What is a Competitive Trail Riding?
Competitive Trail Riding measures the fitness of a horse as they travel over a marked trail of 20 to 120 miles. Horses are examined thoroughly before, on trail and after finishing, by qualified judges and veterinarians. The events are strictly timed and penalties are given for finishing too early or too late. Penalties are also given for soreness, fluid in legs, fatigue, and a elevated Pulse & Respiration. Horses are judged by how quickly their heart rates drop and other physical and metabolic measurements. The horses who show the highest level of physical fitness win. What Is the Goal? The goal is to condition your horse to the highest level of fitness and take care of it so that the horse completes the ride with as little stress as possible.
