RIDERS and horses will this weekend venture to the central-west village of Tooraweenah for the local endurance riding club’s annual event.

Tooraweenah’s endurance ride is one of the most popular on the NSW Endurance Riders’ calendar and the stunning views makes it easy to see why.

The rides take place beneath the spectacular Warrumbungle mountain range, starting at the  from the Tooraweenah Showground.

More than 50 entries have so far been received in six rides.

Endurance riding is the sport for everyone and any horse, with equine welfare the main focus.

This weekend’s event has a wide range of rides for a variety of participants.

There’s a seven and 20 kilometre introductory ride on Saturday, April 26, for those who want to try the sport, as well as a 40km intermediate ride for more experienced riders.

Sunday, April 27, will also have a 40km ride as well as a competitive 80 kilometre ride.

Tooraweenah Endurance Club secretary Sonia Bonham said the club expects between 80 and 100 horse and rider combinations this weekend.

Shelly Jones on Shellal Blood Moon and Kylie Jonkers on Girilambone Usain shared line honours in last year’s 80km event (Image: Jo Arblaster from Animal Focus).

“People love the views; beautiful scenery in private property and National Parks throughout the Warrumbungle Mountains. There’s no traffic, no bitumen roads,” Ms Bonham said.

“There is a friendly country atmosphere, great amenities and CWA cooking.

“The Tooraweenah ride is a unique opportunity to ride through tracks no-one else gets to experience.

“It has an outback country feel with no stress; it is laid-back and fun,” she said.

For more information or to enter, visit www.aeraonline.com.au

For more information on endurance riding in New South Wales and to view coming rides across New South Wales, visit www.nswera.asn.au.

Tooraweenah Endurance Ride

When: April 26-27

Where: Tooraweenah Showground (between Coonabarabran and Gilgandra)

Ride Base Open: Friday, April 25 at 8am to 5pm, Monday, April 28

(Camping area adjacent to showground)

Information: Sonia Bonham on 0428 550909

Email: [email protected]