How do you efficiently complete the 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 efficiently complete it, you need a fast horse, a clear route, and a solid 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 are excellent choices. Equip your horse with the best saddle and stirrups to maximize stamina regeneration and speed. Use Horse Stimulants or Potent Horse Stimulants to keep your horse''s stamina high during the ride. These items can be purchased from stables or crafted using herbs like Wild Carrot and Ginseng.\n\nStart the challenge at Van Horn Trading Post, located in the northeast part of the map. Before you begin, make sure your horse''s stamina core is full. You can feed it Hay or other stamina-boosting items. Once ready, set a waypoint to Blackwater in the southwest. The key is to avoid water entirely, as even a small puddle will reset the challenge. This means you must carefully plan your route to avoid rivers, lakes, and streams.\n\nA recommended route is to head southwest from Van Horn, passing through the Heartlands and into the Great Plains. Avoid the Kamassa River and Flat Iron Lake by sticking to the main roads and open plains. Use the railway tracks as a guide, as they provide a relatively straight path with minimal water crossings. Be cautious of obstacles like rocks, trees, and NPCs, as collisions can slow you down or cause your horse to stumble.\n\nDuring the ride, maintain a steady pace by alternating between galloping and trotting to conserve stamina. Use the cinematic camera mode to reduce distractions and focus on the path ahead. If your horse''s stamina starts to deplete, use a Horse Stimulant immediately. Keep an eye on the mini-map to ensure you''re staying on course and avoiding water.\n\nOne common challenge is navigating the area around Blackwater, as it is heavily guarded by lawmen if you have a bounty. To avoid confrontation, approach Blackwater from the north or east, sticking to the outskirts of the town. Once you reach the outskirts of Blackwater, the challenge will complete, and you can dismount safely.\n\nPractical tips include saving your game before starting the challenge, so you can reload if something goes wrong. Additionally, practice the route a few times to familiarize yourself with the terrain and potential obstacles. If you fail, don''t get discouraged—adjust your route or strategy and try again. With patience and preparation, you can efficiently complete Horseman Challenge 9 and move on to the next challenge.