I have often observed a NATRC CTR rider explaining the sport and launching into a technical recitation of the rules and judging. The one thing that I seldom hear described is the sheer fun of CTR.

Now I have been cautioned that not everyone believes it is fun to try to lunge an excited horse for the judges in temperatures that feel near freezing with high gusty winds as a thunder storm blows in. I have even heard that not everyone considers it fun to ride out at daybreak, in rain, on a horse that left his brain at home. However, no matter what challenges the day’s riding brought, you will always find big smiles when you arrive back in camp. Everyone has a blast comparing the day’s notes and sharing stories. This is true regardless of the weather and horse conditions.

Often the rides are in nice weather, your horse did not leave his brain at home, and you can relax and enjoy the new scenery and trails.

Rides are held from coast to coast and are a great way to see the country from the back of your horse. Many rides are held on public or private land not usually open to riders. Equal in enjoyment of the scenery is the great good will of the other riders. Smiles and outgoing friendliness is the norm on the trail.  You meet new and old friends at  every ride. This is a rare sport where experienced competitors are always willing to help new competitors explaining things that could result in points off and what to expect.

Camp starts forming on Friday and by Saturday is a small city of horse minded people. A place where it is perfectly normal to talk horse 24 hours a day. It is also great to spend a weekend camping with you equine buddy. It is amazing what you can learn. Such as how loud he can snore!

Spending a weekend living close to your horse can bring you together and improve communication. It is also fun to realize you have learned something new. Many riders who come to this sport have years of horse care and riding experience. However, many find they and their horse still learn new skills. It is always fun to improve! If you've never done a NATRC CTR before, don't be intimidated!  If you tell ride management it's your first NATRC ride  you'll be flabbergasted at how helpful everyone will be! All you need to do is ask and you'll get all the help and guidance you can possibly stand--and then some.

Competitive trail riding is a great family activity. Children aged 10 or over on the day of the ride can compete. Parents who are competing may ride with their competing children.

Family or friends who don't want to compete may volunteer to assist ride management. Volunteers are highly prized and usually pampered.  On-the-job training provided, no special knowledge required. Just a smiling face and a trusting outlook!

Many competitors find that the sport is not only fun for the rider, but for the horse as well.  They thoroughly enjoy riding new trails, meeting new buddies, looking forward to what is around the next bend, enjoying the new scenery, and new tasty trail side snacks.  People who show or normally ride in a very structured venue may find that a NATRC CTR provides a good mental break for their horse.