The record for the most miles logged in competitive trail riding by a single horse was set in October, 2008, by a 37-year-old half-Arabian gelding named Elmer Bandit and his owner Mary Anna Wood.
Elmer forged a remarkable career in competitive trail-riding, finishing his last competitive ride near Lucas, Iowa, carrying his career tally to 20,780 miles. It is a national competitive trail-riding record.
1. The circumference of the earth measures about 24,901 miles at the equator. How many more miles would Elmer and Mary Anna have to ride to equal the distance of the earth’s circumference?
The grey part-Arab gelding was already an accomplished competitive trail-riding horse in the US when, in 1980, he was among the first five horses inducted into the sport’s Hall of Fame.
2. Elmer’s career began in 1976 and spanned 34 years. In what year did Elmer Bandit retire?
His longevity has been credited to great genes, excellent conformation and the life-long care of Mary Anna.
The 15.1-hand horse could trot for long periods at around 12mph (19.3kmh) – a pace that would see many horses break into a canter.
3. Calculate Elmer’s height in inches.
4. If Elmer trotted for 2 hours, how many kilometres would he travel?
The North American Trail Ride Conference is the group that sanctioned and tracked Elmer Bandit’s lifetime record.
Want to read more about Elmer and see more pictures?
1. The circumference of the earth measures about 24,901 miles. How many more miles would Elmer and Mary Anna have to ride to equal the distance of the earth’s circumference?
Answer: 24,901 – 20,780 = 4121. They would have to ride 4,121 more miles.
2. Elmer’s career began in 1976 and spanned 34 years. In what year did Elmer Bandit retire?
Answer: 1976 + 34 = 2010. Elmer retired in 2010.
3. Calculate Elmer’s height in inches.
Answer: (1 hand = 4 inches; 15.1 hands is 15 hands 1 inch) 15 x 4 = 60 inches + 1 inch = 61 inches. Elmer was 61 inches high.
4. If Elmer trotted for 2 hours, how far many kilometres would he go?
Answer: 2 x 19.3 km = 38.6 km
