What is the easiest way to 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 can be tricky due to the game''s vast map and the need to avoid rivers, lakes, and other water bodies. However, with the right strategy and preparation, it can be completed efficiently.\n\nFirst, ensure you have a fast and durable horse. The Arabian or Missouri Fox Trotter are excellent choices due to their speed and stamina. Use Horse Stimulants or other stamina-replenishing items to keep your horse running at full speed. Additionally, equip your horse with the best saddle and stirrups to maximize stamina regeneration and reduce drain.\n\nStart 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. Head southwest toward Blackwater, sticking to the main roads and avoiding shortcuts that might lead you near water. The key is to follow a route that minimizes detours while keeping you on dry land.\n\nA recommended path is to ride south from Van Horn, passing through Rhodes and then heading west toward Blackwater. Avoid areas like the Kamassa River and Flat Iron Lake, as these are large water bodies that can easily disqualify you. Use the in-game map to plan your route and mark waypoints to stay on track.\n\nDuring the ride, maintain a steady pace and avoid unnecessary stops. Use the cinematic camera mode to reduce fatigue and keep your horse moving forward. If you encounter enemies or wildlife, do not engage unless absolutely necessary, as this can waste valuable time. Focus solely on reaching Blackwater within the time limit.\n\nOne common challenge is navigating the area around Blackwater, as it is heavily patrolled by lawmen. To avoid confrontation, approach Blackwater from the north or east, sticking to the outskirts of the town. Once you reach the town limits, the challenge will complete, and you can dismount safely.\n\nIf you fail the challenge, reload your saved game and try again. Practice the route a few times to familiarize yourself with the terrain and potential obstacles. With persistence and careful planning, you can complete Horseman Challenge 9 and move closer to unlocking all achievements in Red Dead Redemption 2.\n\nFinally, remember to keep your horse''s health and stamina in check. Use tonics and food to restore stamina during the ride, and avoid pushing your horse too hard, as it may collapse from exhaustion. By following these steps and staying focused, you can successfully complete this challenging task.