Endurance Riding: News

Canada: Alberta Gold and Silver in competitive trail at Canadian Nationals

noreply@blogger.com (Endurance.Net) — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:46:00 +0000

August 19, 2008 Media Release

Sundre, AB - The Rocky Mountain Challenge 2008 Canadian Nationals saw over
170 entries from the United States and Canada compete over five days at Red
Deer River Ranches west of Sundre, AB in the sports of endurance,
competitive trail and ride n' tie.

Sunny and partly cloudy skies accompanied the Open competitive trail riders
over their two-day, 80-mile bid to become Canadian Champions. The terrain
offered a challenging test including hard climbs, long flats, lots of
technical riding, plenty of water, and some bog.

Many seasoned competitors found the terrain and the time frame challenging
and had to push their limits to achieve finishing times.

Both Gold and Silver medals were scooped up by the two Alberta team entries
which included three first-time Nationals contenders (Holly Tibble, Kandace
Krause and Christine Smith) and some talented veterans.

Gold Medal - Natasha French of Millarville, AB on Savannah, Cathy Kolesar of
Coutts, AB aboard Classical Dancer and Holly Tibble of St. Albert, AB riding
King Sera.

Silver Medal - Linda Riley of Leslieville, AB riding Kittasha, Kandace
Krause of Canmore, AB riding Jasmine and Christine Smith of Calgary, AB
riding JV Prism.

Cathy Kolesar also earned the Individual bronze medal.

Natasha French of Millarville, AB aside from capturing the gold medal for
Alberta, was also named the Canadian silver individual medallist. French was
caught up in emotion during the presentations earning her first team medal
at her second Nationals appearance. Riding a 14.2 hh Arabian mare named
Savannah, French was happy with the results. "She did great! She?s just so
consistent. She definitely was fresh when we started. She was definitely
peaking for this ride. She?s just my little energizer bunny."

This was French?s second time to a National competition representing
Alberta. Her last appearance was in 2000 in Saskatchewan where she was a
team alternate riding an Arabian mare named Rosie.

French and Savannah have had a short but successful career together. In
2007, they won Provincial Grand Champion in their first open season together
and were pursuing a successful ride season leading up to Nationals.

"It was unbelievable. It didn?t even seem real. I've had such a great season
and it was such a great event. I'm just in awe and amazed at the horse. It
was certainly a proud moment."

Christine Smith of Calgary, AB nominated her horse JV Prism, an eleven
year-old Arabian gelding and was selected to represent Alberta in her first
season of Open competition and only her second season in the sport of
competitive trail riding. A bit of a hard-luck horse, she bought Prism three
years ago from JV Ranch in Coutts, AB after the ranch recovered the horse
from an abusive owner and rehabilitated him. Smith spent three years just
gaining some trust and control over her nervous mount and also nursed him
back from a ripped heel bulb, an injury that had Smith considering
euthanasia.

After overcoming so many obstacles, yet one more would be thrown in the path
of this pair. "He had a bad fall fifteen miles in on day two." Attests
Smith. "He lost 13 points from it. He skinned all his knees and his nose. I
wanted to quit and he wanted to keep going."

And so they did and despite the unfortunate circumstance, Smith's results
assisted the Alberta team in winning the silver. "It was the best
competition we?ve had, it was just phenomenal. I'm so proud of him."

"I was quite honored to be on the team."

Smith was introduced to the sport of competitive trail riding through Clay
Gerow, the owner of the facility where she boards her horse near
Millarville, AB and a local competitive trail rider, Leanna Marchant who she
credits a great deal to.

"I'm happy for Christine. She had done well this year." Attests Marchant who
trains with Smith."She always rides that horse and looks after him like
gold -if she hadn't fallen, she would have been in third overall. She did a
wesome. She placed like I did two years ago." Says Marchant who offers
perhaps a glimpse into Smith's future.

Marchant was on the 2006 silver medal Alberta team placing fifth
individually on her horse Samson's Fire. Now, at age nine, her horse has
already produced credible and consistent results including Provincial Grand
and Reserve Champion titles. Overcoming some saddle fit issues this year may
have influenced her horse being passed over by the team vet and chef d'
equipe for Alberta in the final team selections. "I was disappointed, but I
said I would win." And she did.

Marchant rode as an individual and captured the individual gold medal.

"I had only lost four points. Four points in two days... That's huge." Says
Marchant, beaming. Marchant was equally as thrilled with Alberta?s gold and
silver medals even though she was not on the team. "Other people got
selected and we got gold and silver and that's huge. This way, others got
acknowledged and I still got acknowledged with Sam."

"That was the hardest ride I've done since the Alberta Equestrian Games in
2005.? Says Marchant who has also competed in BC and Montana as well as her
homeland of Australia. Marchant's lofty future goals include planning to
qualify in the 100-mile endurance to represent Canada at the World
Equestrian games Kentucky two years from now."He's in his prime. We'll see
if he can do it and if I can do it." She says with a laugh. "He's not fast
but he's consistent."

The Canadian Nationals are hosted every two years, alternating between
eastern and western Canada. The Nationals also declared champions in
endurance and ride n' tie with a total of eight events being hosted in the
five days of competition.

USA: Nominated Riders for Malaysia WEC

noreply@blogger.com (Endurance.Net) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 18:03:00 +0000

The USA squad which will travel to Malaysia to compete for medals at the 2008 World Endurance Championship in Malaysia, November 6-9 will be selected from the following nominated entries. The squad, or Definite Entry list will be submitted to the WEC Organizing committee no later than October 1.

The following horse rider combinations are the nominated entries for
Malaysia:

1. Kathy Brunjes - Theatric
2. John Crandell - HH Saba Shams
3. Cheryl Dell - Reason To Believe
4. Lisa Green - LR Amana Tabi
5. Ann Hall - Bogus Thunder
6. Valerie Kanavy - King Ali Gold
7. Valerie Kanavy - Flash Flame
8. Heather Reynolds - Cal Flaming Emit
9. Meg Sleeper - Syrocco Reveille
10. Meg Sleeper - Shyrocco Troilus
11. Ceci Stasiuk - DJB Sombreiul
12. Jan Worthington - Golden Lightening

Congratulations to the 12 nominated entries.

A big thank you goes to to all the riders who nominated for Malaysia and
worked hard to try out for the team.

Warm regards,

Becky Hart
Chef d'Equipe
US Endurance

Australia: Tom Quilty test course at Tonimbuk

noreply@blogger.com (Endurance.Net) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 22:31:00 +0000

Photographer-Mark Jones: (top) Rohan Stane Shuja Bint Melika, (middle) Ken Bradley riding Pheonix Park Epona, (bottom) Linda Tanian riding Castlebar Darth Vader and Zoe Gardner riding Splitters Creek Fortitude

Australia?s best test 160km endurance course at Tonimbuk

Over 50 endurance riders, including some of Australia's best and several international entrants took the opportunity last weekend to ride the endurance course that will become the Tom Quilty Gold Cup National Championship course in September 2009.

This preview ride, known as the FEI CEI 3 * provided entrants with a range of ride options depending on their capability level. Options included a 160km ride, referred to as the 3*, 108 km FEI 2* ride and an AERA 108 km Elevator ride. All ride categories were open to both adult and junior riders.

Based at the world-class Tonimbuk Equestrian Centre in Bunyip, Victoria the challenging course included six phases, passing through the magnificent Bunyip State Park, traversing private land, bush tracks and all weather roads. Each phase varied in distance with riders required to vet in at base prior to heading off for the next phase.

Event Director, Lissy Verity could not have been happier. "We had riders from Tasmania, South Australia, New South Wales and Queensland, all of whom were warmly welcomed by the Victorians," she said. "International riders from Malaysia and guests from New Zealand and the USA also turned up to either participate in the ride or be dazzled by the facilities of the Tonimbuk Equestrian Centre. We also had visitors from the UAE stables."

Whilst the weather forecast had been for heavy rain in the preceding week and over the weekend riders were not deterred. Those competing in the 160km 3* ride headed off in the dark at 2 a.m. wearing specially designed torch lights attached to their riding helmets. All other riders started at the more civilised hour of 6 a.m.

What an exciting finish. With a time limit of 17 hours to complete the 3* ride, it was anybody?s race right up to the line with three of Australia's top endurance riders coming in within a second of one another. Open winner, Meg Wade crossed the line in 12:37:12 riding Castlebar Kalahari, closely followed by Penny Toft, riding Electra BBP Murdoch (12:37:13) and in third place was Jennifer Gilbertson on Ferrymaster At Webbs Creek in 12:37:14.

As a rider who has successfully represented Australia internationally Meg Wade was delighted with the overall performance of her Castlebar Arabian Endurance Horse team. "It was a safe yet challenging track," said Meg. "We had 10 horses entered in the event and we had 10 finish." Meg and Castlebar Kalahari also took out the Best Conditioned horse award.

Rohan Stanes performance really captured the essence and camaraderie of the endurance fraternity. Last to finish following some concerns with his horse, he returned to a standing ovation at 10.30 p.m. on Saturday night having spent nearly 17 hours in the saddle. Fellow competitors, officials, friends and family watched, some even shedding a tear, as Rohan's lovely grey Arab mare Shuja Bint Melika vetted in successfully. An experienced endurance rider, Rohan said the course was challenging with hills in all phases, and at times the going under foot was slippery. "Given the degree of difficulty of the course all the horses that completed the course did very well," he said.

Winner of the FEI 108km 2* Open category was Asher Batty riding Castlebar Dell. Brianna Bainger won the Youth category on Magic Glenn Katana and finishing first in the 3* 160km Youth category was Bridget Nottle riding Zara Farm Shadasj. The AERA Heavyweight winner was Ken Bradley riding Pheonix Park Epona, Middleweight division was won by Louise McCormack on Formosa Park Tali and the Lightweight winner was Natalie Thome riding Zayed Shakahn. The Junior division was won by Zeke Verspaandonk on Tonki Dee Boo Imagine, owned and trained by Ross and Debi Chisholm from Olivesprings.

According to Lissy Verity the course has now been tried and tested. "The track held up quite well considering the weather just prior to the event but there were some boggy spots. We have already reviewed the course and identified some areas of concern including traffic management, arena size and movement of spectators," she said. "We now have a much better insight to running the prestigious Tom Quilty Gold Cup National Championships and the 2009 event will be the best yet."

The Tom Quilty Gold Cup National Championship is legendary in Australia and internationally recognised as an event that truly tests the skill and strength of horse and rider as they compete to finish the 160km ride within 24 hours. It is one of the few events where riders compete as equals--world champions riding alongside juniors and first time Quilty riders.

For a comprehensive list of all the results visit www.tonimbukgoldcup.org.au

Canada: Team Alberta wins GOLD

noreply@blogger.com (Endurance.Net) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 22:23:00 +0000

Sundre, AB - Auto body shop owner, Dave Getzinger of Drayton Valley, AB had the ride of his life in the 50-mile endurance competition at the Rocky Mountain Challenge - 2008 Canadian Nationals August 2, 2008 held at Red Deer River Ranches, Sundre, AB

The event requires riders to negotiate the 50 miles of Rocky Mountain foothills terrain in the fastest time all while being monitored at veterinarian manned checks along the way to ensure their horses' fitness to continue.

Getzinger, aboard his twelve year-old Arabian, Prince Charming and teammates, Nancy Haughian of Grande Prairie, AB riding Buckaroo Heart, and Karen Badger of Grande Prairie, AB riding eight year-old Anglo-Arabian Erna Moon claimed the team gold medal and Getzinger was also awarded the Endurance Riders of Alberta individual gold medal. Of twenty-nine starters, twenty crossed the finish line.

Getzinger considers himself a recreational competitor, busy raising a family; his first competition was in 1992 in the sport of competitive trail. He was excited to represent Alberta in his first National and first team competition.

"I knew I wanted to do well. I wanted to represent well." Says Getzinger. " My horse surprised me - I just sat back and enjoyed scenery. I didn?t feel as strong as my competition.? Says Getzinger who found himself humbled among a talented field.

"I just love to ride and love endurance. To come up that well was very satisfying."

Getzinger holds the team gold in high esteem. "By far -to win the team gold is more satisfying. When I came into the first check, still running with the leaders, I recall talking to the chef d? equipe. We discussed staying with the leaders." It was a conscious decision to not run his horse harder than he felt capable to keep up with Karius and two Montana riders.

"To stay with them put me and my horse ahead of the team. I felt I would have been pulled and it would have been selfish and would have sacrificed the team. I believe I?m a team player and it was more important than team victories. My horse is my friend - I?m not going to hurt him for anything or anybody."

"The scenery, the beauty, the competition. I still think there was nothing about that ride I could complain about."

With the opportunity to compete among such a talented field, Getzinger also learned a great deal. It was also the first time someone crewed for him including veteran competitors Christy Janzen and Larry Handziuk who he credited with such great results. (crews are people who help care for the horse and rider when they arrive at checkpoints.) "It was very emotional -any club would rush to us. Taking care of the horse and us."

In all, Alberta claimed seven of the nine Canadian Championship medals during four days of competition. Over 170 riders from the United States and Canada took part.

The Canadian Nationals take place every two years alternating between eastern and western Canada. The first Nationals were held in Ontario in 1984.

Provincial teams are formed with riders nominating to their provincial organization.

Eight events took place over five days including International and Canadian National level rides as well as local level rides open to all level riders.

2008 Canadian Nationals in Competitive Trail, Endurance and Ride N? Tie
www.canadiannationals.org

Canada: Kelowna rider triumphs at Canadian Nationals

noreply@blogger.com (Endurance.Net) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 22:15:00 +0000

August 17, Media Release

Sundre, AB -Elroy Karius of Kelowna, BC and his six year-old equine partner Jolly Holiday "Doc" captured the 50-mile endurance ride at the Rocky Mountain Challenge ? 2008 Canadian Nationals August 2, 2008. The endurance ride was one of the eight events hosted over five days of competition which also included the long-distance equine sports of competitive trail riding and ride n' tie. The events were hosted at Red Deer River Ranches south of Sundre, AB.

Karius, an active endurance rider since 1994 got his start in competitive trail riding in 1981. In the last 6 years or so, when he broke the 6:30 hour mark, Karius has really become a contender. His fastest 50-mile ride was a flat ride in 3:40. This Nationals trail would not see blistering times to set any speed records. Its challenging terrain saw 1316 meters of elevation gain in long climbs. Technical stretches included some exceedingly difficult bog, which would claim many riders and saw one rider air-lifted to hospital. Twenty of the twenty-nine starters finished the event.

Just finishing the ride became an achievement and Karius would claim the gold with a ride time of 5:37:57.

"When you do this sport and the horse gives you everything they can give you and you get it done?it?s a gift." Said Karius of his win.

Bill Miller of Fairfield, MT rode his Arabian HA Lady Valarrie and captured the silver and the coveted best condition accolade with his time of 5:39:21. Doug Swingley of Lincoln, MT rode JV Laredo, a seven year-old Arabian to the bronze medal finishing in 5:47:31.

Karius?s mount 'Doc' claims that the horse has that Doc Holiday attitude. "He was a handful to work with. He?s tested us in many ways and continues to this day." Chuckles Karius. "But he?s probably got the best work ethic than any other horse I?ve ever worked with."

"For a young horse, he?s certainly done his work. He was awesome all day." Credits Karius. "For me, there is not greater pleasure than riding a fit horse."

Karius credits his wife, Gail Jewell, a veterinarian and fellow competitor who won the 100 mile the following day, his skilled farrier and other BC riders with assisting in achieving the big win and in helping him achieve in his chosen sport.

In 2003, Karius was named AERC middleweight division champion in Reno, NV and a week later he did a five day ride and claimed best condition on three of the five days. "That was Huge. I had this horse. It was a gift. He was exceptional."
Karius and the top contenders in the ride brought World Class horsemanship and talent to compete and riders of all levels were able to garner new experiences from their presence.

The Canadian National Champions included: Alberta team of Nancy Haughian of Grande Prairie, AB riding Buckaroo Heart, Dave Getzinger of Drayton Valley, AB aboard Prince Charming and Karen Badger of Grande Prairie, AB riding eight year-old Anglo-Arabian Erna Moon claimed the gold medal.

The Silver medal was awarded to Carol Wadey of Edson, AB and her two young daughters, Rae-Anne (17) and Robyn (13). These talented riders comprised Alberta?s second team and were the only team in both the 50 and 100-mile events to finish all three team members.

British Columbia secured the bronze medals with riders Lori Brewza from Chase BC riding her twelve year-old Morab Black Majik, Gail Jewell of Kelowna, BC and Wyatt Laing from Okanagan Center, BC riding a part-bred Arab Cody Flair.

The Canadian Nationals are held every two years, alternating between eastern and western Canada.

2008 Canadian Nationals in Competitive Trail, Endurance and Ride N? Tie
www.canadiannationals.org

Canada: Nationals at Rocky Mountain Challenge

noreply@blogger.com (Endurance.Net) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 21:51:00 +0000

August 17, 2008 Media Release

Alberta sweeps seven team Medals at the Canadian Nationals

Calgary - The Rocky Mountain Challenge - 2008 Canadian Nationals represented
over 170 long distance riders from across Canada and the United States from
July 31 - August 4, 2008. Three sports crowned their Canadian Champions:
competitive trail riding, endurance and ride n' tie. The events were hosted
at Red Deer River Ranches a working cattle and guest ranch west of Sundre,
AB.

Medal Results

Competitive Trail
Individual Gold - Leanna Marchant, Calgary, AB; Individual Silver - Natasha
French; Individual Bronze - Cathy Kolesar

Gold - Natasha French, Millarville, AB - Cathy Kolesar, Coutts, AB - Holly
Tibble, St. Albert, AB

Silver - Linda Riley, Leslieville, AB - Kandace Krause, Canmore, AB -
Christine Smith, Calgary, AB

Bronze - Elaine Steel, Mountain Grove, ON - Laura Rye of Alliston, ON - Anne
MacKay of B.C.

Canadian National Junior Champion - Leah Brunner, Red Deer, AB

50 Mile Endurance
Winner - Elroy Karius, Kelowna, BC
Best Condition - Bill Miller of Fairfield, MT

Gold - Nancy Haughian, Grande Prairie, AB - Dave Getzinger, Drayton Valley,
AB Karen Badger, Grande Prairie, AB

Silver - Carol, Rae-Anne and Robyn Wadey of Edson, AB

Bronze - Lori Brewza, Chase BC - Gail Jewell, Kelowna, BC - Wyatt Laing,
Okanagan Center, BC

100 mile Endurance
Winner and Best Condition - Gail Jewell, Kelowna, BC

Gold - Christy and Jaylene Janzen of Devon, AB - Crystal Fulcher, Seba
Beach, AB

Silver - Gail Jewell, Kelowna, B.C. - Tunie Russeau, Westbank, BC - Terre O?
Brennen, Delta, BC

No Bronze team.

20 Mile Ride N' Tie
Gold - Alison Douglas, Banff, AB - Heather Price, Canmore, AB
Silver - Rae-Anne Wadey, Edson, AB - Jenny Mooney, Winfield, AB
Bronze - Prue Critchley of Hamiota, MB - Kristine Erb of Oakbluff, MB

Further Details

"The ranch was an excellent venue to showcase long distance talent.
Beautiful, scenic trail provided our wide range of competitors with a
challenging and unforgettable experience." Declared Sandra Nielsen, RMC
committee president. "It was terrific to see the varying ages of riders and
the many breeds of horses participating; among the many Arabians were
standardbreds, quarter horses, mustangs, even a Norwegian Fjord. One
particular favorite was Leah Brunner's 13.1hh pony, Willow, a very strong
competitor in the junior 80-mile Competitive Trail event."

With Alberta as host of the event, both endurance and competitive trail
events qualified two teams a piece and this strong contingent of teams
claimed five of the possible six Canadian National team medals in those two
sports including three gold and two silver.

"In numbers, Alberta has the strongest competitive trail club (Trail Riding
Alberta Conference) in Canada as well as a very strong endurance club
(Endurance Riders of Alberta). These clubs sanction several regional
competitions held throughout the year all over Alberta, so it was no
surprise to have the "home team" in the medals," commented Nielsen.

Competitive Trail Riding

In the competitive trail riding, a two-day eighty-mile ride was hosted in
superb competition weather conditions with partly cloudy skies and
temperatures from sub to mid twenties. The trail wound its way through the
foothills region of the Rocky Mountains and challenged the horses with
elevation gains of 2223 meters. "We threw at them everything the foothills
of the Canadian Rockies provides: Hard climbs, long flats, lots of
technical riding, plenty of water, and some bog. It was a challenging but
fair test of distance horses competing at a national championship." Stated
Brent Seufert, trail committee.

In total, 30 riders started, 20 riders finished. Competitive trail riders
have a minimum and maximum time period in which to complete the course and
were scored on how their horse?s handled the challenge. Team scores were
tabulated to determine the 2008 Canadian Champions.

Gold was awarded to Alberta A team - Natasha French of Millarville, AB
riding her twelve year-old bay Arabian mare Savannah, Cathy Kolesar of
Coutts, AB riding a seven year-old Arabian named Classical Dancer and Holly
Tibble of St. Albert, AB riding King Sera, a nine year old Arabian. French
also won the individual silver and Kolesar captured the individual bronze
medal.

The silver medal was won by Alberta B team despite the unfortunate
circumstance of Kandance Krause?s horse losing a shoe on day one resulting
in her time penalty disqualification. The team included veteran long
distance rider Linda Riley of Leslieville, AB riding sixteen year-old
Kittasha, Kandace Krause of Canmore, AB riding Jasmin, a sixteen year-old
Arab cross and Christine Smith of Calgary, AB riding her eleven year-old
Arabian, JV Prism in their first Nationals appearance and only their second
season in the sport.

The bronze medal was awarded to team Ontario, which included Elaine Steel of
Mountain Grove, ON riding Chanticleer Shadow, Laura Rye of Alliston, ON
riding Touch of Steel and Anne MacKay of B.C. riding Dante.

Leanna Marchant of Calgary, AB riding her solid Arabian, Samson?s Fire put
together a stellar ride finishing with an individual gold medal.

Nine year-old Leah Brunner of Red Deer, AB and her trusty pony 'Willow' were
named the Canadian National Junior Champions in their first open season and
first National event.

"I love this sport. I'm always going to be in this sport - competitive trail
and endurance." beams a self-assured young Brunner.

50 Mile Endurance

In the fifty-mile endurance event, the Alberta team of Nancy Haughian of
Grande Prairie, AB riding Buckaroo Heart, Dave Getzinger of Drayton Valley,
AB aboard Prince Charming and Karen Badger of Grande Prairie, AB riding
eight year-old Anglo-Arabian Pilgrim claimed the gold medal. Twenty of the
twenty-nine starters finished the event including Carol Wadey of Edson, AB
and her two young daughters, Rae-Anne (17) and Robyn (13). These talented
riders comprised Alberta's second team and were the only team in both the 50
and 100-mile events to finish all three team members earning them their
silver medals.

With over 23,000 combined miles between them this was the first time they
have competed at nationals. It was also only the second time that they have
ridden together in a team event. Robyn rode nineteen year-old Spanish
Mustang named Gypsy while her Mom; Carol rode Gypsy's offspring, a half Arab
named MR Ladybird.

Rae-Anne rode Jet, her fifteen year-old 14.1 hh polish Arab "I?ve been
riding him for ten years." Says Rae-Anne. "He's naturally easy at the start
of ride, it?s so nice. He's slowing a little now. I have put on about
500-700 miles per year, but last year it was barely over 100. I'm slowing
down a little too. A lot of slow miles, we never go fast. I like it, its
fun, it's a challenge."

Mom Carol has been competing since 1983. Rae-Anne started at age 5 in
limited distance; Robyn started limited distance age 5 and started 50s the
same year.

British Columbia secured the bronze medals with riders Lori Brewza from
Chase BC riding her twelve year-old Morab Black Majik, Gail Jewell of
Kelowna, BC and Wyatt Laing from Okanagan Center, BC riding a part-bred Arab
Cody Flair.

Overall, the individual gold medal in the 50-mile was Elroy Karius of
Kelowna riding Jolly Holiday, a six year-old Arabian with a ride time of
5:37:57.

"When you do this sport and the horse gives you everything they can give you
and you get it done?It's a gift." Said Karius of his win.

Bill Miller of Fairfield, MT rode his Arabian HA Lady Valarrie and captured
the silver and the coveted best condition accolade with his time of 5:39:21.
Doug Swingley of Lincoln, MT rode JV Laredo, a seven year-old Arabian to the
bronze medal finishing in 5:47:31.

100 Mile Endurance

In the 100-mile event, Alberta's contingent of consummate riders also
captured gold. This gold-medal team included Christy Janzen of Devon, AB
riding Salate's Victory, her fifteen year-old daughter Jaylene aboard SLSF
Halite's Comet and Crystal Fulcher of Seba Beach, AB riding Bardo Grey
Fonyx.

While their day started out in a similar weather pattern of earlier days in
the week, the winds of change erupted with showers about eight hours into
the event followed by two storm cells rolling through the area after the
eleven hour mark. Out of 26 starters, only ten riders crossed the finish
line. The torrent of rain was influential in preventing any riders from
attaining a sub 13 hour 20 minute ride time to qualify in the FEI event for
the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky in 2010.

The silver medal was awarded to British Columbia. The team consisted of Gail
Jewell of Kelowna, B.C. who won the ride on her ten year-old Arab NL
Temptation. Jewell's teammates included Tunie Russeau of Westbank, BC riding
thirteen-year-old Arietta and Terre O?Brennen of Delta, BC riding
twelve-year-old Arabian, Koszaar.

Jewell also commandeered the much sought-after title of best condition in
both the AERC and FEI events with her ride time of 14:18:54, which was well
ahead of Sue Summers from Gifford, WA who finished in 15:42:33 riding Mags
Motovator.

There was no bronze team awarded.

Individual Canadian Championship 100 Miles: Gold - Gail Jewell DVM, Silver -
Trisha Dowling DVM (St. Denis, SK), Bronze - Crystal Fulcher.

Ride N'Tie

In the Ride n? Tie twenty-mile Canadian Championship event, Alberta teams
emerged with gold and silver titles. Gold was awarded to Alison Douglas of
Banff, AB and Heather Price of Canmore, AB who complete the challenging,
muddy course in 3:28, pursued closely by Rae-Anne Wadey and Jenny Mooney of
Winfield, AB in 3:35 who captured the silver medal. Wadey and Mooney teamed
up after Wadey?s original partner backed out. They rode 'Tonto' a horse
owned by Alberta rider Christy Janzen for the event. Wadey competes in track
and field, cross-country and also did the K-100 relay in Kananaskis country.
"We get off our horses a lot when doing endurance riding.? Says Wadey of the
running portion of the ride n' tie. "I went to the World Champion ride n'
tie in Montana three years ago. That one was a bit easier than this one.?
Claims Wadey who had to battle slick, mucky conditions following Sunday's
rainstorms.

Prue Critchley of Hamiota, MB, a few generations Wadey's senior, and
Kristine Erb of Oakbluff, MB showed dogged determination in completing the
course in 6:15 riding sixteen year-old Morab, Fort William.

Germany: Kreuth event crowns champions

noreply@blogger.com (Endurance.Net) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 19:09:00 +0000

Junior Champion
Amy Wegner & Aicha Addschawad

Senior Champion
Belinda Hitzler & Shagar

CEI 160km Winner
Urs Wenger CH & Cadour d'Alsace (SWI)

Results and Photo Gallery

Australia: Tingha endurance ride goes international

noreply@blogger.com (Endurance.Net) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 05:02:00 +0000

The Invernell Times
15/08/2008 11:11:00 AM

GREEN Valley Farm is to become home for more than 100 horses and riders this weekend.

And the Green Valley Tingha Endurance Ride 2008 is set to become an International Endurance event.

There will be three riders from Thailand at the Tingha ride including Prutirat Serireongrith, who is the vice-president of the Thai Endurance Riders Association, from Bangkok, Wipawan Pawitayalarp of Bangkok and Dr Supanee Chaiwiro from Pattaya.

All three riders will be attempting the 80km ride.

Prutirat has previously completed two 40km and two 80km rides in Australia.

Both Wipawan and Supanee have completed one 40km ride in Australia, but they have also completed several 40km and 60km rides in Thailand. This will be their first attempt at the 80km distance.

Prutirat will be riding his own horse, Shardell Prince Ali, a 6-year-old purebred gelding bred by Rod Strahan of Shardell Arabians in Queensland. Wipawan will be riding another horse owned by Prutirat, Shardell Galazan, also bred by Strahan.

Supanee will be riding Mt Eerwah Silver Mariner, an 11-year-old purebred gelding bred by Robyn Pembroke of Mt Eerwah Arabians of Queensland, and owned by Splendacrest Endurance Training.

Endurance riding in Thailand is in its infancy, although support and interest in the sport is growing rapidly.

By gaining experience in Australia, where endurance riding is well established, these Thai riders are hoping to progress the sport at home.

In addition, there will also be His Excellence, Sheik Saeed Bin Maktoum al Maktoum from the United Arab Emirents.

He will be riding in the 110km challenge ride, and is keen to win the event.

Enduranace racing is a very popular sport in his country, where riders compete for prize money. But in Australia, prize money is not allowed.

Bahrain: Shaikh Nasser joyful for victory of Shaikh Khalid in the Thetford race

noreply@blogger.com (Endurance.Net) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 19:23:00 +0000

Bahrain News Agency
London, Aug 1

The captain of the Bahraini royal endurance team Shaikh Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalifa expressed his great joy on the first European victory of Shaikh Khalid Bin Hamad Al Khalifa, leader of al Khalidiya Stables, at the Thetford race.

The victory in the fourth European event for the Royal Team adds to the good days Shaikh Khalid is having after graduating from the Toyal Military Academy Sandhurst, Shaikh Nasser said. The team is preparing for the World Endurance Championship in Malaysia to be held in November. The generous support of Shaikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Mmaktoom and his sons Shaikh Hamdan and Shaikh Majed was also a great source of joy, Shaikh Nasser said.

Shaikh Khalid repeated his achievement of last year by scoring the fastest time in the 160 kilometre race. Shaikh Khalid praised the level exhibited by Shaikh Khalid in the race and his performance in its six stages. Shaikh Kkhalid deserved the victory which he earned after a putting a lot of efforts for this race, Shaikh Nasser said. On his part, Shaikh Kkhalid extended his appreciation for Shaikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoom, Shaikh Hamdan and Shaikh Majed for their great support throughout the event.

Shaikh Khalid said the race would be a beautiful memory as it was the first time he won a European Endurance Championship. He said that the guidance of his brother Shaikh Nasser has led him to the finish line of the race. Shaikh Nasser became a main source of support after his withdrawal from the race, he said. Shaikh Duaij Bin Salman Al Khalifa praised the big victory of Shaikh Khalid, especially that the race witnessed strong competition from the very beginning. As a Bahraini Team, we were keen to stay together until the end but circumstances played against us, he said. Shaikh Nasser decided to withdraw, rider Mohammed Abdul Aziz was slightly injured after his horse tripped, he said.

Only three were left with Ahmed Abdulla who tried his best but could not complete the race as his horse did not pass the veterinarian checkup, he explained. Shaikh Duaij commended the significant role Shaikh Nasser had in guiding the team during the remaining phases of the highly competitive race. The Thetford race witnessed a steamy competition with the positions of jockeys shifting at every stage. At the second stage of the race, both Shaikh Khalid and Shaikh Duaij crossed the distance in 3.48.28. Mohammed Abdul Aziz completed the distance in 3.51.30 and Ahmed Abdullah in 3.46.29.

Shaikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoom had the lead with 3.42.06. at the 120 km, Yousif Ali Taher completed the distance 3.41.56 whereas Ghazi Al Dosseri's horse was injured and therefore lost time. In the 120 km for youth, Mohammed Abdulsamad crossed the distance in 3.31.09. After the first stage, Sshaikh Nasser came third with 2.06.42 while Shaikh Mohammed Bin Rashid has the lead with 2.05.37. Ahmed Abdullah came third with 2.06.28 and Shaikh Khalid came fifth.

Although Shaikh Mohammed Min Rashid was ahead in the third stage, Shaikh Khalid continued with a time of 5.24.10. Ahmed Abdulla had a time of 5.29.09 and Yousif Taher 4.05.08. the members of the royal team were still present in the fourth stage for 160km and 120km. Shaikh Khalid Bin Hamad had a time of 6.22.27, Ahmed Abdullah with 6.19. 46 and Shaikh Duaij Bin Salman 6.23.13. Mohammed Abdul Samad withdrew at 120 km because he got dehydrated.

Canadian Championship 2008 Results

noreply@blogger.com (Endurance.Net) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 17:11:00 +0000

Rocky Mountain Challenge website

Partial Results 100 Miles:

AERC
Place Rider Time
1 Gail Jewel 14:18:54 Best Condition
2 Sue Summers 15:42:33
3 Carol Giles 15:42:34
4 Jan Marsh 15:42:35

ERA
Place Rider Time
1 Jan Marsh 15:42:35
2 Crystal Fulcher 18:17:15

Junior
Place Rider Time
1 Kelsey Kimbler 18:17:17
2 Jaylene Janzen 18:17:18

FEI
Place Rider
1 Gail Jewel Best Condition
2 Sue Summers
3 Carol Gile
4 Jan Mars

Individual Canadian Championship
Place Rider
Gold Gail Jewell DVM
Silver Trisha Dowling DVM
Bronze Crystal Fulcher

South Africa News

noreply@blogger.com (Endurance.Net) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 15:06:00 +0000

Mogale Endurance Club
NEWSLETTER

Dear Fellow Mogalians,

It is with great pride that we congratulate the following members for completing FAURESMITH.

Danie Herbst Junior;
Bernice Binet;
Kay Lockwood;
Sophia Liebenberg;
Wendy Smallman;
Lianne Herbst;
Stephne Lockwood.

Congratulations to you all and for those who never completed the ride better luck next time..

It was good to see so many members at Dullstroom last weekend. Henno Pretorius and his family, Herbie and Johannie Geldenhuys, Laura Woods, Ance Deetlefs, Dr Paul VanDam and Franza Keyser and Julius Keyser.

To my knowledge all our members got through and this is also no mean feat as Dullstroom is a very difficult course.

I would also wish to thank the following club members who were so kind as to assist us with donations to obtain finance to assist with the furnishings of the luxury chalets which Mr William Khoury has built at the second dam. The members are, Antony Ball, Kobus Lombaard, Darnie Ferreira, Tim Anderson, Dr Paul VanDam and myself.

The new ride base apart from the grassing on the running lanes and vetting area which will take place early in September is looking absolutely superb and this is indeed a ride base which the club and its members can be very proud.

Monique and Laura recently returned from Brazil where they attended an international ride and I annex hereto a report from Monique on the ride which people might find of interest.

We will advise you shortly of the AGM which must be held before the end of October to enable all fees to be paid in and over to ERASA to avoid penalties. For those club members travelling to Walvisbaai I wish you the best of luck and a safe journey.

YOUNG RIDERS: BRASIL 2008

In 2006 and 2007, Nick and Vitoria Lins of Rio, Brasil, came to South Africa to join us at the FEI Christiana Endurance Ride on horses prepared by Laura Woods (2007) and Laura and the Marx family of Wolmaranstad in 2008. Both Nick and Vitoria have been selected for the Brasilian team to take part in the World Championships in Malaysia in 2008. Nick recently rode with South African Carmen du Preez in Brasil: Carmen won the open 160kms event, and Nick?s efforts gained him the Brasilian Championship.

A return invitation was issued to Laura Woods and Petrus Marx as Young Riders to take part in the prestigious Festival Internacional de Enduro: Jequitib� (Sao Paulo, Brasil) on 25 July 2008. 33 Young Riders from Brasil, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, France, Italy and England and South Africa took part. The ride base was the exclusive Paradiso Resort, where spectators could watch the final leg being run around a fountain?filled lake.

The CEIOYR course of 122kms consisted of three extremely technical legs, with steep hills and hard roads, estimated at about a 10 handicap. The last two legs of 22 and 19kms were flat, fast and furious.

The horse ridden by Laura, NNL Millenium Bay, was recovering from a tendon injury and unfortunately despite a valiant effort could not get past the 4th leg.

Petrus rode Lumiar Simply Red, a fiery chestnut mare owned by Dr Paolo and Nick Lins. She has spent most of her 10 years as a show horse, only last year coming into endurance and with a mere 2 x 60kms and 1 x 90kms to her name. This was her first attempt at 120kms. She gave Petrus a hard time in the 1st leg, being most unwilling to be held in. After the 3rd leg Petrus decided to ride without a bit due to mouth injuries and the mare calmed down somewhat. Petrus was in the top ten from the first leg. The mare kept up her desire to run as fast as possible, and on the final two legs she and Petrus perfected their partnership. As Petrus approached the last 500m he passed two well known riders, Rafael Salvador (Uru) and Iuri Timoner (Bra) who then dramatically gave chase as they came in to full spectators? view around the lake. Petrus casually turned around to see them coming in full flight, and he then turned on the power. To an exultant rendition of ?Hier kom die Bokke? by the South African fans, Simply Red curled her tail over her back and leapt forward to sweep over the finishing line, giving Petrus 5th position in a time of 6h55. He was one of 23 who completed the course; 12 were eliminated.

This was Petrus? first ride out of Africa. You may remember him in a documentary of Fauresmith made by Danie Ferreira (Urban Brew) in 2003. He was the little chap with big eyes captured in the early morning light; the commentator talked about his desire to become a Springbok ? which in fact came true.

Petrus? first horse was a Schneider; he qualified him in his first season and finished in the top ten children?s division at Fauresmith in 2003. Since then he has ridden for the national team on 3 occasions. His Arab gelding Shamalti Namib has been awarded Best Condition on 3 occasions.

Lekker Ry.

MOGALE ENDURANCE CLUB
Per: TONY BERLOWITZ
CHAIRMAN

UK: Royal Victory

noreply@blogger.com (Endurance.Net) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 14:53:00 +0000

[More ...]

ROYAL VICTORY

BAHRAIN'S Royal Endurance Team rider Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa won the 160-kilometre event of the Thetford race, held yesterday in England.

It was the first European endurance victory for Shaikh Khalid, who is fast improving as one of the kingdom's best riders.

The Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (Breef) first vice-president completed the distance in a dominant eight hours 19 minutes and 12 seconds, which was more than half an hour than his closest rival. It was also a close mark to the winning time of Royal Team leader and Breef president Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa in Thetford last year.

Shaikh Khalid was congratulated for his victory by Dubai Ruler Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and Shaikh Nasser. Both Sheikh Mohammed and Shaikh Nasser withdrew from the race in the second stage due to an injury to their respective horses.

Shaikh Khalid said that he dedicates his hard-earned win to His Majesty the King.

Finishing second in the 160km event was Royal Team member Shaikh Daij bin Salman Al Khalifa, who clocked a time of 8:56:24, while Shaikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum of the UAE placed third in 9:31:21.

Meanwhile, Bahrainis Yousef Taher and Ghazi Al Dossary finished sixth and eight respectively in the 120km race at Thetford. Taher had a mark of 7:00:54, while Al Dossary came in in 7:19:37.

Mohammed Ahmed Al Subose of the UAE won in 5:20:35.

Bahrain: Royal team set for UK race

noreply@blogger.com (Endurance.Net) — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 16:12:00 +0000

Gulf Daily News

BAHRAIN'S Royal Endurance Team, led by Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa and Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, will be taking part in the Thetford Endurance Race in the UK tomorrow.

The event, which will feature races over 160 kilometres and 120km, is part of the Royal team's preparations for the International Federation of Equestrian Sports (FEI) World Endurance Championship, which is scheduled to take place in Terengganu, Malaysia in November later this year.

Both Shaikh Nasser and Shaikh Khalid will be competing in the 160-km event, along with Shaikh Daej bin Salman Al Khalifa, Mohammed Abdulaziz, Ahmed Abdulla and Yousef Taher.

Meanwhile, the Bahrainis taking part in the 120km race will be Mohammed Abdulsamad, Ghazi Al Dossary, and Jordan Galas.

Shaikh Nasser, the Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (Breef) president, said that tomorrow's race will be the Royal team's final event prior to the world championships.

Shaikh Nasser also decided to compete in the 160km race with the main Royal team members, who will participate in the Malaysian event.

The race will be the second endurance meet being participated by the Royal team in Thetford. Last month, the team took part in a similar competition, with five of its top riders finishing among the top 10 in each of the categories.

Shaikh Nasser and Shaikh Khalid took part in the 120km race then, along with Shaikh Daej. Shaikh Khalid completed the race sixth overall, while Shaikh Nasser came in ninth and Shaikh Daej 10th.

Abdulaziz, on the other hand, came fourth in the 160km race, while Taher was fifth.

The medical check for tomorrow's race will take place this afternoon, to be held under the supervision of the FEI.

The event will be the Bahrain's third participation for the season. The first was the Bahrain Cup in England, while the second race was in Austria.
[More ...]

Australia: World class endurance events in Tonimbuk, Victoria

mer@TheEquestrianVagabond.com (Merri) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:21:00 +0000

Horsedeals.com.au

6th Aug 2008

The motto of Australian endurance riders is "To complete is to win". In excess of 70 riders from around Australia and the globe will be aiming to complete the FEI CEI 3* 160km , FEI 2* 108km and AERA 108km elevated ride endurance ride this weekend (8-9 August) at Tonimbuk, Victoria.

Considered a world-class endurance ride, it is a preview event to the internationally renowned Tom Quilty Gold Cup scheduled for September 2009 as it covers the exact same course as the Quilty. This FEI ride will also be used as a qualifying event for the 2009 Malaysian World Endurance Championships.

Based out of the Tonimbuk Equestrian Centre, an internationally recognised equestrian facility, the ride will pass through the magnificent Bunyip State Park, traverse private land, bush tracks and all weather sandy gravel roads.

The 160 km ride commences at 2 a.m. on Saturday morning with horse and rider combinations returning to the Tonimbuk Equestrian Centre to vet in after each phase has been completed.

If you would like further information please contact:

Helen Ward
Tom Quilty Gold Cup Inc 2009 Communications Officer
Mob 0438 594285

Poland: The Nationals, Internationals and Regionals in Kuznia

mer@TheEquestrianVagabond.com (Merri) — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 23:12:00 +0000

22 July 2008

by Maciej Kacprzyk

The weekend of the 17th-20th of July was a busy date for the Ku?nia Nowowiejska Equestrian Center (near Zyrardow), as the club held competitions in endurance racing: the Polish National Championships for Young Riders and Juniors, an international competition and an All-Polish competition in this discipline. Altogether nearly 40 pairs from Poland, Czech Republic, Lithuania and Sweden competed in 7 contests.

On Friday the domestic contests were held. Victorious over the shortest distance - 30 km (L rank) - was a competitor from the Champion Lodz Equestrian Club, Katarzyna Nykielewicz atop the stallion Elpas 2002 (Arzgir - Elema by Wermut), bred by Tarus Arabians. In the P ranked event (50 km) triumphed Olga Ciesielska with Peoria 2002 (Balon ? Peseta by Eldon), bred by Janow Podlaski Stud., also under the flag of the Champion Equestrian Club. Apart from the distances where style mattered, also held that day was a racing contest ranked 1* over 70 km. Unfortunately, none of the five pairs who competed managed to finish this distance - all horses were eliminated due to lameness. In part this could've been a result of the going of the course, which (as far as Polish conditions go) was hard and required particular attention from the riders.

Photos and More ...

North American Young Rider Championship - DiCamillo and Crestwood Premiere Win

noreply@blogger.com (Endurance.Net) — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 23:01:00 +0000

July 31, 2008
Endurance.Net

The first North American Endurance Championship for Young Riders was held at the Colorado Horse Park in Parker, Colorado.

10 young riders started the event at 5:45, and Jessica DiCamillo and Crestwood Premier crossed the finish line at 4:23:30 PM for a first place finish and a total ride time of 7:48:30 in the 75 mile event. A tight race to the finish placed Caitlin Massman and CHF Adios in 2nd place with a ride time of 7:48:32.

Eight young riders successfully completed the course:

Place	Rider	Horse	Ride time
1	Jessica DiCamillo	Crestwood Premiere	7:48:30
2	Caitlin Massman	CHF Addios	7:48:32
3	Jennifer Stevens	Phil	7:49:42
4	Heather Stevens	RSA Count LaQuen	7:49:46
5	Kirsten Kimbler	Junior CAHR	8:04:44
6	Jordan Fleege	RCF Blad Runner	8:12:55
7	Frances Chase-Dunn	Dixie Love	8:56:41
8	Elizabeth Kingwood	DJB Double Trouble	8:56:43
-	Morgan Conner	Whistleddin	Eliminated, Lame
-	Ashley VanRaalte	Serloki	Eliminated, Lame

DiCamillo and Massman sprint for the finish. photo by Merri Melde, Endurance.Net

Full Coverage on Endurance.Net

2008 North American Young Rider & Junior Championship

noreply@blogger.com (Endurance.Net) — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 04:16:00 +0000

July 30, 2008
Endurance.Net

Young riders are gathering this week in Parker, Colorado, for the FEI North American Junior and Young Rider Championships. Several FEI equestrian disciplines will be represented in the Championship: Dressage, Eventing, Jumping and Reining.

There will also be a Junior & Young Rider CEI*** Endurance competition, but due to the strict FEI qualification requirements for a North American Championship competition, USEF opted to hold an open competition rather than an official Championship for Junior and Young Rider (14-21 yrs) divisions so that more young riders could participate. While the Endurance event is not officially part of the NA Championship, riders from the various disciplines will reap the benefit of sharing the venue and the experience of a high level competition.

Endurance.Net will provide coverage for the event (July 31) at http://www1.endurance.net/international/USA/2008COYR/
.

List of starting riders for Endurance CEI***

Strong showing at Thetford Endurance

noreply@blogger.com (Endurance.Net) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:16:00 +0000

Bahrain Gulf Weekly

BAHRAIN'S Royal Endurance team put in a strong showing in the Thetford Endurance Race in England, with five of its top riders finishing among the top 10 in both the event's race categories.

In the 120-kilometre race, Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (Breef) first vice-president Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, riding his horse 'Sprite', finished sixth overall, while Royal team leader and Breef president Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, on his horse 'Sebastian', finished ninth overall.

In the same distance, Shaikh Daij bin Salman Al Khalifa, on his horse 'Wishky', came in 10th place.

UAE rider Hussain Ali Al Marzooqi won the race, while second place was claimed by teammate Majed Ahmed Al Sabri.

Shaikh Khalid completed his event in a time of 5:47:45 for sixth, while going for an average speed of 20.07kph. Shaikh Nasser, on the other hand, completed the 120km distance in 6:15:22, with a similar average speed.

Meanwhile, in the 160km race, Bahrainis Mohammed Abdulaziz riding 'Kahir' came in an impressive fourth and teammate Yousef Taher riding 'Canada Coy' finished fifth.

The win was clinched by UAE rider Abdulla bin Hazim, while second place went to his teammate Shaikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Bahrain Royal team consisted of another two riders Mohammed Al Thawadi on 'Ciscada' and Lorent Mosti from the technical team riding 'Bisk'.

The race featured participants from Bahrain, UAE, Qatar, the UK, France, India and Saudi Arabia. Among them was UAE team leader UAE Vice-President and Dubai Ruler Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and Dubai Crown Prince Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Shaikh Khalid and Shaikh Nasser met with Shaikh Mohammed after their respective events.

The event will be the Bahrain team's third participation for the season. The first was the Bahrain Cup in England, while the second race was in Austria.

The Royal team competed as part of their preparations for the International Federation of Equestrian Sports World Endurance Championship, which is scheduled to take place in Terengganu, Malaysia in November later this year.

Bahrain Gulf Weekly

Canadian Nationals: Provincial teams announced

noreply@blogger.com (Steph Teeter) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 00:32:00 +0000

Sundre - The Rocky Mountain Challenge - 2008 Canadian Nationals is being
hosted at Red Deer River Ranches, a guest and working cattle ranch located
south-west of the town of Sundre, AB July 31 - August 4, 2008.
This long-distance equine event will feature eight events in three sports:
endurance, competitive trail riding and ride n? tie with Canadian National
champions being named in each sport.

With Alberta hosting the prestigious event, the sports of endurance and
competitive trail riding are able to post two teams to compete. The
selection committees have watched these horse and rider teams compete over
the season and have the job of naming those horses and riders who will best
represent the province.

Trail Riders Alberta Conference (TRAC) - the sanctioning body for the sport
of competitive trail riding in Alberta has named their selections for the
80-mile 2-day Provincial teams and they are:

Natasha French (Millarville, AB)riding Savannah
Cathy Kolesar of (Coutts, AB) riding Classical Dancer
Kandace Krause of (Canmore, AB) riding Jasmine
Linda Riley of (Leslieville, AB) riding Kittasha
Christine Smith of (Calgary, AB) on JV Prism
Leanna Marchant of (Calgary, AB) on Samsons Fire
Shannon Harms of (Edmonton, AB) on Kaluha
Sylvio Campanelli of (Blackfalds, AB) on Misty
Holly Tibble of (St. Albert, AB) riding King Sera
Angie Bowring of (Spruce Grove, AB) on PeJay

Endurance Riders of Alberta (ERA) - the sanctioning body for the sport of
endurance riding in Alberta has named their selections for the provincial
teams as well and they are:

Crystal Fulcher (Seba Beach, AB)
Christy Janzen (Devon, AB)
Jaylene Janzen (Devon, AB)
(Alternate- Brenda Shaughnessy (Spruce Grove, AB)

50 milers:
Karen Badger (Grande Prairie, AB)
Dave Getzinger (Drayton Valley, AB)
Nancy Haughian (Grande Prairie, AB)
(alternates- Jaye Yavis, Jessica Yavis)(Breton, AB)

50 milers:
Carol Wadey (Edson, AB)
Robyn Wadey (Edson, AB)
Rae-Anne Wadey (Edson, AB)
(alternates- Colleen Williams (Spruce Grove, AB), Brenda Henrikson (Evansburg, AB)

"We are excited to see the strong showing of local talent competing in not
just the Championship events, but in many of our other featured events."
states Sandra Nielsen, RMC committee president, "The local volunteer base is
also extraordinary and is a critical component of putting together an event
of this magnitude. Of course, we still welcome any other volunteers that
would like to be a part of it."

These horse and rider teams have been competing and training all season in
preparation for this phenomenal opportunity to represent their province and
hopefully stand on the podium as Canadian National Champions. Come cheer
them on, volunteer or offer financial support!!

FAST FACTS:
Full schedules and details are available on www.canadiannationals.org
The Canadian Nationals alternating between western and eastern Canada every
two years. The first Nationals were held in Ontario in 1984.

Provincial teams are formed with riders nominating to their provincial
organization.

Status of provincial teams for the past two nationals in competitive trail:
Quebec 2006 * Gold - Ontario * Silver - Alberta * Bronze - Team Almost East
Manitoba 2004 * Gold - Ontario * Silver - Saskatchewan * Bronze - Alberta

Alberta has hosted the Nationals on two other occasions:
Kananaskis Country 1988, RAM River Falls 1996.

The 2008 Nationals will also host a 100-mile FEI competition that allows
competitors the opportunity to qualify for the 2010 World Equestrian Games
in Kentucky.

Nearly 170 entries will represent British Columbia to Ontario as well as the
United States. Eight events are scheduled in five days including the International and
Canadian National level rides as well as local level rides that are open to
all riders. A fundraising auction is planned for August 2 - profits raised from the
Rocky Mountain Challenge will benefit CASE (Central Alberta Special Equestrian), a therapeutic riding program.

http://www.canadiannationals.org

For further information, please contact:

Cyndi Rowat
Public Relations
Ph 403.936.2369
Cell 403.660.2257
Email cyndi.rowat@3web.net

Sandra Nielsen
President
Ph 403.637.0245
Email Sandra.Nielsen@xplornet.com

SHAILKH NASSER AND SHAIKH KHALID LAUD DUBAI RULER'S SUPPORT

noreply@blogger.com (Steph Teeter) — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 22:00:00 +0000

Bahrain News Agency

Press Release: Date: 29 07, 2008

LONDON, JULY 29 (BNA) LEADER OF THE ROYAL TEAM SHAIKH NASSER BIN HAMAD AL KHALIFA AND LEADER OF KHALIDIYA STABLE SHAIKH KHALID BIN HAMAD AL KHALIFA HAVE APPRECIATED THE GREAT ROLE PLAYED BY UAE VICE PRESIDENT, PRIME MINISTER AND DUBAI RULER SHAIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM IN SUPPORTING ARAB EQUESTRIANS DURING THE EUROPEAN RACES HE AND HIS SONS WERE TAKING PART IN.
DURING THETFORD RACES, SHAIKH NASSER AND SHAIKH KHALID MET WITH SHAIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM AND HIS SON SHAIKH HAMDAN AND SENSED THE TREMENDOUS SUPPORT OFFERED BY DUBAI RULER TO ALL ARAB EQUESTRIANS TO BEST REPRESENT THE ARAB NATION AND PROJECT ITS GENUINE GOOD IMAGE. SHAIKH NASSER LAUDED THE BROAD EXPERIENCE DUBAI RULER HAS IN WHATEVER PERTAINS TO HORSE RIDING AND EQUESTRIAN RACES NOTABLY ENDURANCE COMPETITIONS. ON THE OTHER HAND, SHAIKH NASSER SAID THE TEAM WAS WELL PREPARED FOR THE NEXT RACES INCLUDING THAT OF THEFORD ON AUGUST 10, TO DRAW BENEFITS FROM THE VARIOUS TOUGH COMPETITIONS, ATTAIN GOOD RESULTS AND BE FULLY READY FOR THE QUALIFYING ENDURANCE RACE IN MALAYSIA AND THE WORLD ENDURANCE CHAMPIONSHIP.

Nazulki Muda Wins Malaysian Endurance Championship

mer@TheEquestrianVagabond.com (Merri) — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 14:07:00 +0000

Bernama.com

July 27, 2008 20:34 PM

SETIU, July 27 (Bernama) -- Nazulki Muda from Darul Iman Endurance Terengganu Club (DIET) emerged champion in the third circuit of the Malaysian Endurance Championship at the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP) in Lembah Bidong here Sunday.

Riding Indiana Rose in the 160km race, Nazulki who clocked 12 hours 43 minutes and 52 seconds led the field ahead of Mohd Azizi Ismail from Tengku Mahkota Kelantan Club who registered 12:56:20s.

Another Tengku Mahkota Kelantan Club rider, Zainuddin Mohd Yusof came in third when he registered 13:08:23s.

Nazulki walked away with RM5,000 while Azizi collected RM3,000 and Zainuddin RM2,000.

Seven other riders failed to complete the race.

In the 80km race, Yusnar Yusup from Bukit Kiara Club crossed the finishing line in 6:25:30s to outpace 12 other riders to emerge winner.

Muhamad Arif Samsuri from Kuala Lumpur City Hall finished a close second when he clocked 6:39:16s followed by Azman Mat Ripin from DIET who registered 7:16:24s in the third place.

National Sports Institute director-general Datuk Dr Ramlan Abdul Aziz gave away the prizes.

He said so far 12 national riders qualified for the World Endurance Championship at TIEP in Lembah Bidong in November.

-- BERNAMA

Guatemala goes to the World Endurance Championship.

noreply@blogger.com (Steph Teeter) — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 12:28:00 +0000

Sunday, 27 July 2008 14:44 Barbara Schieber

Guatemala. The Mayan Adventure Ride 2008 - The Ingenio Magdalena Challenge 1st Edition, ended successfully on Sunday the 20th of July.

The Mayan Ride 2008 proved that Guatemala can stage an event that is up to the highest international standards, classifying international riders for their participation in world wide events of Endurance. This event places Guatemala at the vanguard of the whole region with the capacity to develop this equestrian discipline with the participation of excellent riders, FEI approved judges, veterinarians and officials.

Several months ago, Jinetes de Aventura Endurance - Endurance Adventure Riders, decided to organize a qualifying event for the Malaysia Endurance World Championship 2008. The decision to hold the event was based on several factors. The Guatemalan Endurance Riders had performed very well at many international events and they had a good chance to qualify. Guatemala has geographical regions and climatological conditions that are very similar to Malaysia. If the riders could successfully finish the race in theses conditions they would have a good chance to perform in Malaysia.

[More ...]

Anna Tarnowska Wins Young Rider Championship of Poland

noreply@blogger.com (Endurance.Net) — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 03:46:00 +0000

Anna Tarnowska riding Bader won the 2008 Young Rider Championship of Poland

Complete Coverage on EnduranceEurope.net

Malaysia Endurance circuit: Mohd Azizie earns second COC

noreply@blogger.com (Steph Teeter) — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 00:48:00 +0000

New Straits Times
By : Ajitpal Singh

photo: Yusnar Yusup (left) and Nazulki Muda pose with their plaques after winning the 80km category and 160km respectively in the Malaysia Endurance Circuit Series Three at the Terengganu International Endurance Park yesterday. ? PIC: SAIFULLIZAN TAMADI

ALTHOUGH, Mohd Azizie Ismail only finished second in the Malaysia Endurance Circuit Series Three yesterday, he was the biggest winner as he earned his second Certificate of Capability (COC) which qualifies him for the World Endurance Championships on Nov 6-9.
Mohd Azizie, who represented the Tengku Mahkota of Kelantan Equestrian Club (TMKEC), completed the 160km-race at the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP) in 12:43:20s astride Janor Fee.

The 24-year-old had earned his first COC in the event's Series Two in May at the same venue.

"It's great to qualify for the world meet. The race was tough as it was raining heavily today (yesterday). I'm lucky to be one of the only three competitors to finish the race," said Azizie, who pocketed RM3,000.

Azizie is the 12th Malaysian to qualify for the world meet. The quota offered to Malaysia is 12.
However, in the event that more than 12 locals qualify by the Aug 21 qualification deadline, a special trial will be held by the National Sports Institute before submitting the final list on Oct 1 to the Federation Equestrian International (FEI).

Currently, there are about 10 riders with a single COC competing in several tournaments in Argentina and Australia, gunning for the second certificate.

Only those with two COCs on a single horse qualify for the world meet.

The winner of the Series Three event was Darul Iman Endurance Team's (DIET) Nazulki Muda, astride Indiana Rose, who clocked 12:43:53s, while third place went to TEMKC's Zainuddin Yusof on Texas in 13.08.23s.

In the 80km category, Bukit Kiara Equestrian Club's (BKEC) Yusnar Yusop on Two Step clocked 6:25:30s to win from Kuala Lumpur City Hall's Muhd Arif Samsuri, astride Nagawangsa (6:39:16s). DIET's Azman Mat Rifin on Kelkette Park Dual (7:16:24) was third.

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Thetford Endurance Race in England.

noreply@blogger.com (Endurance.Net) — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 15:28:00 +0000

BAHRAIN'S Royal Endurance team, led by Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, will today be taking part in the Thetford Endurance Race in England.

The event will consist of two categories - a 120-kilometre race and a 160km competition.

Shaikh Nasser, who won Thetford's 160km event last year, yesterday decided to take part in the 120km race this time. The Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (Breef) president had his horse 'Sprite' undergo official medical check-ups yesterday conducted by the International Federation of Equestrian Sports (FEI).

Shaikh Nasser has also already secured his qualification for the 160km category in the FEI World Endurance Championship, which is scheduled to take place in Terengganu, Malaysia in November later this year.

Meanwhile, it is still unsure if Breef first vice-president Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa will be taking part in today's race; it will depend on the schedule of his ongoing studies in the UK.

Set to compete alongside him is Breef first vice-president Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, who will be riding 'Sebastian'.

The kingdom's other participants include Shaikh Daej bin Salman Al Khalifa who will be riding 'Wishky', Yousef Taher riding 'Canada Coy', Mohammed Abdulaziz riding 'Kafir', Mohammed Al Thawadi on 'Ciscada', and Lorent Mosti from the technical team riding 'Bisk'.

The event will be the Bahrain's third participation for the season. The first was the Bahrain Cup in England, while the second race was in Austria.

Riders representing the UAE will also be participating in the race. They will be led by UAE vice-resident and Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum along with Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Qatari riders are other entrants from the Gulf.

Original Article