Pre-Ride Checklist
The pre-ride checklist isn't complicated, especially if you're just doing a one-day ride. The good news is that, if you forget anything, there's likely someone who will have something to loan/give you just in case. That's just how endurance riders are!
Choosing your Ride
Choose your ride based on the terrain and ride itself. Some days are longer, harder, better footing, faster, more technical, prettier, wetter, sandier, higher elevation climb, or more one interesting, etc. Ask the manager and talk about which days are best for you. And they'll usually be able to tell you which days are busier too
To-Do's
What to bring
Choosing your Ride
Choose your ride based on the terrain and ride itself. Some days are longer, harder, better footing, faster, more technical, prettier, wetter, sandier, higher elevation climb, or more one interesting, etc. Ask the manager and talk about which days are best for you. And they'll usually be able to tell you which days are busier too
To-Do's
- Condition and prepare your horse (and you!)
- Select a ride with a location, date, distance, and terrain that fits you and your horse
- Read the ride flyer and/or website thoroughly
- Register/Pay for the ride (each ride manager differs - check the ride flyer for how/when to pay)
- Locate exactly where you're going (make sure you understand the directions), when, and any stops you'll need to make along the way
- Determine how you'll camp (check the flyer for any restrictions)
- Get health certification, coggins and vaccinations if required (check state laws)
- Get brand inspection if required (check state laws)
- Get weed-free certified hay if required
- Pack the truck and trailer
What to bring
- On Facebook: What are the essentials? What are some of the "have to have" items? I'm so scared that I'll show up for my first race and not have something that I need!
- Crew Bag: Karen Chaton wrote an excellent blog post about how she packs her crew bag. Don't know what a crew bag is? Check out Crews and Crewing!