What’s the easiest way to complete Horseman Challenge 8?

Horseman Challenge 8 in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires you to ride from Van Horn Trading Post to Blackwater in under 17 minutes without touching any water. This challenge can seem daunting, especially for new players, but with the right preparation and strategy, it becomes manageable. The key is to plan your route carefully, use a fast horse, and avoid any obstacles that could slow you down.\n\nFirst, ensure you have a fast and reliable horse. The Arabian or Missouri Fox Trotter are excellent choices due to their speed and stamina. Make sure your horse is fully bonded (level 4) to maximize its stamina and health. Equip your horse with the best saddle and stirrups available, such as the Panther Trail Saddle or the Rattlesnake Vaquero Saddle, to boost its speed and stamina regeneration.\n\nStart the challenge at Van Horn Trading Post, located in the northeast part of the map. Before you begin, stock up on Horse Stimulants or Potent Horse Stimulants to replenish your horse''s stamina during the ride. These can be purchased from general stores or crafted using herbs like Burdock Root and Ginseng. Additionally, consume a Potent Health Cure or similar item to ensure Arthur is in peak condition.\n\nYour route should avoid water at all costs. Head southwest from Van Horn, following the roads through the Heartlands. Stick to the main paths to avoid unnecessary detours. As you approach the Dakota River, cross it using the Bard''s Crossing railroad bridge, which is the safest and fastest way to avoid water. Continue south through the Great Plains, staying on the roads to maintain speed.\n\nOne common challenge is the presence of lawmen or hostile NPCs in Blackwater, especially if you have a bounty in the area. To avoid conflict, ride at full speed and stay on the outskirts of Blackwater. If you encounter enemies, use Dead Eye to take them out quickly without slowing down. Alternatively, you can use a stealth approach by dismounting and sneaking into Blackwater, but this is riskier and may take more time.\n\nTiming is critical. Use the in-game clock to monitor your progress. If you find yourself falling behind, consider restarting the challenge to avoid wasting time. Practice the route a few times to familiarize yourself with the terrain and potential obstacles. This will help you optimize your path and improve your chances of success.\n\nFinally, remember to save your game before starting the challenge. If you fail, you can reload your save and try again without losing progress. This is especially useful if you encounter unexpected issues, such as your horse getting injured or running into a random event that slows you down.\n\nIn summary, completing Horseman Challenge 8 requires careful planning, a fast horse, and a well-executed route. By following these steps and practicing the route, you can successfully ride from Van Horn to Blackwater in under 17 minutes and complete the challenge.