HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The North American Trail Ride Conference (NATRCTM) will be holding its second annual trail ride competition April 10-12, 2015 at the Sand Hills State Park northeast of Hutchinson. The event will be held to increase awareness about NATRC and the new equine camping facilities at the park.
A competitive trail ride is a competitive trail event over a measured distance and completed within a window of time. The judging begins at the preliminary examination, usually the day before the ride, continues during the ride, and concludes at the final examination one or two days later. The horses, ponies, and mules are evaluated on condition, soundness and trail manners. Riders are judged on horsemanship as it applies to trail riding and caring for a horse naturally, without drugs or artificial appliances, during and after a day on the trail. The emphasis is on education, safety and sportsmanship in a fun, family-oriented environment.
Camp sites and ride reservations are required and fill up fast. Horses will have their own individual corrals.
For more information, go to www.natrc.org.