A 100 is a totally different experience than a 50-miler. Of necessity you have a different strategy on a longer ride. The adrenaline pumps just as much or more at the beginning but as the day goes on you can relax some of your competitiveness and, if you are lucky, start moving up in the ride. If you are ready, try a 100-miler this year — your horse will probably surprise you and you may just surprise yourself. (AERC Vice President Tom Van Gelder, 1981)

Resources to get you started in your quest for a 100-mile ride:

100s for the Rest of Us, by Patti Stedman

Ride to Your Strengths and Train Out Your Weaknesses, by Kim Fuess

Riding Smarter, Not Faster, by Kim Fuess

Negative Splits Can Improve Performance, by Kim Fuess

Strategies for Tough 100 Mile Rides, by “Jayel Super” (Stagg Newman’s horse)

Tevis Cup Recommendations for Riders (although geared for the Western States Endurance Ride/Tevis Cup, these recommendations are worth a read)