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 Local riders in the Scottish Borders get the chance to experience cross country riding from a very early age - should they so desire! Most of our local riding schools offer excellent hacking, much of this across beautiful and - depending on the standard of customer - challenging 'cross country.' We have regular Hunter Trials and Endurance Rides which offer contrasting 'cross-country' experiences. The annual historic Common Ridings offer another type of 'cross country' riding satisfying the dare devil instincts of yet another league of riding enthusiasts. Furthermore, the Scottish Borders continues to uphold its legendary hunting tradition within the law, where the riders' cross country riding ability is undoubtedly put to the test.
Cross Country courses however are quite a different matter. For over 20 years Thirlestane Castle Scottish Championship Horse Trials has put the Scottish Borders on the international eventing circuit. This major event attracts thousands of people who, with baited breath, gasp in disbelief as some of the world's top riders tackle 'fences' of apparently gargantuan proportions. Floors Castle International Horse Trials in May, now in its thirteenth year, is also flourishing as an increasingly popular major event. The jumps pose intriguing questions for those brave riders who choose to take up their challenge.
Partly in response to this and also to the growing need for famers to diversify, several excellent cross country courses have been built in the Borders. These cater for a variety of abilities. They are conveniently scattered throughout the region and can be booked by clubs, groups and individuals wishing to improve their skills.
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