Endurance in France

Endurance Competitions are very well supported in France. It is a highly respected and growing sport with promotion and marketing of competitions on large billboards before events. Those competing for France at International level are (as in most equestrian disciplines in France) held in high esteem and complete respect as athletes, both to horse and rider is afforded. The demands and scientific/technical knowledge required plus the complete rapport between rider and horse and crew are not understated as they may be in other countries from time to time.

FFE Endurance

The FFE website has all the information for affiliated competitions. www.ffe.com/disciplines Search Disciplines and follow the icon.

FFE Endurance Attelage

Endurance riding – Official classes are organized on distances between 20 and 160 km on all types of ground. Horses are judged on two criteria : speed and fitness. Endurance horses are trained in order to run and finish the race with the best physical condition. It is imperative that the rider trains his horse to have enough stamina and resiliance to maintain his potential throughout the race. France is very competitive in International competitions.

Attelage Endurance – The team endurance events are open to all horses, speed tests are imposed in varied terrain. They are designed to evaluate one or more ponies / horses, the leader and his or her team members in various technology applications endurance team, under the best conditions of safety and amenity. They apply in relation with the technical provisions of theEndurance .

Competitions take place throughout the season in France, with certain areas offering more availability for venues. There are both affiliated FFE competitions, FEI International and many Club level. It is one of the eight disciplines within the World Equestrian Games. (see the articles on WEG for Kentucky 2010 reports)

There are various web sites and magazines catering for riders, enthusiasts and spectators at all levels.