Lutterworth equestrian claims national glory in debuting endurance season
Lutterworth rider Beth Kerslake has achieved national sporting success, claiming the prestigious title of Reserve Novice Foundation Champion at the Endurance GB National Championships.
Riding Semper Invicta, her 15-year-old Thoroughbred affectionately known as Vic, the South Leicestershire-based equestrian secured second place in the competitive 20km class held at Rushford Hall on Saturday, 15th August.
Navigating technical tracks in the stunning surroundings of Thetford Forest, Beth and Vic delivered an outstanding performance with an average speed of 12.6 km/h.
Unlike sprint or jump racing, endurance riding is a rigorous test of pacing, stamina, and equine welfare. Final placings are calculated through a performance formula combining speed and the horse's physiological recovery.
Vic presented to the veterinary panel with a remarkably low heart rate of just 40 beats per minute, highlighting his exceptional fitness and securing the national reserve title.
It’s a brilliant comeback story, as the 16.2hh gelding retired from jump racing in 2017 after racing at point-to-point, hurdles, and fences - including a stint in training with Paul Nicholls.
Purchased eight years ago by Beth as a hunter on her family’s stock farm, the versatile former racehorse - registered with the Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) charity - has since excelled in showjumping, dressage, and arena eventing.
Transitioning to endurance in 2026, Vic has logged over 150km this year across seven completed rides.
"Finishing as the Reserve National Champion at Thetford is an absolute dream come true," Beth said.
"When Vic and I tried our first pleasure ride last year, we fell in love with the sport instantly.
“In endurance, the attention you pay to recovery brings you closer to your horse than ever before. Vic was an absolute superstar."
Beth appreciates the guidance from Leicestershire & Rutland Group of Endurance GB, as well as the friends who helped desensitise Vic to veterinary heart rate checks ahead of the event.
This success highlights the core mission of Endurance GB: promoting horse welfare, outdoor adventure, and supportive community networks from grassroots pleasure rides up to elite national championships.
Beth and Vic’s next major challenge is at the iconic British Horse Feeds' Red Dragon Festival of Endurance in September, where they will tackle the steep climbs and descents of the Welsh mountains.
Preparation for that is already well underway, with more success being eyed.