RIDER PROFILES
Terry Madden
Terry Madden has made incredible amount of progress since he first started riding only 7 years ago. Now one of the UK’s up and coming Endurance Riders, Terry won Top Male Rider & Horse Combination in 2003 on Estansa Abu Estasan, who he lists as his best friend, and “Abu” won Best Arab competing throughout Cheshire.
Always having loved animals, he got into riding when he met his current partner who rides and introduced him to the sport. He freely admits that words cannot describe the relationship he has with his horses when out on the open country in the elements, ‘it’s the best thing ever’! Terry can’t imagine doing anything else, but is adamant it would be horse-related, maybe something like Le Trec as he’s won a few Handy Pony competitions with Abu! Abu is his best friend but, if he could have any other horse in any discipline, Terry would plump for Red Rum, who was similar to Abu, being small with amazing courage and stamina, always giving his heart and soul when racing.
Terry puts his success down to dedication, a thorough training programme and the support of a good crew teamed with correct feeding. “Without a good, experienced team it would be impossible to do well at this level,” says Terry. “All my crew know my horses inside and out, which can make the difference between finishing or being eliminated! “I fit my training regime in around my job on a warmblood stud so I am up early and often at the yard until gone 8pm. It’s worth all the hours though as I love the time I spend with my horses and would like a chance at team selection in the future.” Next year Terry will also be attempting his first 100 miles with Abu – barefoot and whilst personal achievements are his ultimate aim, regaining the top horse/rider combination in 2006 would be very welcome!
To succeed in endurance requires commitment as it’s not pleasant in bad weather. However, aspiring riders can benefit from learning to really know their horse; how they cope in certain situations; their physiology; what causes them stress or how quickly they recover after exercise and get cold. A diary during training is an excellent plan as once you’ve got it right, you can enjoy every minute.
If you would like to speak to Terry about getting started in Endurance Riding he is always happy to give advice and training. He also offers specific information on competing barefoot (as he competes all his horses barefoot and trims them himself!) and the price depends on individual need and after discussion with the client. He can be contacted by e-mailing: terrymadden54@yahoo.co.uk
Hates:
Motorists who do not give way to riders – as well as some riders who do not adhere to the Highway Code which reflects badly on all riders.
VITAL STATISTICS
AGE
51
BASED
Flintshire, North Wales
NUMBER OF HORSES
3
FAVOURITE BAILEYS PRODUCTS
No.6 All-Round Endurance Mix
Outshine
Aqua-Aide
Alfalfa Blend
Outshine
Aqua-Aide
Alfalfa Blend
RESULTS THIS SEASON
| 100km Endurance Ride at Lindum - 2nd |
| 80km Endurance Ride at Cirencester - 5th |
| 80km Endurance Ride at Northern Championships - 7th |
TOP TIPS!
- Detailed and robust training programme
- Monitor performance through training and competition, recording heart rate, temperature, appetite, weight and muscle tone
- Enjoy each competition and reflect on your performance as every competition has a learning opportunity