Brave riders needed for challenge
Do you enjoy a challenge? Then why not take part in one of the BHS Challenge Rides in 2003
The BHS is offering riders a once in a lifetime chance to experience the Andes mountains inPeru or the amazing landscapes of Iceland on horseback in its 2003 Challenge Rides.
Riders taking up the Inca Challenge will explore the mysterious depths and mountains of the Andes following the Inca trail, which reaches heights of 5,750meters.
Taking place on 7-20 June next year, riders accepting this challenge will need a head for heights and must be fairly fit as leading their horse up and down gradients at altitude will be necessary along the way.
Lara Neighbour, 30, who took part in last year’s ride in Peru, says she would recommend it to anyone.
“It was fantastic, the scenery was gorgeous and the ponies wonderful – so sure-footed and really tough. At night you could see shooting stars and there were some amazing sunrises. It was really well organised and I have stayed in touch with some of the riders I met.”
If you prefer something slightly less strenuous, the Viking Challenge will enable riders to experience the unusual and varied landscapes of Iceland aboard an Icelandic horse.
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These diminutive but sturdy equines have a unique gait, the tolt, which covers the ground as fast as a gallop but so smoothly that you could enjoy a glass of wine without slipping a drop.
During the eight-day expedition, which takes place on 17-24 August, riders will cross glacial rivers, seashores and hills.
These annual rides are organised by the BHS to raise funds for its horse and pony rescue and rehabilitation centre in Warwickshire.
Individuals taking part will need to raise a minimum of £2,800 before April 2003 for the Peru Challenge, and £1,800 before June for the Viking Challenge. A non-refundable registration fee of £350 and £250 respectively is also required.
“Although the fund-raising is hard work, it’s so worthwhile. I would thoroughly recommend taking part in a BHS Challenge Ride and hope to do the Iceland ride myself at some point in the future,” says Lara.
To find out more about the Challenge Rides and for application forms contact Wendy Minor (tel:08701 299992).
Find out more about the BHS Rescue Centre:
Carol is an experienced journalist and editor, who is also a passionate amateur rider and dedicated horse owner, having ridden since childhood. She has a particular interest in the emotional well-being and ethical training of horses, alongside veterinary matters, having garnered extensive first-hand experience of numerous equine health conditions through more than 30 years of horse ownership.