What’s the quickest way to complete Horseman Challenge 9?

Horseman Challenge 9 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 is one of the most demanding in the game due to the distance and the strict time limit. To complete it efficiently, you need a fast horse, a clear route, and an understanding of the game’s mechanics.\n\nFirst, ensure you have a horse with high stamina and speed. The Arabian, Missouri Fox Trotter, or Turkoman breeds are excellent choices. Equip your horse with the best saddle and stirrups available, such as the Panther Trail Saddle or the Hooded Stirrups, to maximize stamina regeneration and speed. Additionally, stock up on Horse Stimulants or Potent Horse Stimulants to replenish stamina during the ride.\n\nStart the challenge at Van Horn Trading Post, located in the northeast part of the map. Before beginning, save your game to avoid losing progress if something goes wrong. Once ready, mount your horse and head southwest toward Blackwater. The key is to avoid water entirely, as even shallow streams or puddles will reset the challenge. Stick to dry land and use bridges whenever possible.\n\nThe fastest route involves traveling through the Heartlands, past Valentine, and then cutting through the Great Plains. Avoid the swamps near Saint Denis and the rivers near Rhodes, as these areas are prone to water hazards. Use the train tracks near Flatneck Station as a guide to stay on course. Once you reach the Great Plains, ride directly toward Blackwater, keeping an eye out for any obstacles or enemies.\n\nGame mechanics play a significant role in this challenge. Your horse’s stamina is crucial, so use the calm button (L3 on PlayStation or LS on Xbox) to soothe your horse and restore stamina periodically. Additionally, avoid collisions with trees, rocks, or other obstacles, as these can slow you down or injure your horse. If you encounter hostile NPCs or wildlife, prioritize speed over combat to save time.\n\nCommon challenges include navigating the dense forests near Valentine and avoiding the Pinkerton patrols in the Great Plains. To mitigate these issues, plan your route carefully and use the mini-map to stay on track. If you’re spotted by Pinkertons, don’t engage—ride past them at full speed. For the forested areas, stick to open paths and avoid tight spaces where your horse might get stuck.\n\nPractical tips for success include practicing the route beforehand to familiarize yourself with the terrain and potential hazards. Use Eagle Eye to spot water hazards or obstacles in advance. If you fail the challenge, reload your saved game to avoid losing time. Finally, consider completing this challenge during the day for better visibility and fewer hostile encounters.\n\nBy following these steps and understanding the game’s mechanics, you can complete Horseman Challenge 9 efficiently. With the right preparation and execution, you’ll ride from Van Horn to Blackwater in under 17 minutes and earn the satisfaction of conquering one of Red Dead Redemption 2’s toughest challenges.