The Borders 50

                            Saturday, 6th July 2024

                   A CHALLENGING 50 MILE LONG DISTANCE HORSE RIDE IN THE CHEVIOT HILLS

                                                    'To finish is to win'

THE CHALLENGE

This ride challenges the rider’s and horse’s fitness in remote hill country in the Cheviot Hills, which make up the borderlands between England and Scotland.  In addition it challenges the rider’s ability to look after themselves, as there is no enroute crewing allowed.     To follow the route  correctly riders are encouraged to prepare well and ensure their map reading skills are sufficient to cope.  Suitable clothing for all weather conditions must be worn and a spare "shoof boot" or similar carried as a farrier may not be available en-route.Vet halts will be managed similar to national endurance organisations .only 1 helper allowed in vet halts.  Route details will be sent in a GPX file .The route will only be marked at points of uncertainty.

Overall winner will be crowned on 7th July , after completing a Best Condition vetting on Sunday , this together with all vettings during the ride and finishing place will determine the Winner and placings .

Target time to complete the ride is 12 hours ( inc 2 vet halts) although changes may be made dependent on weather , route changes etc

ELIGIBILITY AND QUALIFICATION CRITERIA

Entries will be considered from riders and horses that have successfully completed rides of 40 miles (60km) or above within a day, preferably, but not necessarily, as a combination.  Completion of a one day 60km ride  is recommended, which will help to provide proof of riders and horses ability.  These rides will have taken place organised by an established endurance association. 

Entries will also be encouraged from any horse /rider combination who are not affiliated to any endurance association, if they can prove they have substantial long distance riding experience,over rough undulating terrain .As with most rules, there can  be exceptions, so if you consider that you may be one of them please contact us.

Horses must be a minimum of 5 years of age on 1 January 2024. 

Riders under the age of 18 years of age will only be considered if accompanied by   a  suitably qualified adult at all times out on the course. 

Compliance with the entry criteria does not guarantee acceptance to the ride. The number of entries will be limited.  Confirmation of your accepted entry will be sent to you after being reviewed by the organising panel, which includes an experienced endurance vet. Their decision regarding entry will be final.