Vision

BCCTRA is a leader in promoting long distance riding opportunities for recreational and competitive equestrian trail riders in western Canada. Our mission is to promote and enhance the sport of competitive trail riding within British Columbia by providing education, training and competition for all levels of equestrians. Although a CTR is not a race, both the timing and pacing of your horse is crucial to succeeding in these events. Pulse, respiration and dehydration are monitored by qualified vets and are important factors used in the final determination of the winning entrants.

Can anyone participate?

Yes! If you have a suitable horse of any breed and you are desiring a new challenge, then you can enter and compete. Competitors are divided into 3 divisions based on a combination of the rider's weight plus all that the horse will be carrying.

1. Lightweight Division: Rider and Tack 140 - 180 lbs

2. Heavyweight Division: Rider and Tack 180 lbs and over

3. Junior Division: 16 years and under as of January 1st of year competing

Note: Juniors 10 and under must be accompanied by a parent or senior supervisor.

Note: In order to enter Level I, horses must be a minimum of 4 years of age. All horses entered in Levels II and III must be a minimum of 5 years of age.

Is my horse suitable for CTR?

Any type or breed of horse can compete in CTR. The only requirement being that the horse is sound and sufficiently conditioned. Expensive horses and flashy equipment are not pre-requisites. BCCTRA offers you and your horse a superb opportunity to ride through and enjoy some of B.C.'s finest scenery.

Where and when are rides held?

BCCTRA offers at least 6 sanctioned rides throughout a ride season, starting in May and running until October. In addition to promoting the sport of CTR, BCCTRA encourages the use, protection and preservation of equestrian trails. Areas that consistently offer rides are Vancouver Island, the Okanagan and the Cariboo.

Levels of classification

Level I: 12-20 miles - maximum average speed of 5.0 mph.

Level II: 20-30 miles - maximum average speed of 6.5 mph.

Level III: 30-50 miles - maximum average speed of 7.0 mph.