The Saddle Club girls are participating in a new kind of horseback activity—endurance riding. They'll have to condition their horses and themselves for the grueling contest if they plan to make it across the finish line. But an annoying rider named Kristie keeps getting in the way. Carole, Stevie, and Lisa are pretty sure they can finish the competition. The question is: Can they endure Kristie?

Examining every aspect of the sport of endurance riding, from choosing the right horse to the ultimate achievement of racing over 100 miles, this work seeks to inform the complete newcomer as well as the dedicated competitor. Following the sport's motto "to compete is to win", the accent is on preparation and observation, with advice on the key aspects of conditioning, monitoring fitness levels, schooling and feeding. There are training schedules for varying levels of competition, and advice on the latest equipment for horse and rider. A chapter on preparation and fitness includes exercises to improve suppleness and equestrian skills. A chapter on the all-important role of the back-up crew is also included.

This information-packed international bestseller should be on every endurance and competitive trail rider's shelf. To spend hour after hour on the back of a horse is a dream come true for many riders. To ride for miles--25, 50, or even 100--on a fit horse, is an extremely satisfying experience, whether done in competition or just for pleasure. This thrill does not come easily however; it requires immense dedication from the rider and a lot of hard work from the horse. No other equestrian sports demand such a continuous training effort as do endurance and competitive distance riding. To reach the highest level of the sports--competing in a 100-mile ride--requires years of careful conditioning. Even a 25-mile ride demands close attention to every nuance of a horse's being--during the many miles of work beforehand and during the competition itself. It is the horse's welfare that must come above all else.

The first book about endurance riding written specifically for those beginning in the sport, this guide covers selection of horse and tack, training and conditioning and takes you through a complete ride day, including post ride day. There are plentiful anecdotes and a lively pace, along with over 100 images.

The sport of Endurance Riding was established in the UK in the 1960's and was controlled by various organisations until Endurance Great Britain was created in 2001 to govern the sport, from the grass route leisure rider to the international teams. There has not been a book published in the UK covering endurance since 1999 and the author, Karen David, wished to address this. The book is aimed at all levels of endurance rider from the first timer to the seasoned campaigner, with encouragement and advice given throughout. The chapters cover: a history of the sport up to the birth of Endurance Great Britain; how endurance is organised and how to progress through the various levels; selecting a suitable horse; how to begin competing; how to ride a successful endurance ride; feeding and nutrition; alternative therapies; shoeing; training; transporting the horse incorporating UK Legislation; equipment; competing and the support team necessary to help the combination achieve their potential.