DANIELLE Coulson from Northallerton is celebrating a fantastic season of endurance riding with her gelding Euphoria's Quest (Oscar).

A nervous, "terrified of humans" Oscar was saved by Danielle's grandfather, Ken Smith, from a trip to the slaughter house at just two years old. He quickly became a member of the Coulson clan, carrying Danielle through Pony Club and the hunting field.

Over the years Danielle heard about endurance riding from Sylvia Briggs and joined the Durham and Teesside group of GB endurance three years ago. "Since then I have never looked back" she said. "I love endurance, as does Oscar. Although he can sometimes be temperamental, he tries his heart out every time and has the will to win".

In the first year of graded rides, the two of them achieved seven Grade 1 finishes, and in the last two years they have won five 50-mile endurance races.

In 2003 they came third at the Lindum Spirit ride in Lancashire and first at the Alnwick ride in both 2003 and 2004.

2004 has proved to be their year as they won back-to-back 50-miles races; Dykeries in Nottingham, Alnwick and Cirencester.

"My favourite and best race was actually when I came forth at the Scottish Championships" said Danielle, "the atmosphere was amazing and the ride had the most stunning views I have seen," she added.

"My crew are my family. My parents and grandparents all play a vital part in my success. Without them I couldn't do this." Danielle said her sister Samantha was even at university studying sports therapy, so she would soon have her own masseur.

The 20-year-old trains on the gallops at Middleham and up on the Kilburn moors. "I always have to travel, but it is worth it," she said.

Danielle is riding in the Red Dragon Race in Wales at the beginning of October, representing the North. After a short break to rest up, Danielle and Oscar will be seen on the hunting field.

"Hunting keeps him fit and gets his heart rate up over long distances, not to mention the socializing skills he acquires, "she explained.

"As long as there is hunting, I shall be out there".

For past three years the Hexham endurance race has been a bogey event with Danielle failing to finish on each occasion. "My goal is to complete the Hexham ride and compete in The Golden Horseshoe and over in France," she said.

With the sheer determination and hard work that she puts into her endurance training, no doubt these goals will not be too far out of reach.

Flooding leads to different route

THE Durham and Teesside Group of EGB ran their annual training ride at Raby Castle.

The route had to be altered because of flooding of the disused railway lines normally used. But the alternative route proved to be a winner with thanks to Cragg Top Farm for allowing the use of their land.

Considering the terrible weather leading up to the ride the organisers were pleased the ride was able to go ahead and the going was superb.

Thanks to the Raby Estate, all the farmers and the volunteers who kindly gave up their time to man gates etc.

A special thank you also to Richard, Craig and Julie from Quadtech who were a great help marking the route for us on their quad bikes.

There are only two rides left for the group this season Lartington Training Ride 25km and Broompark near Durham 19km or 32km. Enquiries to: Sylvia Briggs 0191 3789544 or visit the web site www.durhamandteesside.org.uk where entry forms can be downloaded.

Fastest and in best condition

The Cumbria Group of Endurance GB held their Reagill Ride incorporating the Cumbria Challenge on Sunday, August 29.

The venue had to be changed from Whitefold Farm, Reagill, to Park Farm near Oddendale at the last minute due to water-logged fields in Reagill. The damage to the fields would have been too great to repair.

The ride itself was well attended with 120 riders entered. They battled through torrential rain and strong winds. Despite the weather conditions, excellent grades were achieved in all of the five graded ride classes

The Cumbria Challenge 82km endurance race saw only six starters with three finishers.

First past the post was Tracy Thomson riding Bo Busk Echo, but unfortunately they were eliminated on a high pulse rate at the last vet check, leaving the young Zara Moon riding Yamavar the winner, with an overall average speed of 16.06kph.

Yamavar also picked up the prize for the Best Condition. In second place was Tessa Walmsley riding Doracina Valiant Be, with an average riding speed of 16.01kph, and finally in third place was Cheryl Wallace riding Just Luck, with an average speed of 13.39kph.

Published: 01/10/2004