Biggenden Endurance Riders Association
I met with Sue Sutcliffe, President of Biggenden Endurance Riders Association, a family club open to riders of all ages & abilities.
Endurance riding in Australia includes 5km Tiny Tots Rides, 10km and 20km Introductory Rides, 40 to 60km Intermediate Rides, and Endurance Rides start at 80km to 160km in one day. There are also multi-day Marathon Rides up to 400km or more over consecutive days.
Sue explains that the trails vary in lengths & are very well marked with arrows every 100m or so. Events are run with safety in mind & a large number of volunteers manning private property gates, and route markers.
The main event for the endurance riders is the Annual Endurance Ride hosted by the Biggenden group, held in September. This event attracts riders and spectators from as far north as Mackay, and equally as far south.
There are events across Australia to tickle your endurance ride fancy, start with checking out the Queensland Endurance Riders Association to find outmore.
Living with disability or injury may present more challenges but this is a sport that can be inclusive. The community is extremely supportive & motivational to help riders achieve their goals. This is a sport where you are pushing through your own pain, caring for your horse & the success comes from completing the event.
When I ride in the upcoming Biggenden Charity Endurance Ride, date to be confirmed, anticipated around April, I will not be the first person with Multiple Sclerosis or personal challenges to ride. I have been welcomed & encouraged to have a go. For me the community is a perfect match for my have a go attitude.
Keep an eye on what is happening in Biggenden in August & September, with some country events showcasing rural life & horsemanship.
Thank you Biggenden Endurance Riders Association & Sue Sutcliffe for supporting my MS Fundraiser "100Ks To Utopia", which essentially is a 100km horse trail ride over 4 days.
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