Moving Up to Longer Distances: Preparing for a 100-Mile Ride
AERC National Championship 100-Mile Ride, Fort Valley, VA. Photo by C. Mike Tomlinson, DVM
The real challenge in endurance riding is in the longer rides and they are not as difficult as you might imagine.
A 100 is a totally different experience than a 50-miler. Of necessity you have a different strategy on a longer ride. The adrenalin 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)
Here are some 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)
Updated 9/24/18