There are lots of pro's to endurance riding. But, since most endurance
riders are masocistic, we don't recognize the con's. Depending on how you
budget you $, it should not cost any more than barrel racing unless you win
at barrels all the time and recoup your expenses in prize money. See,
there is virtually no prize money in endurance riding and there are many
reasons why there should not be any.
My suggestion to you is to volunteer at one or two rides before you go out
and buy the "suitable" horse. The endurance home page has the ride
schedule in your area or you can e-mail me and I'll send you a list of
rides in your area. I think that's really the best way to test the water.
Ask lots of questions at the rides, endurance people love to talk about
their sport. Once you're sold then think about getting a horse. You might
be able to find an experienced rider with an extra horse that needs riding.
Then you could ride with them for awhile to check things out first hand.
Once you get involved and connected, you can find a plethera of ways to get
started in the sport.
Good Luck in your quest.
Linda and Buhni