Community & Business
3 August, 2024
Equestrians take on 400km trek
A CROSS country for horses has been taking off on the Tablelands, with the Far North Endurance Riders Association hosting 400km endurance rides.
Endurance riding is a sport that tests the stamina, speed, and endurance of both horse and rider as they traverse natural terrains, including trails, roads, and open fields.
Throughout the race, horses must undergo regular veterinary checks before, during, and after the event to ensure they are fit to continue.
Recently, Kristie Sheehan and Briony Ledingham took on the marathon event on their purebred Arab horses, riding 80km and walking 40km for five days.
Another 25 riders from as all over Queensland also competed in shorter courses.
Participants passed by old Cobb & Co mining country, traversed mountain ranges with and descended into hidden valleys and creeks all to make it to the finish line.
FNERA Secretary Clare Zagata said the event was a great success and she hoped more people would get involved in the sport.
“You really bond with the horse through that time and it is great for fitness,” she said.
“We have kids as young as five out there trying it out and heaps of people competing.
“It is something for the whole family – lots of people really come for the campfire and stories!”
The next multiday event is in the next school holidays on the Cordillera Trail. For details on how to get involved, email fnera@outlook.com or visit www.fnera.asn.au/forms
