I’ve only ever tackled this iconic ride once but it is one of my favourite ever Endurance memories. The entries opened this week with classes from pleasure rides of 24km to the big 160km and it’s recently featured in Horse & Hound as a bucket list event. So if you were thinking of doing the Golden Horseshoe, do it!!!!!
The valuable advice I was given before riding it myself and my top tips from my experience are that it is a very exposed ride, so whatever weather you get, you really do feel it. Pack for every eventuality. I rode it on one of those rare sunny weekends, and it was roasting hot. But equally, I’ve heard of all the seasons in one hour so just pack everything!
I did the 160km so there were a fair few gates, I would say you need to be confident either doing them on horseback or getting on and off. Now don’t let that put you off, I promise you that every single gate is worth it!
This ride is iconic for a reason, and it can be tough, this isn’t a high-speed breeze through the National park but if you pace yourself and take every stride as it comes then you’ll have no problem. Take full advantage of a slower pace to look at the stunning scenery and if your lucky like I was say ‘hi’ to the new Exmoor foals.
For more information on the Golden Horseshoe head over to their website and to enter head over to the EGB ride page.
Beth Endurance 