The Biltmore Equestrian Center, located on the grounds of George Vanderbilt’s historic Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, will host the sixteenth annual Biltmore Challenge Endurance Ride on May 2, 2009. Three distances will be offered: 50 miles, 75 miles (10 entries minimum), and 100 miles. All riders will be entered in the AERC Open category.  Riders will have the option to enter the FEI (open FEI and Young Rider FEI) rides (separate entry required) with additional qualifications and rules.  Riders will also have the option to enter the AHA local ride competitions (separate entry required) that have additional qualifications and rules.  If entered in the AHA event, sweepstakes points can be accumulated for sweepstakes-nominated Arabian and Half-Arabian entries. 

Team Competitions !  The Biltmore Challenge will also host team competitions, open to all riders within the 100-mile, 75-mile, and 50-mile AERC competitions.  At least two full teams are required to have team competition awards.  Form your own team of four riders, with time for the top three finishers on each team counting towards awards.  This is a good opportunity to practice team riding....   Check out how strategy and opportunities change in this environment! 

General Conditions:  Built in 1895, the Estate trails promise a challenging ride along the French Broad River and over rolling hills and low mountains.  Pads are often used but are not necessary. We recommend that all horses be shod. Breast collars/cruppers may be helpful.  Each loop will circle back to a central vetting area adjacent to the main camping area.  Weather is somewhat unpredictable in early May, but it is usually humid with temperatures in the upper 70s to low 80s.

Length of Stay Passes.  As part of the need for security on the Estate, and to provide a more official mode of access for attendees to the Estate grounds, names are provided for a list used by the front gate guards for initial entry (the "Gate List").  Subsequent re-entry will be via wristbands available at the ride site.  Entry for one named crew member is covered as part of the ride entry fees.   On the Estate, including at the ride site, colored wristbands will be required to be worn as visible proof of permission.
Additional entry permits may be purchased for each additional named crew members for $25 each. 
Note:  children 16 and under are free, but must still have their names on the "Gate List" and wear the wristbands.