Endurance Riding Information

Endurance n. the ability or strength to continue or last despite fatigue, stress or other adverse conditions.

 A Brief Overview...

Endurance riding is an equestrian sport that pits man and horse against not only other riders in the race but also nature and ultimately, themselves. Originally evolved from the 300 mile stamina test rides developed by the United States Cavalry, endurance riding and racing is now an FEI internationally recognized sport that boasts thousands of participants from around the globe.

Endurance rides in the United States are typically 50 to 100 miles in length, usually held over a variety of terrain. Shorter Limited Distance (LD) rides may only cover 25 miles and Competitive Trail Rides (CTR) will cover 13 to 35 miles per day.  Whatever the length, the primary focus for rider and horse is to finish fit and sound...and hopefully in 1st place too!

Endurance rides in the US are sanctioned by the AERC (link) which keeps track of ride points and issues year-end awards to top horses and riders.  Many regional clubs (such as the MNDRA) also give out awards and host special functions for their members.

Unlike the rigid parameters set by other equestrian disciplines, endurance riding allows horse and rider to explore what works best for them.  Equipment is non-standardized, with everything from roping saddles to dressage saddles seen on the trail. And while purebred Arabians dominate the upper levels of the sport, all breeds are welcome as well as all ages of riders.  It is truly a sport the whole family can enjoy!  Camaraderie among the riders is the standard rather than the exception!

This range of ride levels allows participants to both enjoy fun rides with friends and family and also to strive for the highest goals. As of 2006, Endurance Racing ranked behind only Show Jumping and Eventing as the largest Equestrian Sport worldwide. Popularity continues to rise and horse men and women around the world recognize the challenge, fun and rewards that only Endurance Racing can provide to horse and rider.

Endurance Riding at Ahi Lio Arabians

The owner of Ahi Lio Arabians, Lisa Simpson, has been involved with endurance riding and racing for nearly 2 decades. Trainer and rider of the 2002 Minnesota Endurance Race Champion, KC Sashet, she brings her knowledge and experience of the sport to every aspect of Ahi Lio Arabians—from the careful selection of bloodlines to produce a superior endurance athlete to the care, training and feeding that goes into the final development of a champion.

Each and every horse bred by Ahi Lio Arabians is produced with endurance racing and riding in mind.  Whether you are a “newbie” to the sport or an old pro looking for a future National Champion, we are striving to produce a sound, sane and yet beautiful mount for you.  Not only are we breeders, but we are competitors as well.  We have “been there” and “done that” and we are always ready to lend a helping hand.  Ahi Lio Arabians is available to answer any questions you may have about endurance riding and to help you win at any level of the sport.  Please give us a call today and see what new horizons are in store for you!