We love seeing riders enjoy the great outdoors on their horses, especially when they’re equipped with an Australian saddle. No matter the discipline, comfort for both rider and horse is essential for a successful day in the saddle.
One of the most demanding disciplines is endurance riding. Serious competitors can face rides of 50 – 100 miles, a test that requires peak physical and mental conditioning for both horse and rider. Preparing for such grueling distances makes the saddle a critical piece of equipment.
hy Australian Saddles Make a Difference
- Rider comfort: Narrow twist, free‑leg movement off the stirrup bar, and a suspended webbed seat keep the rider relaxed on long rides.
- Horse support: A precise fit combined with a quality felt saddle pad protects the horse’s muscles and encourages proper cooling.
- Endurance performance: The lightweight, ergonomic design reduces fatigue for both horse and rider during ultra‑long rides.
That’s where Australian saddles truly shine. Their design keeps the rider comfortable over long hours, while a high‑quality felt saddle pad paired with a properly fitted saddle supports the horse’s muscles and promotes effective cooling throughout the ride.
Sponsorship: This past fall we were thrilled to sponsor Mackenzie with a brand‑new Aussie Endurance saddle and an Endurance Felt pad.
Recent results (2023, BC): First, second, and third place finishes across multiple endurance events.
Athlete profile:
ACE‑certified personal trainer.
Bikini‑competition champion.
Future goals:
Compete at the EC Western Canadian Championships in Alberta next year.
Tackle the iconic Tevis Cup endurance ride.
I first met Mackenzie when she was searching for a better‑fitting saddle pad for her Arabian gelding, Maverick. Since then, she’s won repeatedly in British Columbia, proving both horse and rider are formidable athletes. I’ve ridden alongside them, and there was a moment when Maverick surged ahead, leaving us chasing dust while my own horse, Willow, tried her best to catch up. It was a humbling and exhilarating experience.
Beyond endurance, Mackenzie is no stranger to competition. With her background as a certified trainer and champion athlete, we have every confidence that she and Maverick will reach those milestones, wherever the trail leads. We’re proud to support them with equipment that keeps them riding comfortably and confidently.