There are only a handful of long riders in every generation, and even fewer who succeed, making Irish-born Hugh MacDermott’s epic two-year journey an extreme rarity. His story is captured in this stunning and moving documentary from debut feature filmmaker, Lucy D’Cruz.

At the age of nineteen, Hugh embarks on a formidable journey across Argentina with only his loyal horse, Pancho, for company. Grappling with his sexuality and mourning his brother’s loss, Hugh draws strength from mysterious coincidences linked to a cherished childhood book, “Tschiffely’s Ride.”

As he travels, Hugh faces severe mental and physical hardships—limited funds, minimal Spanish, and prolonged solitude—testing his resilience and determination. His trek symbolises a universal quest for self-discovery, growth, and healing, with the route’s challenges serving as metaphors for life’s trials. Along the way, Hugh meets influential characters who become surrogate father figures and witnesses the profound bond between man and horse.

Guided by the founder of the Long Riders’ Guild, the narrative highlights the rare, almost spiritual nature of long-distance equestrian travel, underscoring Hugh’s extraordinary two-year odyssey as a remarkable achievement.