Tips for CTR newbie?

[Jeannette_formerly_ponygyrl]

Ok, not a total newbie -as a kid I rode in several 20 mile judged pleasure rides, and 1 35mile CTR, but it has been decades.
. A friend and I are aiming two tbs at the Oct Virginia Trail Riders 30 mile CTR. 2 days, 20 the first, 10 the second. Hilly ride - up and down Warm Spring Mountain at least once, I gather.

. Any tips either for prep or thngs to bring or know during the ride? I’ve ordered Nancy Loving’s book which should be in any day now, but appreciate any tips.
Both horses have been on numerous 8-10 mile hunter paces. One can be a little up his first ride at a new place, but a good trot /canter helps settle him. Other is btdt dude w aging hocks.

. Both horses raced for several years, jave been off track for bunch of years, but they have experience being fit. Older guy also evented thru Prelim.

[tabula_rashah]

What organization is putting on the ride? They all run them a little different so it would help if we knew which one it was

[Jeannette_formerly_ponygyrl]

As far as I can see its simply a Virginia Trail Riders ride, not sanctioned by either (any?) of the governing bodies. No ice , linaments, medications. Hose temp water. Strict barn lockdown overnight.
. 30 mile Ride judged 60% manners, 40% fitness.
. We are definitely going for fun not glory. But not embarrassing ourselves, scandalizing the regulars, or getting halfway through day 1 and thinking “darn, I wish I had brought x!” is my goal. And of course, aiming to have sound happy horses, ready for an imaginary third day rather than wishing for a sag wagon.
Optimum time 20 mile day is 3 1/2 -4 1/2 hours. Day 2 must be 1 1/2 - 2 1/2 hours.

. Do folks like sheepskin seatsavers?

. What do you use as your guage that your horse is ready for x challenge? I’m familiar with long slow distance work and interval training for eventers. Definitely understand the concept of recovery rates, but would love some #s or guidelines to measure.