Endurance & CTR

Explore the Countryside - One Hoofbeat at a Time

Endurance riding is one of the fastest-growing equestrian sports in the world—and it’s easy to see why. There’s simply no better way to experience the beauty of the countryside than from the back of a fit, willing horse.

While horses have long been ridden over great distances for transport and necessity, endurance riding as a sport began in 1913 in Vermont, USA. The most iconic event in the sport’s history is the Tevis Cup, which started in 1955 when Wendell Robie and fellow riders travelled over 100 miles (160km) across the rugged Sierra Nevada in under 24 hours. This ride remains one of the toughest endurance challenges in the world due to the extreme altitude, terrain, and temperatures.

Endurance riding made its way to Europe in the 1960s and was officially recognized by the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) in 1978, with horse welfare placed at the heart of the sport’s rules and regulations.

What is Endurance Riding?

Endurance riding is a timed competition covering distances between 40km and 160km, usually completed in a single day. For those starting out or seeking a more relaxed pace, introductory rides under 40km are also offered.

The goal is simple: to complete the course as quickly as possible while ensuring the horse remains “fit to continue.” Horses are checked by veterinarians at several points throughout the ride. These vet checks include assessments of heart rate, hydration, soundness, and overall metabolic health. Mandatory rest breaks—called holds—are built into the ride for recovery and monitoring.

One of the most inclusive equestrian sports, men and women, young and old, compete equally, often as families, riding side by side.

What is CTR (Competitive Trail Riding)?

CTR is a complementary discipline that combines precision with horsemanship. Rather than racing to the finish, CTR challenges riders to complete a marked trail in an optimum time while maintaining their horse’s lowest possible heart rate.

Ideal for riders who can’t train for high-speed endurance distances, CTR typically involves courses of 10–40km, with Championship-level rides extending up to 75km.

Horses undergo a pre-ride veterinary inspection, and are scored on:

  • Heart rates at the finish line and during recovery (within 30 minutes),

  • Timing (penalties for finishing too early or too late),

  • Overall soundness and wellbeing.

The horse with the lowest combined score (heart rate + time penalties) wins.

Many riders participate in both disciplines, enjoying the diversity and challenge they offer.

Endurance & CTR in New Zealand

In New Zealand, Endurance & CTR is one of the disciplines under Equestrian Sports NZ. Regional clubs play a key role in organizing rides and providing support to riders of all experience levels.

If you’re in the Bay of Plenty, your closest regional group is the Waikato Endurance Club, which offers fantastic benefits like forest access in the Tokoroa area for members.

👉 Waikato Endurance Club | Endurance and Trail riding
👉 Waikato Endurance Club | Facebook
👉 Endurance & CTR | ESNZ

Distance Riding New Zealand (DRNZ)

Another excellent option for New Zealand riders is Distance Riding New Zealand (DRNZ). DRNZ welcomes everyone—from grassroots riders to distance challengers—with events suited to all ages, abilities, and breeds.

They offer:

  • Ride to Time (RTT) events

  • Enduro events

  • A supportive, fun atmosphere

  • A strong commitment to horse welfare

Whether you're after a casual ride with friends or a serious challenge, DRNZ has something for you. Their events take you across some of the most spectacular terrain New Zealand has to offer.

👉 Visit DRNZ Online

Distance Riding New Zealand - Home

If you're looking to get involved, we recommend reaching out to your local club or regional contact—they’re a great place to start your journey into endurance or CTR riding.