Riders are what endurance is all about. Whether you’re brand new to the sport or have been riding for years, there’s a place for you at a VERA ride — from short, relaxed introductory rides through to full 80km+ endurance rides.
Pick the right ride for you
- Introductory rides — under 40km and non-competitive, a relaxed way to see how a ride works
- Intermediate rides — usually 40–60km, also non-competitive
- Endurance rides — competitive, 80km or more in a day
The New to Endurance guide explains each ride type in more detail. VERA also runs a Training Ride Challenge and an Introductory Training Challenge — you’ll find both policies in the Policies section.
Getting started, step by step
- Join VERA. Sign up or renew through AERAOnline — see Become a Member for the membership classes.
- Read the guide and the rules. Start with New to Endurance, then have a look at the AERA Rules & Policies.
- Get a logbook for your horse. Logbook applications go to the Logbook Registrar — the forms are in the Forms section.
- Try an introductory or intermediate ride. It’s the easiest way to see how vetting, timing and camp life work before you commit to a longer distance.
- Work your way up. The guide explains how riders and horses qualify for longer endurance rides.
Find a ride and enter
Browse upcoming rides on the Ride Calendar or see open ride entries for Victoria. Most rides ask you to pre-nominate with the Ride Organiser ahead of time — the ride flyer will say how. Flyers and updates are also shared in the VERA Facebook group.
Safety and insurance
Approved riding helmets must be worn whenever you’re mounted at an affiliated ride. Riders and club activities are covered under the AERA insurance policy, and the club’s Horse Welfare Policy (in the Policies section) puts the horse’s wellbeing first.
Points, awards and results
Once you’re riding, your results count towards yearly points and distance awards — see Results & History.
Who to ask
Wendy Riha – Membership Registrar
Email: memberships@vicera.com.au
Phone: 0414 358 585
Bronwyn Cuthbertson – Logbook Registrar
Email: logbooks@vicera.com.au
Phone: 0400 677 005