In 1976, as the United States marked its Bicentennial, the Great American Horse Race captured international attention. Spanning approximately 3,300 miles from Frankfort, New York, to Sacramento, California, the race challenged the endurance, adaptability, and partnership of horses and riders across an extraordinary cross-country route. Among the international competitors was a small but determined group of Icelandic horse riders whose participation would leave a lasting legacy within the Icelandic horse community.

The ride began in Frankfort, New York, and crossed Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Nebraska, Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Idaho, and Nevada before finishing in Sacramento, California. Along the way, the route followed historic corridors of westward expansion, including portions of the Lewis and Clark Trail, the Pony Express Trail, the Oregon Trail, the California Trail, the Cherry Valley Trail, the Mormon Trail, the Donner Trail, and the Diamondfield Jack Trail.

At the time, Icelandic horses were often underestimated outside their native country. Smaller in stature than many traditional endurance breeds, they were nevertheless known for exceptional stamina, sure-footedness, and resilience, as well as their unique gaits, including the tölt.

The Icelandic riders—Ullu and Claus Becker, Lothar Weiland, Johannes Hoyos, Max Indermaur, and Walter Feldmann—entered the race not simply to compete, but to demonstrate the true capabilities and versatility of the Icelandic horse on an international stage.
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The demands of the race were immense. Riders and horses faced extreme weather variations, long daily distances, and constantly changing terrain. Rather than relying on speed, the Icelandic riders emphasized thoughtful horse management and consistency.

These virtual checkpoints mirror the original cross-country journey and allow modern riders to track progress state by state, reflecting on the challenges faced by the original competitors.

Nearly fifty years later, this historic journey serves as the inspiration for the 2026 Sea to Shining Sea Virtual Race. As riders reach each state checkpoint, we will share engaging stories and historical insights about the Icelandic riders and their horses from this momentous journey.

Follow the S2SS Facebook page as participants accumulate miles along the route and more importantly join us on this fun ride!