Minnesota Distance Riding Association

A smile with every mile...

Our Events

MnDRA was formed to promote distance riding in the Upper Midwest, giving recognition to horse and rider teams.  Events sponsored in Minnesota are Competitive, Limited Distance, and Endurance. 

Hover over or tap on over each photo for more information.

Endurance

A ride between 50 to 100 miles in a day, with the first horse to cross the finish line while also meeting completion requirements, wins.

Limited Distance

A 25, 30, or 35 mile event where the first horse to cross the finish line and meet pulse criteria, while also meeting completion requirements, wins.

Competitive Trail

While riding or driving, competitive rides are completed within an ideal finish time. Horse fitness is evaluated and the best conditioned horse wins.

Why Distance Ride?

Partnership. Trust. Dedication

Camping

Companionship

Competition

Announcements

Charity Cup 2023 Info:

Camping is non-reservable. Just show up and we will find you a place! There is no potluck BUT we will have a food truck available from 5-7 p.m. on Friday from Sugar Shack BBQ😋. Online preregistration closes Tuesday, September 5th at 10 pm. We also accept registrations in camp if

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MnDRA sanctions the following rides for the 2023 season and MnDRA members can earn points towards year-end recognition and awards. Four of these rides (highlighted in yellow) are financially sponsored by MnDRA and are the primary fundraiser for year-end awards.

Each ride has a separate page on this website which contains detailed information, ride flyers, and more.  To access that, simply click on the ride name in the schedule below or from the top menu of this page.

New in 2023

Huntersville Hundred is proud to be the venue for the 2023 Distance National Championships.
Dakota Dash is a new ride located in eastern North Dakota.
Bearfoot Boogie is cancelled for 2023 but will return in 2024.
Trade River Run has new ride managers.

Would you like a PDF of the schedule?  CLICK HERE

MnDra offers year end awards to members.
Points and Awards

Are you new to Distance riding?

Mndra loves to help new riders!  Hover over each photo for a few ways to help get you started.  Click on the photo to open a document or follow a link.

New Rider Handbook

This is an excellent introduction into distance riding and covers many subjects including what to expect at a ride, conditioning and feeding your horse, and much more.

Click the button below to download a copy.

Volunteer

Want an up-close and personal view of this sport? Volunteer at an upcoming ride. Help is often needed and you'll gain first hand experience of many aspects of being a distance rider. No experience is necessary! Click the button below to learn more about what to do (or not to do) when volunteering.

Find a mentor

There are many experienced people that want to see you succeed.

Many mentors are available online through the use of various Facebook groups. Be sure to check out the links for more resources.

Attend a Clinic

MnDRA often hosts an Intro to Distance Riding Clinic each spring which may includes a short 'mock' ride that follows the competitive trail riding rules.

Throughout the year, most rides have a novice event, which is a ride between 10-15 miles long. An experienced leader will be assigned to your group. It's a perfect way for someone to see if this sport is for you.

Helpful Links

The AERC – American Endurance Ride Conference is the national organization of endurance riding. They have several educational videos available on YouTube. 

 

There are also many groups on Facebook that help out new riders. The term “Green Beans” has been coined to describe a new rider to endurance. Consider joining in on the discussion.

Need more help? Contact us!