Helmsley Ride

Despite the gale force winds and a forecast of heavy rain late in the day there was an excellent turn out at Carlton Woods near Helmsley for the annual competitive and pleasure rides organised by the North & East Yorkshire Group of Endurance GB.   This year’s date was 22 June 2008 and the ride took us over part of the Duncombe Park Estate and land owned by Lady Clarissa Collin and the Forestry Commission. The organisers would like to express appreciation to the land owners and tenant farmers who help us to keep this ride going.95 riders were entered  in the six classes offered, with 14 riders covering 40 miles.   Some found it challenging riding in the strong winds with several steep hills and a couple of fords but it  was wonderful with such a variety of tracks, bridleways, hills and above all the most wonderful views of any ride so far.   Riding along Beadlam Rigg the view to the east is for miles and we could see Saltersgate Nab on the far skyline, further into the ride we could see the whole of Bilsdale with typical North Yorkshire unbeatable scenery stretching for miles to the Cleveland Hills and beyond to Captain Cook country.  This is a wonderful ride, with terrific scenery, good marking, friendly stewards and many gate openers and a definite one for next year.  Yes, some may find it challenging but a fit horse should have no problem and it is ideal for raising the fitness level of both horse and rider and giving them the chance to have a go at challenging off road riding with stewards, radio communications, medics, farrier and vets on hand if needed.   Well done to organisers Lesley Hughes and Sarah Martin and their helpers.Rides coming up in August are a Pleasure Ride at Harwood Dale, near Scarborough and the Northern Championships and Pleasure Rides at Dialstone (SuttonBank, Thirsk).


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