations Future and Kim Swan riding Roselea Shady filling the next four placings.

Xavier Cheerokee took out the Open Distance horse title with 380km (from 10 rides), while Jay came in second, with Sparkling Rose, Temptations Future and Roselea Shady third, fourth and fifth respectively. Tessa Wells, riding Masada Park Maestro, claimed both the Junior CTR Horse and Rider award and Junior Distance horse with 253km...

Read more here:
http://www.stuff.co.nz/marlborough-express/sport/3896813/Marlborough-riders-bag-national-awards

Spain: Riders and horses selected for the European Championship Youth Ride

El Raid blog - Gabriel Gamiz

Wednesday July 7 2010

The Royal Spanish Equestrian Federation has given the following note with horses and riders shortlisted for the European Championships in Kreuth Raid Youth (Germany).

"Value for youth riders and horses shortlisted to attend the European Championship in Raid Kreuth (Germany) from 1 to August 6, 2010.

Muixi Agda Troy 3, and Nibra NIBR
Almudena Albarran Chilliqui
Maria Ledesma Opalia
Carlos Borja Claire
Eva Estaulella Heura
Berta Pujadas Urra
Ivan Padros Inguru
Diego Haces Esso
Ibon Alberdi Kat tq

Yebra Quico coach will contact the shortlisted staff to mark the anticipated work patterns before the final delivery of those selected to be the day 21/07/2010.

Concentration-review Pujal raid -10/07/2010

Final list 21/07/2010

Mother's Day Out 30/07/2010

Arrival Kreuth day 1/07/2010

03/08/2010 Opening ceremony

Prior examination 04/08/2005

Race 05/08/2010

Vuelta 07/08/2010"

WEG Regional U.S. Endurance Team Selection Trials Held

article at http://www.thehorse.com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=16594
by: Marsha Hayes
July 05 2010, Article # 16594

The quality and depth of the horses and riders vying for the five coveted spots on the United States endurance team for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrain Games were made apparent after three regional selection trials held June 20-28. "We identified some very good horses," noted Chef d'Equipe Becky Hart, three-time World Endurance Champion.

The trials, held in Fairhill, Md., Danville, Ill., and Prineville, Ore., were all attended by the five selectors, a three-member veterinary panel, Hart, and Vonita Bowers, Director of Endurance and Reining Activities for the United States Equestrian Federation. The selection team is looking for horses capable of covering 100 miles in around eight hours, or less.

In her role as team leader, coach, and trainer, Hart has been studying workout logs and heart rate monitor printouts of the 50-60 candidate horses to help her organize them into compatible groups before sending them on loops of various lengths and speeds. The veterinary panel members Jim Bryant Jr., DVM, Dipl. ACVS; Todd Holbrook, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM; and Duncan Peters, DVM, monitored the horses' soundness, hydration, and recovery times.

"Having a research interest in exercise physiology, I found the trials especially intriguing," said Holbrook. He is working on a future study on watering horses in extreme heat Fascinated by the different environmental factors found at the three locations, he is currently analyzing lab work on the horses. The heat indexes varied greatly between the Oregon and Illinois sites, with Maryland falling in the middle. Weather and the ability to manage horses under specific conditions could play a critical role in the event, scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 26 on the rolling hills of Lexington, Ky.

Unlike some countries with larger, more centralized endurance teams that train together, the USA hopefuls are scattered from coast to coast. The final trial to be held in Danville, Ill., Aug. 10 will bring together some of the best 100 mile equine athletes, to not only access individuals, but to see how they perform together since a team medal is an important USA goal, as well as an individual medal.

Following that trial, 10-12 horse and rider pairs will move to Kentucky for more training. On Sept. 21, five horses and five riders, and one alternate horse, will be chosen to compete for the United States in the 2010 WEG games.

WEG 2010: International Equestrian Festival is "Celebrating the Equine Spirit"

Horse Capital Productions' Festival to be prominently
featured in Lexington parade 
 
Lexington, KY (July 2, 2010) - Horse Capital Productions, producer of the International Equestrian Festival, will be the main feature in a parade to kick off the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.    The "Celebrating the Equine Spirit" parade, which is part of the city's Spotlight Lexington 17-days of free activities, takes place on Sunday, September 26 at 6:00 p.m. and will highlight a variety of breeds and horse industry associations. 
 
"It's time for Lexington to shine and substantiate why we're the 'Horse Capital of the World'," said Anne Buchanan, CEO and Founder of Horse Capital Productions.  "We're committed to ensuring the parade and the International Equestrian Festival dynamically promote equine entertainment, education and tourism."
 
The parade begins at Main Street and Midland Avenue, eventually traveling past the Lexington Center, where the International Equestrian Festival takes place, before ending at the corner of Vine Street and South Broadway.  Many breeds are already committed to participate in the parade of horses, including: the Akhal-Teke, one of the most ancient and rare breeds in the world; the Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse, a hardy horse developed in eastern Kentucky, known for its smooth gait and calm demeanor; the Haflinger, an Austrian sport horse; and the Tennessee Walking Horse, celebrated for its showy running walk.
 
Those interested in marching or riding in the parade can visit www.internationalequestrianfestival.com for more information or email expo@horsecapitalproductions.com for guidance.   Horse Capital Productions will direct inquiries to the appropriate contact at the Downtown Lexington Corporation responsible for coordinating and officiating the parade.
 

Canadian Nationals

News from the Canadian Nationals - Endurancecanada.ca

We don’t have many results, but here’s what we know so far (Thank you, Kim and Maura!):

Think there were about 70 riders overall in all divisions. The 50 was won by Valerie Kanavy, second place Elaine Steele, 3rd Lynda Byrne. Team Ontario finished two teams in the 50, Team Quebec did not finish a team, but had three riders complete. Manitoba finished all 3 riders - congratulations Prue, Aime and Jessica!

Bob Gielen won the 75 - now he can sit back, relax and celebrate his birthday! Congratulations, Bob, and Happy Day! There were 9 entered in the FEI 75. Haven’t heard many 100 mile results yet, but know that Gail Jewell, Carol Steiner, Yvette Vinton, Tom Paleczny finished - sorry, don’t know anything else.

One foreign rider came off quite hard - she is from Namibia and was riding one of Darolyn Butler’s horses. Horse vetted through, but the rider did not and was sent to hospital to be checked for neck injury.

The day has been absolutely glorious... clear skies, low humidity, temps around 18C. The trail is excellent. Esau and his crew put on a fabulous event. How will anyone ever top this location (the Girl Guide Camp near New Lowell). Real showers and toilets and so much space!!!

More as soon as we know...

***
More News from the Canadian Nationals

Race day was going very well, temp was perfect, humidity down, but results at vet stops were telling a different story.

40 started the 100, only 19 finished, in the FEI International competition 24 starters, had only 9 finish. Mostly lame but one Metabolic that sadly turned into a fatality at the Guelph clinic shortly after midnite.

Apache and Jolly Holliday pulled at 87.5 miles and that closed the opportunity for Weg for J. H. A muscle cramp the culprit, Apache was lame, both are sound this AM. Diamond Reo and Gail finished with mission accomplished in 9 th overall and 2nd in those qualified as entry into the Canadian National Championship. So she has a silver medal as well as a black eye a gift from Reo in a little trail encounter. Reo finished in good time and is now qualified to go to Weg as an alternate with Gail. So we move to plans for Weg.

Elroy Karius

Auburn, California - Endurance Capital of the World

Placercountyca.wordpress.com - Full Article

Posted on July 2, 2010 by placercountyca

Since 2003, Auburn in California has held the title of “Endurance Capital of the World”. This is because Auburn’s picture-esque landscape translates into one of the world’s toughest triathlon competitions. Auburn is situated near the Sierra Nevada mountain range and the Tahoe national park. This provides spectacular terrain ranging from rivers and lakes to hills and mountains, perfect for a this kind of competition. In case you are unfamiliar with a triathlon, it is a long distance multi-sport race that consists of swimming, cycling and running. It can vary in length and has variations with only two of the sports included. The most famous variation is the Ironman competition, which covers an unbelievable 4km of swimming, 180km bike ride and a 42km run...

The Tevis Cup

This exciting endurance race has been held annually since 1955 and is competed on horseback. The course is a staggering 100 miles, has a 24-hour time limit and covers the diverse Sierra mountain trails...

Read more here:
http://placercountyca.wordpress.com/2010/07/02/auburn-endurance-capital-of-the-world/

http://www.sunshinecoastdaily.com.au/story/2010/07/03/a-long-ride-but-it-was-worth-it/
Anne-Louise Brown | 3rd July 2010

photo by Geoff Potterna - HORSEMAN: David Anderson, 12, from Belli, and his horse Ashwind were first across the line in the 160km Tom Quilty Gold Cup.
WHEN David Anderson was a little boy he struggled to fit in because he was tongue-tied and mildly deaf.

But his parents had a plan. To give their little boy a confidence boost they put him on a horse.

David, now 12, has never looked back.

Last week the Cooroy State School student and his mare, Ashwind, were first across the line in Australia’s most prestigious equestrian marathon, the 160km Tom Quilty Gold Cup, held this year at Manilla in New South Wales. They completed the course in just over eight hours.

“When Ashwind and I ride together we know what the other is thinking. She’s an amazing horse,” David said.

“It was so exciting to get across the line first because I’ve been wanting to do the Tom Quilty for years, but you have to be 12 to compete.”

David said he had been inspired to get serious about riding after watching his big sister, Terri, compete.

“When I watched her I used to get so excited and soon I was totally addicted to horse riding,” he said.

“My aim is to be a vet that specialises in horses or a farrier. I want to live in Dubai where endurance horse racing started and work for a sheik.”

David’s mum, Sharon Cogbill, said her son was determined and focused on attaining his goals.

She said many people did not realise he was only 12.

“The only thing that gives it away is his size, because when David speaks about riding he’s so grown up,” Ms Cogbill said.

“He took to riding really naturally and was riding by himself at the age of five.

“David competed in his first endurance event when he was eight and by the age of nine was winning 320km races.”

Ironically, David almost missed out on competing in the Tom Quilty.

His father suffers heart problems and had to stop work and, to get David there, the family had to sell one of its 14 horses.

“There was no way we could let David miss out on it. Doing the Tom Quilty has been his dream for so long,” Ms Cogbill said.

“David’s career as a horseman is just starting, but I have no doubt he’s going to be a success.”

World Equestrian Games Preview

Thehorse.com - Full Article

by: Jennifer O. Bryant
July 01 2010, Article # 16603

Excitement mounts for the biggest-ever equestrian competition on U.S. soil.

Think of the biggest sporting events in the United States, and which ones come to mind? The Super Bowl, of course. The Kentucky Derby. A handful of mega-competitions, such as the two-week-long tennis U.S. Open. Two months from now, for the first time in history, the United States will host a 16-day sporting extravaganza that will approach the U.S. Open (which drew 700,000-plus spectators in 2009) in attendance size. It will command more than six hours of network television airtime, and it will bring together athletes from 60 nations.

It's the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games (WEG), and the eight-discipline equestrian world championships kick off Sept. 25 on the pastoral grounds of the Kentucky Horse Park, near Lexington.

The World Games 2010 Foundation, the Lexington-based organizer, anticipates selling 600,000 reserved tickets. The Commonwealth of Kentucky has been building arenas and stabling, expanding infrastructure, widening roads, and more since 2005, when the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), the international governing body of equestrian sport, awarded the 2010 WEG to Lexington. In return, Kentucky hopes to realize the projected $150-plus-million influx of visitor dollars...

Read more here:
http://www.thehorse.com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=16603

Belgium: 2010 Arville

Belgium: 2010 Arville


June 27 2010

The first 80 km National endurance ride took place at Arville, Belgium, at the same time as a 3-day event international.

Organized by international endurance rider Leonard Liesens, it attracted 66 starters.

Riders were very fortunate to compete in this wonderful venue, a park with grassland and forest of some 2000 hectares, a 17th century castle, Chateau d'Arville, with a village of gourmet food, belgian beers and many tackstores and others. Several attractions were at the venue, such as tree climbing, draft horses work performance, and carriage promenades.

"Finally the 'cohabitation'  with the international 3-days event was a success. Endurance made a good display, just beside the showjumping field," Liesens said. The ride was very technical, many ups and downs. "On the 30km loop they climbed for 900 meters. So in total on the 80km, 900x2+400= 2200 meters elevation difference. It was very warm - 34*C at the hottest part of the day - but no horse has been put at risk, none have been treated, no real metabolic elimination. The completion rate was very good - 70%. BRAVO to riders who as true 'horsemen' run their horses in these extreme conditions."

Following the style of Steph Teeter, who organizes endurance rides in Idaho, USA, Liesens marked trails by ribbons, and had prizes for many different categories: Turtle prizes for each category (the new endurance book of Leonard Liesens - "Le Livre d'un Cavalier Pour les Cavaliers"), Poulidor prizes (Poulidor is the traditional second of the Tour de France, he was second behind Anquetil then Merckx for many years), nicest couple horse/rider, nicest tack, fair-play prize, best horse showing in front of the vets, etc.
 
"We plan a CEI* for next year hoping to attract some French riders from the North," Liesens said. Perhaps some foreigners from overseas will also join the riders for this unique and beautiful ride.


Photos by Caroll Gatelier here:
http://www.endurance-belgium.com/photos/arville10/index.html



Photos by Leonard Liesens here:
http://www.endurance-belgium.com/photos/arville10ll/index.html


and recap here:
http://www.endurance-belgium.com/navigation/index.htm

New Zealand: Star endurance team ready to tackle financial hurdles

Times-age.co.nz - Full Article

Gary Caffell | 30th June 2010

Ace Masterton endurance rider Jenny Champion has a mountain to climb before she can represent New Zealand at the World Equestrian Games to be held in Kentucky in the United States from September 25 to October 10.

Champion needs $50,000 to enable both herself and her star charge, Freckles, to make the return trip and she has just over two months to meet that financial commitment.
Not surprisingly then, Champion's immediate focus is on bringing her mightily impressive CV up to date so she can present it to the various organisations and business houses from which sponsorship could possibly be obtained.

And she is also planning how any sponsors coming on board can be rewarded for their generosity, like having their names or logos embossed on a rug which will be worn by Freckles or painted on to the truck which usually transports the classy 15-year-old mare...

Read more here:
http://www.times-age.co.nz/sport/news/star-endurance-team-ready-to-tackle-financial-hurd/3916692/

Canadian Endurance Riders Excel in North American FEI Events

Horse-canada.com
June 30, 2010

Ottawa, ON— Following The Kentucky Cup — the pre-ride for the World Equestrian Games (WEG) — Canadian endurance horses and riders have travelled thousands of miles, in pursuit of their dream to qualify and compete for Canada, either in the World Equestrian Games this September or in future major international events. In FEI competitions from all over North America, Canadian riders and their amazing equine partners have excelled, building on their already-enviable ride records. In addition to the FEI events, these riders have actively participated in open rides as well with outstanding results.

• Elroy Karius & Jolly Holiday: FEI 2* 75 miles (Williston, FL) — sixth place
• Gail Jewell & A Salisbury Rose: FEI 3* 100 miles (Inyokern, CA) — fourth place
• Carol Steiner & Jumpin’ Jax: FEI 1* 100 miles (Ocala, FL) — third place; FEI 3* 100 (Decatar, TX) – seventh place
• Carol Steiner & Merlin FEI 3* (Moriston, FL) — seventh place
• Dessia Miller & Parker AES: FEI 2* 75 miles (Asheville, NC) — second place
• Monique Vincent on MJL Olivia: FEI 1* 50 miles (Decatur, TX)—First place
• Lee Hutten & Diamond Reo: FEI 1* 75 mile (Morrison, FL)
• Ruth Sturley & Futurystic: FEI 1* 50 miles (Asheville, NC) —first place
• Yvette Vinton & Jal Bas Kalid: FEI 1* 50 miles (Ocala, FL) — 10th place
• Yvette Vinton & Tesse FEI 3* 100 miles (Williston, FL) — 20th place
• Yvette Vinton & JS Sedona FEI 1* 50 miles (Williston, FL) — first place

Most recent successes for our elite riders have been at competitions at Horseshoe Lake, AB, held May 21, 2010, and Fort Howes, MT, held June 12, 2010. Those results include
• Terre O’Brennan & Koszaar: FEI 3* 100 miles (Alberta) — first place
• Ariel MacLeod & Driftwoods Zorro : FEI 3* 100 miles (Alberta) — third place and Best Condition award
• Kathy Irvine & Nightwind Savannah: FEI 3* 100 miles (Alberta) — second place; FEI 2* 75 miles (Montana) — third place and Best Condition award
• Leanna Marchant & Samsons Fire: FEI 2* 75miles (Alberta) —first place and Best Condition award; FEI 2* 75 miles (Montana) — second place
• Christy Janzen & Sakic: FEI 2* 75 mile (Alberta) — second place
• Karen Badger & Pilgrim: FEI 2* 75 mile (Alberta) —third place
• Caroline Williams & Diamond Reo: FEI 2* (Alberta)— fourth place
• Tara MacLeod & Sea Biscuit: FEI 1* (Alberta)— first place
• Mary-Ann Dorchester & SH Special Edition: FEI1* (Alberta) — second place
• Amy Hoffman & Jr’s Last Chance: FEI 1* (Alberta) — third place
• Lee Hutton & KD Colonel: FEI 2* 75 miles (Montana) — third place and Best Condition award
• Gail Jewell, DVM & Jolly Holiday: FEI 3* 100 Miles (Alberta) — fourth place
• Monique Vincent on MJL Olivia: FEI 2* 50 miles (Montana) — fifth place

The next and final challenge for these riders hoping for a berth on the 2010 WEG Team will be the 2010 Canadian Distance Championship in New Lowell, ON, on July 1, 2010. Following the Championship, the 2010 WEG squad will be named.

“The Canadian Championship will be an opportunity to prove our horses’ capabilities and may well change the WEG rankings,” said Elroy Karius from Kelowna, BC, who is currently sitting number one in the WEG rankings. “There are some very excellent horse and rider teams coming on strong.”

The Endurance Championship will include FEI 1*, 2* and 3* events, with Young Riders’ divisions. The majority of the WEG-nominated riders from Eastern Canada, as well as a few from the West, will compete under the watchful eyes of several of the Team officials: Kay Melvin, Chef d’équipe; Maura Leahy, Assistant Chef; Stan Alkemade, Assistant Team Veterinarian; and Kim Woolley, Team Coach.

“Personally, I’m finding it exciting as we have so many riders and horses trying out for a spot on the team, which is something our Canadian team has lacked in the past due to cost of sending horses overseas,” said Melvin. “Having this WEG on our doorstep has definitely changed how our riders have planned their competitions in this past couple of years. It has opened up opportunities for some who might not have considered competing at this level before.”

France: 2010 Corlay

CORLAY 2010 - June 18-20, 2010


CEI*** 160 km
33 starters, 24 finishers

1. Gregoire Tilquin - Mario De Plouvorn - 17.223 km/h
2. Pierre Fleury - Miraj - 17.215 km/h
3. Andrea Pulicani - Spiga - 16.955 km/h

Images by Brigitte Huard can be seen here:
http://www.brigitte-huard.com/19_06_10_Corlay_160km--729--21-fr-f-p160-n1.html



CEI*** 130 km
22 starters, 20 finishers

1. Laetitia Goncalves - Nikel Kermorvan - 16.249 km/h
2. Emmanuelle Rionde - Naffa De Lap - 15.948 km/h
3. Cecile Miletto Mosti - Olympe De Crouz - 15.874 km/h

Images by Brigitte Huard can be seen here:
http://www.brigitte-huard.com/18_06_10_Corlay_130km--728--21-en-f.html



CEI* 110 km
30 starters, 26 finishers

1. Philippe Tomas - Pacha De Barancon - 18.067 km/h
2. Enora Boulenger - Skadur - 18.041 km/h
3. Klervi Lefevre - Tahira El Numizki - 17.944 km/h

Images by Brigitte Huard can be seen here:
http://www.brigitte-huard.com/20_06_10_Corlay_90___110km--730--21-en-f.html

Complete results here:
http://www.france-endurance.net/default.aspx

2010 WEG: Spectator Parking, Transportation Options Set for Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games

DATE: June 23, 2010

LEXINGTON, KY—93 Days to Go—Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games spectators will have a variety of parking and transportation options, including hotel shuttles and on-site parking, for the 16 days of the event.

With the recent availability of property adjacent to the Kentucky Horse Park, parking for 10,000 vehicles each day is now possible on-site. Parking will be $20 per vehicle with cash only accepted upon entry. A limited number of premium parking spaces near the spectator entry, with pass-out parking privileges, are also available for $100 per day at www.alltechfeigames.com.

Nine hotel shuttle routes will be implemented for Games spectators, providing a door-to-door transportation service for selected hotels. Spectators who have arranged accommodations through the Games Housing Bureau for the selected hotels, located in Lexington, Georgetown and Frankfort, will be emailed a direct link on or before July 6 with the opportunity to pre-purchase hotel shuttle wristbands online for $5 before August 1. After August 1, the shuttle wristbands will be $10 for Housing Bureau guests. During the Games, wristbands can be purchased for $15, subject to availability. Wristbands are date specific and valid for one day’s round trip transport to the Kentucky Horse Park and are non-transferable. A list of hotels on the shuttle routes will be available on the Spectator Information page of the Games website by July 6.

Buses equipped with ADA seating will be operating on all hotel shuttle systems, and mobility shuttles will be stationed in the on-site parking lots for those who need assistance from designated ADA parking areas.

In addition, taxi cabs and Gold Shield Car Services will be available to transport spectators to the main entrance of the Games at the Kentucky Horse Park. LexTran, the City of Lexington’s public transportation system, will also have roundtrip bus service to the Kentucky Horse Park for $5 per passenger, with parking near Lextran’s Vine Street terminal in downtown Lexington.

“We feel these parking and transportation options provide maximum flexibility and value for our spectators,” said Games CEO Jamie Link. “We expect thousands of people will visit the park each day and our goal is that everyone arrives in a safe and efficient manner, ready to enjoy a great day at the Games.”

Detailed information on transportation services, including directions to on-site parking, hotel shuttle routes, and information for local commuters whose daily routes may be impacted by event traffic will be available soon at www.alltechfeigames.com.

67-year-old rides 160km to finish Quilty Cup

http://www.tenterfieldstar.com.au
CHRIS WALKER
30 Jun, 2010 11:14 AM

ABOUT 300 riders, including four from Tenterfield, set off at midday on Friday to start the 2010 Tom Quilty 160km endurance ride.

Regarded as the Melbourne Cup of endurance rides, the Quilty was this year held in Manilla.

Tenterfield grandmother Jackie Parsons, aged 67, successfully completed the ride on Dunwingi Nova in her first attempt.

Mrs Parsons’ husband Dennis was there to offer support, as was her daughter who flew from Singapore for the prestigious event.

The ride completed a long-held dream for Mrs Parsons, but it wasn’t easy, she said.

“My horse seems a lot less tired than I am, and I’ll bet he doesn’t hurt in as many places as I do,” she said.

Tenterfield club members were also there to help out, as was the horse’s owner Hal Archer.

Rain before daylight meant dramatically changed conditions, making the track slippery and boggy in places. The track was broken up into five legs, with strict veterinary checks at each leg ruling out an increasing number of horses. Under endurance riding rules, no horse is allowed to continue if they are considered in any way unfit.

Mrs Parsons cut more than three hours off her qualifying time, but she wasn’t the only success in the race.

Hannah McQueen also managed to finish, in the process earning a coveted Quilty buckle.

Bad luck and the slippery conditions prevented Tenterfield’s other two riders, Philippa Lillyman and Dylan Keys, from finishing, as they joined many others in being ‘vetted out’.

Only 120 of the 300 riders that set off at midnight managed to finish the demanding ride.

The ride was won for the second year straight by Queensland rider Brook Sample, who finished in just eight and a half hours.

[Full article ... at http://www.tenterfieldstar.com.au/news/local/sport/general/67yearold-rides-160km-to-finish-quilty-cup/1871622.aspx]

Costa Rica: Zamora and Salazar to Represent Country in Endurance in WEG 2010

June 28 2010

Diego Zamora and Martin Salazar classified June 19 to represent Costa Rica in the WEG 2010, Kentucky USA

Martin ran, in Uruguay with Hasan 160 km and Diego in Guatemala 120 km. To classify, both have met with the races required by the FEI and the Organizing Committee of WEG 2010 (4 120 km/h events and 1 160 km event at 13 km/h or more and with the same horse that will then compete in the WEG 2010.)

The competition in Uruguay was developed with a very cold temperature of 8 to 12 ºc and a fairly high humidity of 80% on a very flat terrain as usual in Uruguay. Martin competed at 17.1 km/h against 11 riders and came 4th to goal after 160 km since the others were eliminated by the judges and Uruguayan veterinarians.

Diego Zamora competed in Tecpán Guatemala at a very favorable temperature and managed to reach the target smoothly at 14.2 km/hour.

The WEG in Kentucky will be the day 26 September and it is expecting the participation of 150 horses and 32 countries. Costa Rica, in 2008, also participated with two riders in Malaysia.

The Equestrian Federation International (FEI) requires riders: 4 120 km competitions at 10 Km/h average minimum and one 160 km competition at 13 km/hr with the same horse.
 
How classified Martín and Diego:...
Diego Zamora with 5 events.
1-Guatemala 160 km... 2008
2-Chapernal C.Rica 160 km.... 2008
3 Chomes CR 120 km... 2010
4-Chomes CR 160 km... 2010 with the Samurai horse ran 14, 2 km/h average
5-Guatemala 120 km... 2010
 
Martín Salazar 5 events
 
1-Guatemala 120 km... 2010
2-Chomes C.Rica 120 km.... 2010
3-Uruguay 120 km... 2010
4-Guatemala 120 km... 2010
5-Uruguay 160 km... 2010 with Hasan horse ran 17.1 km/h average.
 
Photos of Costa Rican endurance can be seen here:
http://picasaweb.google.com/ridecamp/CostaRicaEndurance62910#

Mongol Derby: The World's Greatest Horse Race

hcnonline.com
By Tana Ross
Updated: 06.24.10

Billed as the “Greatest Horse Race in the World” and the “Longest Horse Race in the world,” the Mongol Derby is not a challenge just any horse rider is willing to take on.

Indeed, the 1,000 kilometer (more than 630 miles) endurance race over the Mongolian steppe — a diverse, often unforgiving terrain that includes forest, mountains and desert — is so challenging that organizers of the race provide three days of training for the small group of international competitors who qualified to be in the race.

A true adventurist, 33-year-old Justin Nelzen, a-Pinehurst-farrier- turned-endurance athlete, is one of 16 representing five counties who qualified for the second annual derby to start Aug. 7. In fact he is one of the first three Americans ever selected for the 10-day equestrian event. And, while several might be happy just to finish the race, Nelzen’s standard is set a bit higher.

“My goal is not just to complete the race, but to win it,” he said.

With only three years of endurance horse racing under his belt, some might think Nelzen is a risky bet, but his record says otherwise. Not only has the 5-foot, 8-inch, 158-pound, athlete competed and won in a variety of competitions since college, including martial arts, triathlons and marathon running, but his list of wins with his own Arabians in endurance horse racing has garnered the attention of experts in the sport.

“Justin is very accomplished,” Rhita McNair of McNair Internationale, who has trained horses for more than 40 years, said. “I am very impressed with his skills as a rider and as a trainer. He took a mare he bought from me all the way to a world champion.”

Last year, Nelzen also swept first, second and third places in the Hog Scramble, a 30-mile endurance race in Huntsville, on horses he owns and trained. His 7-year-old daughter, Trinity, placed first.

“I didn’t know anything other than to train my horses like I trained myself,” he said. “Someone asked me before my first race what I expected. I told them I expected to win, and I did. I didn’t know any better at the time.”

Excited at just the thought of Nelzen winning the derby, McNair said Justin is very good at reading horses, a skill that is sure to pay off when he selects his Mongolian mounts for the derby.

Longest race is on


Averaging 10 horse endurance races a year Nelzen most recently rode for the Al Kamda royal family in the desert of Dubai, UAE, where he placed fourth in a 100-mile race on an Arabian he had never ridden. But the Mongol Derby is more than 630 miles, tracing one of the 13th century routes Genghis Khan’s supply and communications carriers used — an ancient pony express. Will Nelzen’s experience be enough to carry him over the finish line? Will it be enough to give him the win? He definitely thinks so.

“Last year’s winner finished the race in eight days, I am hoping to do the same or better,” Nelzen said. “But my concerns are not really about my abilities — the Marine Corps trained me well — as much as they are about what I don’t know.”

On the “don’t know” list are sleep, environment and the 25 horses Nelzen will be given to ride. The tradition of Khan’s massive network of horse stations, called the Morin Urtuus, will be implemented for the race. Hosting Mongolian families offering a fresh mount along with a meal of mutton and mare’s milk will be identified every 30 miles or so along the yet-to-be-announced derby route. Because contestants may ride from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. there is no guarantee Nelzen will be at a host family’s yurt at the end of each day.

“If I sleep out, the major concern is wolves and feral dogs and I understand there are horse thieves who would like to steel our mounts,” he said. “The temperature is also a factor. While it gets to upper 80s and 90s during the day, it falls into the 40s at night.”

If the countryside and route don’t offer enough challenge and history then the horses supplied for the derby certainly do. Decedents of the horses that gave Khan and his warriors superior advantage over their enemies and helped establish the Mongol Empire, make up the pool of more than 200 horses the derby supplies.

“This is a land where horses outnumber people seven to one,” Nelzen said. “They are practically worshiped by the people there.”

Riders will get a fresh mount at each station choosing from a collection of the Mongolian horses on a first-come, first-served basis.

“I hope I’ll get there first, have a good selection and be able to choose a good horse,” Nelzen said.

Imagine sizing up a 13-hand, almost pony-sized horse in minutes considering size, confirmation, overall health and disposition — all this without a test drive. Described as being tougher than Rambo on steroids, the small native mounts are a far different ride than the floating Arabians. The Mongolian horses are tightly coupled with eight speeds rather than the familiar four gaits of most horses. While Nelzen is confident of his riding skills, he prays the steeds he rides will be as fast as the Arabians he raises.

Nelzen has collected more than $2,500 for his place in the Mongol Derby. His total expenses top $15,200 including a required charity donation of $1,500. He is accepting donations on his website through PayPal at, www.teamequipro.com.

To learn more about the Mongol Derby and to read updates during the race visit, http://mongolderby.theadventurist.com.

More at ...http://www.hcnonline.com/articles/2010/06/25/greater_houston_weekly/top_of_the_week/0623_mongolian_derby.txt

Australia: Tom Quilty Gold Cup 2011 – STOP PRESS!

Monday June 21 2010

Due to unforeseen circumstances, the SA Tom Quilty committee announces a change of venue and date for the 2011 Tom Quilty Gold Cup. The event, now known as the Barossa Ranges Tom Quilty Gold Cup will provide a challenging event for participants on a new course. There will be an away check point and riders will experience changing terrain as the course traverses Mt Crawford State forest, vineyards and pastures. The second and potentially most challenging leg will be through pine forests, then onto private land owned by the Ross family (by kind permission).

The ride base will be at Mt Pleasant which hosts annually a large agricultural show in addition to many livestock and horse events. One of the best scenic routes in our State runs through Mount Pleasant linking Adelaide with the Barossa via the rich pastoral lands, forestry and the wine areas of Springton and Eden Valley close to Mt. Pleasant.

Land was first purchased for forestry at Mount Crawford in 1909. Plantings commenced in 1914; two species of eucalypts (Narrow-leaved Ironbark and South Australian Blue gum) and two species of pine (Radiata and Maritime pine) which creates a fantastic horse riding environment. The current reserve area is in the region of 12,000 hectares.

Please note that the event will now start at midnight on Friday September 30th 2011 and continue through Saturday October 1st.

Changes to our website are being made and further announcements will follow as plans are finalised for the test event, the South Australian State Championships and FEI 1* featuring the Trans Tasman and Young Horse Qualifier (sponsored by Castlebar) which takes place later this year on October 8th – 10th. Please refer to the website www.satomquilty.com.au for the most up-to-date information as it becomes available.


Sarah Adams
Event Director
sadams@lindsaypark.com.au

Germany: Royal team riders dominate Championship

Gulf-daily-news.com

Sunday, June 27, 2010


BAHRAIN'S Royal Endurance Team claimed an impressive one-two yesterday in the 120-kilometre race in the CERA Endurance Challenge in Dillingen Town, Germany.

Ghazi Al Dosseri led compatriot Yousef Al Taher to the finish. They were separated by just a mere second as the hugely competitive ride came to a dramatic conclusion.

Al Dosseri, riding his horse Ganda Koy, registered a total ride time of six hours 55 minutes 18 seconds for first place. He was trailing Al Taher, riding Kango II, as they neared the end, but then managed to make a strong late push to pass his countryman before crossing the finish.

Both Al Dosseri and Al Taher were also the leaders heading into the fifth and final stage of the event.

Taking third place was Bettina von Ballmoos from Switzerland. Riding Swwann, von Ballmoos took the final podium place alongside the Bahraini victors after completing the event in 7:12:38. Fellow-Swiss Ralph Durler, on Ainhoa Tordidja, came fourth in 7:18:57.

The CERA Endurance Challenge is set to conclude today with the final events followed by the official awards presentation for the winners.

Al Dosseri's victory and Al Taher's runner-up finish added to the joy of another second-placed classification, won by Royal Endurance Team rider Jaffer Mirza in the 160-kim ride held on Friday.

Photos by Osama Mohammed here:
http://picasaweb.google.com/ridecamp/2010GermanChampionship62610?pli=1#

Great Britain: Abby claims Young Rider National Champion title

Thisiswesternmorningnews.co.uk

Friday, June 25, 2010, 10:00

Fourteen-year-old endurance rider Abby Chisholm, from Lydford, is the new Young Rider National Champion. She successfully completed the 80km (50-mile) class at Cirencester Park last Saturday. Abby was riding her 13.2 hh Arab cross Thoroughbred mare CFS Diana of Court. The new British National Champion is David Yeoman, from North Brewham in Somerset. He was riding 12-year-old Hazar, the Arab gelding which won three Endurance Rides in the South West last year. David has entered for the Boconnoc Ride on July 4 but this year will be riding Banko de Pibou.