About Lara L. Worden, MSc
Lara, a passionate distance rider, has been around horses throughout her adult life. She began her journey in Competitive Trail as a junior rider in the Upper Midwest. After college, she moved to the Foothills of North Carolina with her husband, Tim, whom she introduced to distance riding. Together, they have been competing in endurance and distance riding for over two decades.
Professionally, Lara serves as an Agriculture Extension Agent with NC State and Gaston County Cooperative Extension, bringing 20 years of experience working with horse owners. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Animal Science and a Master’s in Non-Ruminant Nutrition from Michigan State University. She is also a Certified Hay Sampler through the National Forage Testing Association. Her expertise and personal interests lie in equine nutrition, pasture management, and equine parasitology.
Photo by Becky Pearman Photography.
About Timothy Worden
Tim, a skilled farrier and independent distributor of Triple Crown horse feeds, has been an integral part of the endurance riding community for over two decades. Introduced to distance riding by his wife, Lara, Tim quickly developed a passion for the sport and has become a highly accomplished competitor. He and his trusted partner, Dan, have enjoyed remarkable success at the challenging 100-mile distance, earning a reputation for preparation, grit, and horsemanship.
When not on the trail, Tim is busy at his day job as a machinist, while also shoeing horses and helping owners on the side make informed feed and management decisions to support their horses’ health and performance. His combined expertise in hoof care, nutrition, and distance riding gives him a unique perspective on the demands of competitive equine sports.
Photo by Linda Toups.
