Taking Horse Riding to the Next Level - New 'Introduction to Endurance' Tour Launched

June 25, 2009 - PRLog -- BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA – Elia Tours has launched a new ‘Introduction to Endurance’ tour in the Sunshine Coast hinterland commencing in August 2009.

The tour is aimed at those with some horse riding experience who would like to learn more about and get involved in the sport of Endurance Riding.  

Danni Cullen, Managing Director of Elia Tours, clarifies the level of experience required. ‘We are not looking for ex-showjumpers or jockeys,’ she says, ‘but most riders who are comfortable with controlling a horse when trail riding would be able to take part. It’s a good opportunity for those who regularly take part on our weekend tours to progress to the next level of horse riding.’

The tour includes a 2 hour evening seminar in Brisbane where the riders learn about the rules and regulations of the sport, as well as the format of the event, and hints and tips about riding in endurance.

But the main event takes part on 28/29 August when riders will participate in a 40km ride as part of the annual ‘Imbil Sparkler’ endurance event. As well as riding, the participants will get involved in the horse care aspects of the race, and will get their horse through the entire process from the first to the last vet check.

Endurance riding was introduced to Australia in 1966 by the infamous R.M. Williams. Based on the 100 mile Tewis Cup in the USA, the first Australian Race – The Tom Quilty Gold Cup – attracted just 26 riders to participate in the 160km challenge.

Today The Quilty can attract well over 200 riders and is considered the National Championship, moving from state to state each year. State championships and other local races occur on a weekly basis throughout the season which runs from February to October – the Imbil Sparkler is a firm favourite in the South-East Queensland calendar.

Race lengths start at 40km and can extend to over and above 320km. The focus is on good horsemanship, and vet checks are performed at regular intervals (normally every 40km) throughout the ride to ensure that the horse is still in good condition.

For more information, or to secure your place on the tour, contact Elia Tours at info@eliatours.com

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