As the first event of the 2023 season, the Stirling’s Crossing education weekend focus was on providing opportunities for riders to get back in the saddle to start preparation for Tom Quilty Gold Cup in June.
Yet it was also about providing introductory and intermediate rides for those riders just finding their endurance seat.
The weather at the weekend was warm but nomination numbers were great.
As horse and rider teams were preparing to set out on the 10km and 20km rides on Saturday there was the ominous sound of thunder rumbling and the occasional flash of lightning.
The various weather apps were compared and it was decided that schedule could continue as planned.
The light shower that came on just as riders were mustering to ride out, broke the heat and provided a more comfortable riding environment.
There were 27 competitors in the 20km ride with an 85 per cent completion rate achieved.
Minimum ride times had been set a little bit longer than usual for that distance to allow for the anticipated heat and completion rates reflected that riders were riding to the conditions as well as taking care of their horses.
What had been advertised as a 10km ride ended up being 14km to allow for a diversion due to works still going on in the Imbil State Forest to repair damage caused by floods last year.
All nominees accepted the extended distance with good grace and 26 riders headed out – some on their first ever ride, while some were there to accompany and support new riders to the sport. Again a great completion rate at 96 per cent.
Sunday morning rides were a 40km, starting at 5.30am, and a 20km starting at 6am. Entries and completion rates were 45 and 88 per cent, and 18 and 77 per cent.
There are no place-getters in introductory and intermediate rides but there are winners who have successfully guided their horse to a completion status, the aim of the sport being: To complete is to win.
