Inside Red Dragon: An Interview with Joint Organiser John Hudson

Every autumn, hundreds of horses, riders and their supporters descend upon the iconic Royal Welsh Showground for the British Horse Feeds Red Dragon Festival of Endurance. It’s one of the biggest weekends on the UK endurance calendar, combining grassroots and pleasure riders with National Championship contenders and international-level competitors. But behind the scenes, pulling together this major feat of logistics and community, are two passionate organisers: John and Jane Hudson.

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I caught up with John to find out more about what makes Red Dragon so special—and why, after all these years, he and Jane still can’t wait to do it all again…

“Red Dragon is part of our story…”

When asked what inspired him to take on the role of organiser, John’s answer is as heartfelt as it is humble.

“There were many reasons,” he begins. “Our dear friend Pat Conn, who originally ran the event, asked us to take it on when she retired. She’s no longer with us, so we continue to organise Red Dragon in her memory.”

That sense of legacy is woven through everything the Hudsons do. Having helped out at the ride for years—and with John himself having completed the challenging 2-day 160km CER on his horse Tigre—it was only natural that they stepped up to ensure the event would continue.

“We’ve made so many friends through Red Dragon,” he adds. “Especially the landowners, who make the route possible. It’s a joy to work with them year after year.”

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Why keep coming back?

Organising a ride of this scale is no small feat. From route marking to land negotiations, managing volunteers to catering logistics—it’s not a job for the faint-hearted. So why keep doing it?

“It’s the love of it,” says John simply. “It’s for the riders. And it’s for the sport.”

That passion for endurance shines through in everything they do—from route development to welcoming new riders with open arms.

A ride that evolves

Red Dragon might be steeped in tradition, but it’s certainly not stuck in the past. John and Jane have made plenty of updates over the years, including:

• Significant route changes, like incorporating the spectacular Begwyn Hills.

• Better use of venue facilities, turning it into a full weekend experience.

• Introduction of shorter classes to attract newer members of Endurance GB.

• Improved route marking and signage, thanks to the efforts of the TRF (Trail Riders Fellowship) team.

• Long-standing partnerships with British Horse Feeds and The Golden Paste Company, now in their 15th year.

“We’re really proud of how the event caters to everyone now,” John adds. “It’s a social weekend away as much as it is a competition.”

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What makes Red Dragon so special?

“It’s got the wow factor,” John says. “The views, the hills, the challenge, the people—it’s a bucket-list ride for a reason.”

Riders of all levels will tell you the same: Red Dragon has an atmosphere like no other. The site buzzes with anticipation and camaraderie. And whether you’re doing a 20km pleasure ride or a 160km championship class, you’re part of the same celebration of the sport.

Let’s talk terrain

Describing the route as ‘fast going with wonderful views’ is only the beginning.

“We’ve made huge improvements,” John explains. “We now use much more private land and land owned by national organisations, which reduces roadwork and improves the overall

going.”

For 2025, the on-course vet gate for the longer distances at Painscastle is set to return—bringing with it more space and better facilities for riders and crews alike.

So what’s new for 2025?

Don’t panic—most of the ride remains reassuringly familiar. But there are a few exciting updates, including:

• A new 66km CER class.

• A refreshed range of trade stands.

• And of course, hosting Endurance GB’s National Championships.

What does that mean for the ride?

“It raises the bar, of course,” says John. “We’ll need more volunteers, more professional staff—especially vets—and better catering capacity. But our aim is simple: to ensure every rider feels welcome, not just those in the Championship classes.”

Balancing elite athletes and happy hackers

With everything from novice 26km rides to top-level CERs, Red Dragon has to work for everyone. So how do they manage it?

“It’s a good question,” John laughs. “We try to ensure that the schedule and facilities serve both ends of the spectrum. We really want first-timers to feel as at home here as the internationals do.”

What riders need to know

Asked what he wished every rider knew before turning up at Red Dragon, John grins: “Can I give four things?”

1. Red Dragon is for everyone—not just the elite. “That’s a myth we’re always trying to bust.”

2. The organisers are here to help. “If you’ve got a question or concern, just ask.”

3. There are free Zoom webinars to help you prepare. (“Why not spend the weekend with a Red Dragon?” is the perfect intro.) Join on free webinars on the 13^th August or the 20^th August.

4. The Hill isn’t as bad as you think. “Honestly,” John laughs, “we shouldn’t even mention it—but there’s a great video of riders tackling it on the website if you're curious.” Watch it here. 

Why YOU should come to Red Dragon this year

If you’ve never been before, John has one last nudge for you.

“You’ll experience some of the best riding in the UK. You can ride over one, two or even three days. The facilities are great—showers, real loos, evening meals, a bar, plenty of space. There’s shopping, socialising and just a really welcoming atmosphere.”

In short?

“It’s a real endurance ride,” he says with a smile. “And everyone’s invited.”

📅 The British Horse Feeds Red Dragon Festival of Endurance returns 26–28 September 2025

📍 Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells, Powys

✨ Classes from pleasure rides to CERs – including the 2025 National Championships🎥 Check out rider resources and route videos here.

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