The Gila Chapter of Back Country Horsemen are sponsoring a Competitive Trail Ride sanctioned by the North American Trail Ride Conference on April 22-24 on the 67,000 acre NAN Ranch in Faywood, NM.

A NATRC competitive trail ride is a timed event with distances ranging from 20 miles for Novice Division to 30 miles for Open Division. Two judges for the event include a veterinarian and an accomplished distance rider, both NATRC-approved judges.

A Competitive Trail Ride is not a race. The time allotted to finish can be accomplished by walking and extended trotting over a course with varied terrain and natural obstacles. Awards for horses and mules are given for soundness, condition, trail ability, and manners.

Riders vie for awards recognizing their horsemanship skill in rating their mount's speed based on the terrain, safety, and their ability to finish the course with their equine in excellent condition and totally sound.

All entries will receive scorecards at the end with objective judging numbers and helpful comments. Ribbons will be awarded 1-6 place for horse and horsemanship in heavyweight, lightweight and junior classes in both Divisions.

For information on entering, contact Ride Secretary, Charlen Perez at charlensvc@gmail.com Entries must be received by April 8.
Contact www. natrc.org for general information about competitive trail riding and rules of the sport.