It traverses virgin forests - majestic scenic wilderness that is virtually the same today as when the Washoe Indians passed through hundreds of years ago. The ride ends at the Gold Country Fairgrounds in Auburn 24 hours later. Nine veterinary checks are available along the often tortuous, rocky way. RIders and their mounts who have not passed checkpoints by specific times are disqualified. Veterinarian Marcia Smith said the low percentage adds to the Tevis' mystique.
Some people do it before they're really prepared.
An internal medicine specialist for dogs and cats at a small-animal clinic in Loomis, Smith has been competing in endurance rides for 10 years. She won the 1995 North American Championship and competed in the World Championships in 1996 and the Pan American event in 1997. She has entered the Tevis four times. The first time, she withdrew because her horse became lame. She won the Tevis Cup in 1992 and in 1997.