ILDRA (Irish Long Distance Riding Association - 1990) is a long established Endurance Riding Organisation with representation throughout Ireland and is recognised by Horse Sport Ireland (HSI).

It organises a series of rides throughout Ireland. Most rides involve a Pleasure Ride for members and non-members, normally of about 8 miles, and a series of CTRs (Competitive Trail Rides) over a number of distances starting from 20 miles for members. Some events also feature ERs (Endurance Rides) - these normally start at 50 miles and are for experienced horses and riders only.

So what is Endurance Riding - perhaps it is useful to say what Endurance Riding isn't. It isn't a long pony trek, ambling through lanes, it isn't for the faint hearted, and it isn't for the rider who doesn't actually enjoy being in the saddle for long.

So what is it? It is a unique competitive challenge and a supreme sport for learning about equine fitness. Veterinary checks before and after competitive rides - and in the middle too for longer distances - ensure the best possible care is taken of your horse. Any problems can be picked up earlier rather than later.

You, the rider, learn more about the way your horse functions, with the importance of regulating your riding to suit conditions which will affect the way your horse behaves and how he presents to the vet. Key factors include:

• The terrain: is it hilly or flat, sandy or hard ground?
• The weather: is it cold, wet, foggy, or hot and sunny?
• The route: does it look to be difficult to follow on the map, or a more simple circular course?

ILDRA was founded in 1990 - 30+ years ago and we had great plans to celebrate this in 2020 but somehow a global pandemic just managed to get in the way. With the return of the St. Patrick's Coast ride this year and our Saturday night party, we have decided to roll it all into one big event.

• We will be thanking our landowners, sponsors and stewards
• Dishing out great prizes from the day
• Enjoying so some good wholesome food and maybe a beverage or two
• And Celebrating ILDRA's 30th + year anniversary (with cake)

So if you have ever ridden at ILDRA rides over the last 30 years why not come along and join us to help celebrate - you don't need to be a member - all welcome.

Do you know someone who used to ride with ILDRA and would like to come back and meet some old friends again - please make sure they know about this event. You will need to book in advance (details to follow) but for now, save the date - Sat. 3rd September.

We plan to have some of the original founding members and riders from the early 90s at the event and hope that many others who have had fun and enjoyment over the years will come along and join us too.

If you are riding this year please try and arrange it so you can attend. Either come back again after the ride or alternatively stable and camp or stay in a local hotel or B&B.

Make a weekend out of it. You won't regret it.