Do you want to know how to win a competitive trail riding competition?

Competitive Trail Riding, or simply CTR, is a sport on horseback where riders cover a marked trail for a distance that is usually between 15 and 40 miles per day. Some riders only compete for one day, while others may run as long as three days. The main goal of the competitive trail riding is to exhibit functional partnership between the rider and his horse. The competition also measures the fitness of the animal and rider as they cover a long distance. Since this competition is physically taxing to the horse and rider, a thorough examination of horses is done before and after the event. The judges and veterinarians in the event are highly qualified as the safety of competitors and the strictness of scoring are held to high measure.

Essentially, the fittest horse and rider team win the competition. It may seem that the competition is all horse, but nothing is farther from the truth because this is a team event. Not only is it exclusive to the rider and the horse but also other people who assist in conditioning and taking care of the nutrition and well being of the animal. The primary goal is to condition the horse to tiptop shape and fitness, both of mind and body. The rider has the vital role of directing the horse which helps the horse to finish the ride with the least possible stress. Proper commitment is essential for success. The team must be functional at the highest level of mental and physical aspects.

Here are some tips on how to win horse trail riding competitions:

- Horses are fearful creatures by nature. Many things can signal danger to a prey animals such as a horse, so the more the horse is worked with and desensitized, the better. You must be able to determine the things that can scare your horse along the marked trail and prepare the animal accordingly. Desensitizing can be done by giving him pleasant experiences in the face of having the object or situation that frightens him. Exposing him to the situations many times so he knows not to fear the unknown is key. Stimulating the animal in safe environment such as an arena may be a good idea.

- Know your horse and be sensitive to his needs. Familiarize yourself with your horse's every move and reaction. You must also be able to take note and consider old injuries or frights. Before the beginning of the ride, point these things out to the judges because it may be penalized at the end if unnoticed in the beginning. It's your job as a rider to know the animal and keep him healthy and safe.

- Although this competition is more about the horse's fitness, you, as the rider, should also be fit so you are carried by the horse more easily. Train yourself how to administer your weight properly and be sure to take pride in your fitness and knowledge of your mount.

- Be sure that you are dressed comfortably and abide by the rules.

- Comfort is everything in this competition. Make sure that your horse is comfortable with all the equipment involved. Keep your tack clean, repaired and functional to provide safely and comfort for you and the animal on the trail.

- Training is the most important factor. You should work your horse up gradually and systematically. Having a set training regime will help both horse and rider to be at the top of their game. Make sure to train hard and consistently, keeping in mind the animal and human's limitations. Riding about five to seven miles about five days a week over varied terrain is a good start.

- In training, you must be able to vary the footing and ride in different kinds of terrain.

- Get your horse used to people and objects as there will be lots of touching and checking the animal. You do not want any extra anxiety for your horse.

- Get your horse used to different tasting drinking water, both still standing and moving. It's very important that he drinks and eats throughout the day, and commonly a horse won't drink from a water source he's unfamiliar with.

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Do you want trail riding tips?

Horse trail riding is full of fun and adventure. However, it can go bad quickly when you or your horse suffer injuries and other problems on the trail that could have been avoided with proper horse training. Trail riding with your horse can be pleasurable for you and your equine, but it requires preparation and alertness. You must be extremely aware of every detail so your trail ride will go as smoothly as possible. Max the potential of fun and adventure by following these three important guidelines in horse trail riding.

Trail Riding Tip No. 1 - Prepare Properly

Prepping for the trail ride is perhaps the most important procedure. Good fortune comes to those who are prepared. Prior preparation prevents poor performance.

- Preparing the horse includes cleaning the horse's feet with the ever-useful hoof pick. After cleaning and maintaining the feet, make sure that the shoes are tight and comfortable.
- Groom the horse thoroughly particularly on the areas where the tack will touch him. This is to prevent discomfort on the part of the animal.
- The saddle pad should be clean and pulled forward and up over the withers to create air space over withers and back. The saddle pad should perfectly fit the horse.
- Adjust the bridle properly. Make sure that there are no loose straps or pinching. The leathers should be always oiled and in good condition. The halter should be fitting as well.
- If using a halter under the bridle, the lead rope should be coiled and fastened onto the saddle so the horse has room to move it's head.
- Hydrate the horse before starting on the trail.
- You should dress accordingly. It is best to dress in layers, or to bring appropriate gear for any weather. Wear a hat or at least, bring one and apply sunscreen.

Trail Riding Tip No. 2 - Know What To Bring

Trail riding is almost like camping. Here are some things that you should bring with you:

- Current Coggins / health / brand inspection
- Pocket knife
- Insect repellent
- Jacket
- Water
- Hat
- Lip balm
- First aid kit for horses and riders
- Gloves
- Cell Phone in case of emergency
- Form of identification
- Hoof pick
- Fly Spray
- Compass
- String or leather for tack repair
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Snacks
- Rain gear


The things listed are self-explanatory. You should be able to know their purposes, or be riding with an experienced person who knows how to use each piece of equipment.

Trail Riding Tip No. 3 - Follow the Rules On the Trail

Last but not least you should know what to do and not to do when on the trail.

- Even the most trained of horses can get spooked if startled. Therefore, make sure that you are aware of your surroundings. Less surprises, the better.
- A kicking horse should be tied with a red ribbon in the tail.
- Maintain space between you and the next horse.
- Make sure that the horse you are riding is suitable for you in terms of riding skill level and the degree of bond or connection.
- Stay on the trail and never separate with the group. If you want to leave, make sure to inform the group.
- When making a rest stop, loosen the horse's cinch and lift up back of saddle and pad so air can get to his back and cool it.
- Always pay attention to your animal and your surroundings.
- Make way for fellow users of the trail. Be respectful of space and clean up after yourself and your animal.
- Bring a highline or picket for your animals so as not to damage trees.

If you thought this article was helpful, wait 'till we send you our Horse Training DVD It's got many videos on horse trail riding, horse training tips, techniques, and more of EasyHorseTraining.com's acclaimed training methods.

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