Team Horses Electra BP Murdoch , Brammall Jazzmin , Harriet , Bremervale Justice and Magnum were ridden by Peter and Penny Toft , Anne Jones , Wencka Hansen, and Sue Crockett.

A large group of enthusiastic helpers , grooms and strappers , most of whom are members of the Dubai crew gathered under the watchful eye of Chef for the day , Robin van der Wegen.

We completed a ride 33k up the beach and return , with a simulated vetgate at the turn point and at the end of the beach before heading home.

The crew enthusiastically practiced passing water to the riders, and the horses enjoyed a constant stream of cool (and salty ) water.

Each vet gate saw HR / CRI, and trot out , and every horse passed with flying colours.

Setting out late in the day just after the turn of the tide , we had a lot of beach traffic to contend with , and there were some puzzled looks at the line up of crew and water bottles waiting for the approaching neddies. Most drivers were courteous, although the parade of hazard flashers from the trailing crew cars must have been quite a sight as we finished in the dark.

This was a confidence building day. Everyone was enthusiastic, committed, and seemed to be having a great time.

The biggest pile of Pizzas I have ever seen ( 20) appeared in the camp some hours later , as we wound down a very successful trial run for the big challenge ahead.

Story and photos courtesy of Mal Caldwell