Starting
Out
Decided that you want to try Endurance but you're unsure where to start?
You've come to the right spot! Please browse the resources below for more information on the wonderful sport of Endurance Horse Riding. There's also a New Rider Info Brochure which is full of useful information before your first event. All new members of Endurance NSW receive a 24 page Starting Out in Endurance publication to help them when new to the sport. Membership is Half Price from 1st July and we have loads of rides still on the calendar so there's never been a better time to join up.
-
Do I need to be a member before my first ride?No! There are options to join as a "Day Member" for Introductory and Intermediate rides (5km - 60km) This is paid for when you enter the event and select "Day Membership". It is ideal for your first ride but it is more economical if entering a few rides/events over the season to take out Intermediate Membership.
-
How do I become a member of NSW or a Zone?All Endurance NSW membership is now online at AERAonline.com.au If you are brand new to the sport and do not have an AERAonline account, please chat to our Registrar first: 4938 0081, or email registrar@nswera.info to be set up in our database. To become a member of a local Zone or Endurance Club please contact your local endurance Club or Zone.
-
What level of membership do I need?Adult Riding · Full level of membership is for people turning 18 years or older in the current calendar year. · Holding this membership allows you to enter any ride distance providing Novice requirements have been met · Entitled to vote at the NSW AGM Junior Riding · Junior full membership for people under the age of 18 years in the current calendar year · Holding this membership allows you to enter any ride distance providing Novice requirements have been met · Juniors are not entitled to vote at the NSW AGM Intermediate Riding · Intermediate membership for people of any age · Holding this membership allows you to enter any Introductory* or Intermediate** ride · Not entitled to vote at the NSW AGM Associate Membership · For non-riding members, ie owners, trainers, volunteers · This membership does NOT allow you to enter in any ride without Day Membership · Not entitled to vote at the NSW AGM Family Membership · A family membership bulk discount is available for one or two adults and any dependent children under the age of 18 years in the current calendar year residing at the same address · Adult and Junior membership entitlements as above Day Membership · Available for a person who does not hold any of the above memberships · Holding this membership allows you to enter any Introductory* or Intermediate** ride · Only valid for a single ride · Not entitled to vote at the NSW AGM Personal Accident Insurance · An optional insurance policy for riding members – full details of the current policy available at www.aera.asn.au/insurance-page/
-
What does it cost to be a member?Adult Riding - $170 Junior Riding - $120 Intermediate Riding - $125 Family Membership - $400 Associate Membership - $20 Day Membership - $30/ day Personal Accident Insurance - $150 Adult - $39 Junior We do have promotional offers on membership during the year - so keep an eye out for those to save some dollars.
-
Do I need my own horse?If you don't have your own horse but would like to give Endurance a try - contact our Mentor Program Coordinator! There are often teams or individuals with more than one horse who might be able to help you get started.
-
Can I come to a ride to see what it's like first?Yes! Check the calendar for an event close by and contact the Ride Secretary to find out more - volunteering is a great way to learn or simply come along and observe.
-
Want to find out more?Read our handy tips on training, what to pack for an event, on course etiquette and more in our Rider Information Pack: There are also You Tube videos at the bottom of our Starting Out page on the website, and the AERA website has a lot of helpful information as well: https://aera.asn.au/index.php/guides/startingendurance/your-first-training-ride If you still have a question and can't find the answer, try asking the question in our Facebook group or contact NSW Endurance at registrar@nswera.info. There are no silly questions, so don't hesitate to contact us!
Mentorship
Guidance & Friendship to get you started
Endurance NSW has several experienced endurance rider Mentor groups. For more information you can check out their Facebook pages. These are casual social groups. Not affiliated rides so you are not insured unless you have your own riding insurance or become a NSWERA MEMBER and take out insurance.
​
Sydney: Zone 1: Hills & Hawkesbury Social Endurance Riders Community
​
Newcastle Area: Newcastle & Surrounds Endurance & Trails
​
South Coast Zone Endurance Association: Have 4 Mentor members that covers Berry, Falls Creek, Wandandian & Moruya
Volunteer
A great way to experience an Endurance Ride before attending with your horse.
Check out the calendar for an event close by and contact the Ride Secretary to find out more - volunteering is a great way to learn or simply come along and observe!
