Contestants are clocking up forest miles in preparation for the Currowan Endurance Ride at Nelligen on July 5 and 6.
Organiser Jenny Shepheard said the ride offered something for all levels, with 80km, 40km and 20km events, and that new entries were welcome.
Mrs Shepheard said a new ride based on “a flat grassy paddock” was a big improvement on past events.
“We have held two rides in the past and have had access problems so we have a fantastic new ride base,” she said.
“A farmer has kindly given us permission to use a few hundred metres off the Kings Highway on the outskirts of Nelligen, at the start of the River Road.
“There will be a canteen to keep competitors and their family and friends well fed and it is a minute’s drive to Nelligen, where there are cafes, a pub and a holiday park.”
Mrs Shepheard said the event would use some of the tracks from previous events.
“One ride leg winds along the banks of the beautiful Clyde River, along the River Road, all the way to Shallow Crossing and then back,” she said.
“This makes for an almost flat ride leg, with some slight undulation.
“Tracks are dirt roads, good under foot, with freshwater creeks.
“You travel past farmland, forest, rainforest and the river, which is all very pleasant scenery.
“Another leg follows the river for a while, then turns up some less-used dirt roads, through lovely bush and some rainforest.
“This section is still clean and good underfoot, with fresh-water creeks.
“There is some undulation in parts, with an elevation of around 150 metres over the leg.
“There is no tar road, apart from a very short distance entering a couple of the creek crossings.”
Mrs Shepheard said social riders would also have great scenery.
“The 20km social ride will follow the Clyde River, before turning up a bush track and looping back onto the road further along the river,” she said.
“Everyone is welcome, from the experienced endurance rider wanting to take part in the 80km event, to the pony clubber, trail rider or horse enthusiast wanting to see what endurance riding is all about.
“The 40km training ride or the 20km social ride will give them a great taste.”
Day memberships are available for the 20km and 40km rides.
Entrants should nominate in advance.
For details phone Mrs Shepheard on 4478 1089 or email currowan@hotmail.com.
Visit www.nswera.asn.au for information about endurance riding in NSW.
