Challenges of the long-distance rider

Chinese equestrian competitors need to be willing to pack their tack and head overseas if they are to attain the highest skills. Yang Feiyue reports.

Wherever big equestrian competitions are held, Cheng Zhaoyi is willing to pack saddles, bridles and other tack and ride off into the distance, and he is prepared to pay through the nose for the pleasure.

For a trip to France last month, Cheng forked out 100,000 yuan ($15,700), and in return was credited with 13th place in a 120-kilometer endurance competition organized by the International Equestrian Federation. Those costs covered renting horses and one week of training before the competition proper began.