The majority said six years old. A few people qualified the age by stating a
minimum of 18 to 24 months of prior conditioning. Others did not give an
age but rather stated that it is dependant upon the individual horse and
rider. Several of you quoted statements you have heard from some of the top
riders and teachers in the sport, with almost everyone citing six or seven
years old being a good time to do a first SLOW 100 miler. Some think 5
years old is old enough if you take it slow, and others think 7 or older is
more appropriate. Some of you are of the opinion that, regardless of age,
the horse needs to have done two seasons of endurance and be able to
complete a 50 mile ride without it being a major undertaking.
Also, a couple of you noted that it is the speed that does the damage, and
not the distance. Make sure you know you are ready, you know your horses is
ready, and don't rely on other peoples opinions.
As with most things involving horses, this is one issue where common sense
is warranted.
I would still like to hear more opinions - I will keep track of them and
update the results of they change.
Happy Trails!!
Karen
in Gardnerville
& Dream Weaver (250 miles)
& Rocky (3 limited distance rides)