The American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was founded in 1972 as a national governing body for long distance riding. Over the years it has developed a set of rules and guidelines designed to provide a standardized format and strict veterinary controls. At the same time it has sought to avoid the rigidity and complexity so characteristic of many other equine disciplines.

From its beginnings in the American West, the AERC has spread roots both nationally and internationally. The AERC sanctions hundreds of rides each year throughout North America.

In addition to promoting the sport of endurance riding, the AERC encourages the use, protection, and development of equestrian trails, especially those with historic significance. Many special events of four to six consecutive days take place over historic trails, such as the Pony Express Trail, the Outlaw Trail, the Chief Joseph Trail, and the Lewis and Clark Trail. The founding ride of endurance riding, the Western States Trail Ride or “Tevis Cup,” covers 100 miles of the famous Western States and Immigrant Trails over the Sierra Nevada Mountains. These rides promote awareness of the importance of trail preservation for future generations and foster an appreciation of our American heritage.

AERC Mission Statement: To promote, encourage and regulate the safe use of equines in organized distance events, demonstrating their inherent endurance abilities in a natural setting through the development, use and preservation of trails.  Further, AERC shall maintain permanent records of sanctioned competition results and awards, to ensure that all events are conducted in a safe, fair and consistent manner, and to actively promote and conduct educational efforts and scientific research to foster a high standard of safety and enjoyment for all participants.  Of foremost priority is the understanding that all competitive goals of the rider must remain secondary to the welfare and inherent abilities of the equines under their care, and AERC’s mission shall be to attract and reward members who ensure their equines’ immediate and long-term physical and emotional health and well-being as their highest priority. AERC shall commit to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all its members, staff, volunteers, and vendors without discrimination in any of its activities or operations.

AERC Vision Statement: To be the preeminent authority and leader in developing and promoting the sport and pastime of endurance riding in the United States, Canada, and throughout the world.

AERC Strategic Plan: Originally adopted in 2015 and revised in 2022 by the AERC Board of Directors. View the 2022 Strategic Plan here: AERC 2022 Strategic Plan.

AERC Bylaws: AERC Bylaws were updated in 2021 by a vote of the membership.

Articles of Incorporation: This link includes both the 2001 and original 1972 versions of the Articles of Incorporation filed with the State of California.

Accommodations for Persons with Disabilities: If possible, AERC will make accommodations for persons with disabilities. Click to see the AERC Policy on the ADA, revised in February 2021.

Code of Conduct: Please review our Code of Conduct.

Privacy Policy: We may share your contact information with our trusted partners.

Refund Policy: Handled on a case by case basis – please contact the office if you have any questions.

2022 AERC Animal Welfare Statement, posted 12/13/2022.

Office Policy Regarding Members Joining Board Teleconference Calls

Note: AERC Board of Directors in-person meetings are held during the AERC convention and at mid-year. Phone conference calls are typically held the second Monday of other months. Contact the AERC office to confirm meeting dates.

1. Request to join the call via email to the executive director (executivedirector@aerc.org).
2. You must use the Zoom App or Zoom website to access the call.
3. Registration information will be sent to you. You must register in advance – by 3:00 p.m. Pacific time at least three days before the call; for example, by 3:00 p.m. on Friday prior to a Monday call. No late registrations permitted.
4. Each member must register separately.
5. Dial-in for the call at least 10 minutes before the call-time (usually 6:00 pm Pacific Time) so the board is able to begin on time. You will be placed in listen-only mode.
6. If the board goes into executive session your sound will be turned off; however, once the session ends sound will resume.

AERC Board of Directors Conflict of Interest Statements: Click to see the AERC Board Conflict of Interest Statements.

Publication Guidelines. Articles for Endurance News and AERC Extra which are of a veterinary nature or those that, in the opinion of the AERC office staff, require approval by those more expert in the field, will be passed along to the Veterinary Committee Chair and/or Veterinary Committee for review. With all article submissions, the AERC office staff reserves the right to consult other committees and/or individuals with expertise in the subject matter for review. Submission of an article to Endurance News does not guarantee publication. Articles approved for publication will be edited for content, grammar/punctuation, and to fit the available space. (May 2019)

Membership Effective Date: The date you purchase your membership is the date your membership becomes effective. Likewise, the date an equine is registered with AERC is the date that horse registration becomes effective.

AERC Ride Season: The AERC ride year begins December 1 and continues through November 30. Membership in AERC is by the ride season and is not prorated.