Linda Jordan, came third in the challenging 40km Novice/Novice National Championship course in Thetford Forest. Picture: Endurance GB

Amesbury rider secures third place at National Endurance Championships

Jamie JonesAugust 26, 20260 Comment0

AN Amesbury equestrian is celebrating after placing third at the prestigious Hoof Boot Shop National Championships.

Marking a major milestone in her transition from pleasure riding to competitive national endurance, Linda Jordan, completed the challenging 40km Novice/Novice National Championship course in Thetford Forest, in superb form on August 15.

Riding her 16-year-old coloured mare Miss Masquerade, affectionately known as Peanut, the pair demonstrated exceptional pacing and partnership.

In endurance riding, completing the distance is only half the battle; horses must also pass rigorous veterinary checks before and immediately after the ride to ensure they are fit and healthy.

While specific speeds and heart rates vary by horse, Linda and Peanut completed their ride within the required parameters and successfully passed the final vetting in excellent condition, earning their well-deserved podium spot.

The result is particularly impressive given that the region had seen no rain for over two months, creating a dry course with challenging, deep sandy stretches.

What is Endurance Riding?

Endurance riding is the ultimate test of equine fitness, rider strategy, and the bond between horse and rider. Unlike a simple race where the fastest wins, endurance is governed by the motto “to complete is to win.”

Under Endurance GB rules, horses are thoroughly inspected by veterinary teams at the start and finish. Vets check heart rates (pulse recovery), hydration levels, and soundness.

A rider must carefully manage their horse’s effort, especially on varied terrain, ensuring they finish in peak physical condition. It is a sport where horse welfare always comes first.

Reflecting on her podium finish, Linda said: “Endurance is just the best fun. There is no pressure, and everyone in the endurance community is so supportive and friendly.

“You get to see parts of the country that you would otherwise never have the chance to ride through, and it gives me a wonderful reason to keep both Peanut and myself fit.

“I used to only do pleasure rides, but this year, with some encouragement from a friend and lovely feedback from vets and volunteers about how well Peanut was doing, I decided to try competing properly.

“I hadn’t even ridden a distance beyond 35 kilometres until this season, so to come third at the National Championships is just incredible.”

Linda’s achievement is even more remarkable given Peanut’s background. Purchased “from the field” five years ago, the 15 hh coloured mare was highly quirky, opinionated, and initially struggled with basic handling and grooming. Through patience, consistency, and kindness, Linda built a deep bond of trust.

This trust was on full display during the championship ride. Peanut, who historically refused to cross water without Linda dismounting, confidently led other horses through the route’s water crossing. The pair also encountered pigs on the course for the first time, proving that their partnership can handle any unexpected challenge.

Linda credited much of her success to the organisation of the event and the warm community spirit.

“The route was incredibly well marked, and the stewards and helpers were absolutely fantastic,” she said. “Despite the very dry ground conditions, we were able to maintain a great speed overall, only slowing down to navigate the deep sand safely.”

Endurance GB thrives on its supportive network, where seasoned riders, volunteers, and veterinarians work hand-in-hand to make events welcoming and safe for everyone, from grassroots beginners to elite competitors.

Looking ahead, Linda is considering competing in the Novice/Novice Championship again next season, but her main focus remains simple: “Whatever I decide, I will do the rides that I love and see what Peanut and I can achieve together.”