As I blogged last year, one of the most interesting aspects of the Vermont 100, at least as a spectator, is the horses. The Vermont 100 is one of the few ultra running races (possibly the only) that still shares a course with a long distance horse race. It is the only 100 that continues the tradition of how the first 100 mile running race was started.
The history of the Western States 100 has its root in horseback racing. A rider named Gordie Ansleigh decided that after two years of his mare coming up lame for the Western States 100 mile trail ride, he would run the event on foot instead. He finished the event in the 24 hour cut off, and ultrarunning was born. Gordie still occasionally runs the race. He DNF this year’s Western States 100.
The horses at Vermont are part of the Vermont Endurance ride. An event with a 100 mile, 75 mile and 50 mile ride category. The amount of horse property owners who participate by allowing the course through their property indicates to be that this relationship helps the running race go on.
There were many more horses in the 100 mile category last year. I guess it was considered the national championship for the distance. But we were happy to see the horses we did see. Although I didn’t get to photograph as many horses this year.
An it is quite enjoyable to watch the horse share a course with the runners. There’s a bit of a unique interaction between runners and riders. There has to be communication to reassure everyone involved, especially the horses.
The horses are simply stunning as well. Gorgeous, well cared for and well loved Arabians and Arabian mixes. I asked a rider why they didn’t use other endurance breeds once, like akhal-tekes, and I was told that Arabian’s personality just matched this kind of race perfectly.
There are some differences from the running race. While the horse has to run the whole distance, riders can be switched. Aid stations for the horses have some mandatory vet checks and holding periods. And a couple places have the horses going a slightly different course, especially if the hill is especially eroded.
And the riders can stop for Margaritas if they feel like it.
The pleasure for the spectators is not only the beauty of the horses. I can’t express how amazing it is to see the riders and their wonderful smiles. Despite the heat and their full riders outfits, the riders seemed so happy to be enjoying their animals.
I have several pictures of horses and rider in my flickr set. Feel free to use them with credit. If you want to print them and can’t get the full size from flickr let me know which one you need.
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