Tactics to Get Ribbon Fast, Win Horse Race: KC Deliverance

Updated January 2025

The "Sport of Kings" side quest in Kingdom Come: Deliverance tasks you with winning a horse race to convince Mr. Diwisch of the quality of Neuhof horses. While the original guide provides a decent overview, here's an updated strategy with more specific tactics for a faster victory:

Choosing Your Horse:

While the quest focuses on using Zora's dapple gray, you can technically participate with any horse. However, for the purpose of completing the quest and helping Zora, using her horse is recommended. The horse's stats (speed, stamina, courage) do have an impact, so a well-trained horse will have an advantage.

Starting the Race:

The time of day you initiate the initial conversation with Mr. Diwisch isn't crucial. The key steps are:

  1. Speak with Mr. Diwisch at Talmberg castle about his reluctance to buy Neuhof horses.
  2. Talk to the Talmberg stable master (dressed in yellow) to officially set up the race and learn the rules. He'll explain the waypoint system.
  3. Meet at the East Gate of Talmberg around midday with your chosen horse.

Optimized Route and Tactics:

The core strategy remains the same: hit all three waypoints (marked by flags and ribbons) in any order and return to the starting line. However, optimizing the route and utilizing specific tactics can significantly improve your time:

  • Waypoint 1: Dead Tree (Between Church and Tavern): This is generally the easiest to reach first. Approach it from the higher ground for a smoother ribbon grab. You don't need to dismount.
  • Waypoint 2: Mill at Merhojed (Southeast of Talmberg): This is often the most time-consuming leg. Instead of following the main road, consider taking a more direct cross-country route. Be mindful of terrain and obstacles that could slow you down.
  • Waypoint 3: Quarry of Talmberg: The creek crossing can be tricky. Look for the shallowest point to avoid slowing down or dismounting. Often, staying slightly to the side of the direct path offers a better crossing.

Get Ribbon Fast, Win Talmberger Horse Race, KC Deliverance
Key Tactics for Winning:

  • Cut Corners: Unlike the other riders, you're not restricted to the main paths. Utilize shortcuts across fields and through the woods whenever possible. This is the biggest advantage you have.
  • Manage Stamina: Pay close attention to your horse's stamina bar (green). When it drops below a quarter, your horse will automatically slow to a trot to recover. Anticipate this and briefly ease up on the gallop before the bar gets too low to maximize speed and minimize forced trot periods. Short bursts of gallop followed by brief periods of trotting are more effective than constant galloping.
  • Map Knowledge: Familiarize yourself with the map and the general location of the waypoints before the race. This will allow you to plan your shortcuts more effectively. Even a quick scout on horseback before the race can be beneficial.
  • Early Lead vs. Late Surge: While taking an early lead can be advantageous, it's more important to maintain consistent speed and manage stamina. A late surge towards the finish line can be very effective, especially if you've utilized shortcuts effectively.
  • Avoid Collisions: Colliding with other riders or obstacles will slow you down significantly. Try to maintain a clear path and anticipate the movements of other racers.

Post-Race:

After winning, speak to Mr. Diwisch to complete that part of the quest and unlock the associated trophy. Then, return to Zora to deliver the good news. While she promises a saddle as a reward, a known bug sometimes prevents it from appearing in your inventory. You can usually purchase the same saddle from Zora or other stable masters if this happens.

By utilizing these updated tactics, focusing on efficient route planning, and managing your horse's stamina, you'll significantly increase your chances of winning the Talmberg horse race and completing the "Sport of Kings" quest quickly and efficiently.

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