Upcoming Fundraiser

The Sam Houston Trails Coalition is sponsoring a competitive trail ride (CTR), the 7IL Scamper, to be held on March 4-6, 2022 at the beautiful 7IL Ranch near Cat Spring, Texas. All profits will go to the Equestrian Element to help build out the next phase of the Richards-Raven Equestrian Trail (16 miles of trail with multiple bridges and culverts).

WHAT IS COMPETITIVE TRAIL RIDING?

A competitive trail ride (CTR) is a competitive distance event over a measured distance and completed within a window of time. More simply, is it one of the long distance events done on horseback.

The 7IL Scamper CTR is sanctioned by the North American Trail Ride Conference (NATRC). NATRC sanctions long distance competitive trail rides and clinics for riders of all equine breeds and disciplines in six regions throughout North America. The organization promotes safety, sportsmanship, education, and trail horse care through qualified evaluation of horse and rider by veterinary and horsemanship judges, in a fun, family-friendly environment. NATRC also offers educational events to provide continuing education year-round.

To really get into the nitty-gritty of what competitive trail riding is all about, go to www.natrc.org. Here you will learn:

• Details on what competitive trail riding is

• How to prepare for a CTR

• What to pack/bring with you

• What the judges are looking for

• Understanding pulse and respiration checks

• How to time your ride

• Which division is right for you

• The NATRC Rule Book

• CTR Basics - FAQ.

New to the sport? Want to just get your feet wet? Enter the Leisure Division. It is a 1 day event of 8-12 miles at an average pace of 3-4.5 mph. Looking for a little more? Enter Novice or Competitive Pleasure. Here you can choose a 1 OR 2 day format. The 1 day format is 15-24 miles while the 2 day format is 30-40 miles. Want to go father? Enter Open where you will go 50-60 miles over 2 days.

For more information on this event, download the Ride Info Sheet. If you join NATRC (new member), you receive your first year of membership free!! NATRC members receive discounts on rides, real-time score tracking, awards eligibility, plus more. To register for this event, go to https://rms.natrc.net. So come on out and join the fun!!!

Any questions, please contact equestrian@samhoustontrails.com.