Rivendell Challenge winds along the Great East Road!

After the addition of the Apprentice and Journeyman Riding skills, it was the end of competitive horse racing, said Kiralynn, owner of the Windy Acres Ranch, riding club for the Lonely Mountain Band.

When the Rivendell Challenge came around, things were done a bit different. While it was no intention to exclude anyone from participating, but to allow the race to be fair, it was designed to be mounted upon Warsteeds. All horses were welcomed to participate, albeit were slower, but the major competitors would be using Warsteeds.

For this race, everyone gathered at the Forsaken Inn at 2:30pm server/EST on the Landroval server. Those who wished to enjoy a bit of music and dance before hand did arrive earlier.

The race began at an imaginary start line between a tree and road sign in front  of the Forsaken Inn with Kikilaa in an early lead. The Riders then passed between two stones in the ruins atop Weathertop. Riding the long stretch of the Great East Road, they passed between two stone structures at the Tornstones, heading east at 33.85S/29.0W.  Crossing the Last Bridge, they headed east into the Trollshaws. After the long ride through the wilderness, they rode between two stone trolls in the Stone-Trolls Glade at 31.2S/18.2W. It was there that a few ended up lost which drug them farther back in the race. Crossing the Ford, they wound their way up the mountain towards Imladris. Just before crossing into the Valley of Rivendell, there was one causality, as Baldigar was mauled by a ruthless bear. The riders sprinted the last stretch for the imaginary line between the statue of Gil-galad and a cedar tree in front of the Last Homely House in Rivendell. As the tense moments lead on, the first 3 competitors crossed the finish line, followed by the hobbling  remains of Baldigar, and the other 12 or so racers.

Arriving in 3rd place, Craicwyth was awarded 5 gold. Coming in a close 2nd, Artemieth was awarded 10 gold. Leading the whole way, and coming in a hair split 1st place was Kiklaa being awarded 1,600 Turbine Points.

The race did conclude with a bit of music, dance, and beautiful fireworks!

If you wish to compete, participate, or even watch the next race, head over to the Windy Acre Range. Windy Acres Ranch sponsors horse races and shows on Landroval.

A special thanks is asked to be given out to all the volunteer judges for your patience and participation in the race.