a carabiner on one end to make tying and untying easier. The carabiner must be a proper climbing carabiner so it can hold against the force of a horse pulling on it. Ride and tiers also usually ride with sheepskin covers over their saddles to prevent chafing, as competitors generally ride in running clothes (i.e., shorts and T-shirts). Almost all ride and tiers have water bottle holders on their saddles and some wear hydration systems on their own bodies in case they get separated from the horse for longer than intended. Notable Ride and Tie Competitors Gordy Ainsleigh is one of the most well-known ride and tiers, as he also inspired the creation of the Western States Endurance Run. Ken “Cowman” Shirk is another well-known ride and tier. Jim Howard has won many Ride and Tie World Championships, as well as two Western States 100 mile runs (1981 and 1983). Mary Tiscornia is the only person to have raced in every Ride and Tie World Championship and she has many titles to her name as well. Warren Hellman won the national championship (in his age category) five times. See also Endurance riding Ultramarathon Trail running Ride and Tie References Equestrian sports Long-distance running competitions Games and sports introduced in 1971