You can do all this and more with us at ILDRA (Irish Long Distance Riding Association). Our riders enjoy access to many private estates, forestry and other land not normally open to the public and are open to both members and non-members (although entries are pre-booked, online only)
click here for all the info on this offer and hints on how to get started...
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:
ILDRA run charity ride at Clandeboy Estate, Bangor, C Down in aid of Huntington's Disease Association NIread more
Would you like to...
Sports NI are very keen to work with all those involved in all aspects of equestrian disciplines both in Northern Ireland and in the Republic of Ireland and to help with this a survey has been compiled by the members of the Equestrian Sports Forum.read more