Getting started in Endurance

["guest@endurance.net" <guest@endurance.net>]

Amanda Perez RescueReader@ureach.com
  I am planning to get a horse in the not-too-distant future, and would like to find out more about competitive endurance riding - if it looks like something I'd enjoy, I'll look for an endurance prospect.  Here are my questions:
1.  Any groups/clubs in the VA/MD/PA area?
2.  I'd like to volunteer at a ride to get an up-close view of how they work: any tips.leads on how to find a ride and who to contact?
3.  I work full-time, and in the winter, short daylight-hour will make training difficult.  How many hours do those of you who compete put in off-season?  Anyone else out there who is doing this in their 'spare time'?  How do you manage winter training?

Please respond to RescueReader@ureach.com
Thanks