Equilife issue 10 'living the lifestyle' 2017

Equilife Living the Lifestyle

Issue 10

Portrait ~ Enos Mafokate â&#x20AC;¢ Erreplus Presidents Cup 2017 DISTRIBUTION FREE NATIONWIDE

Bhangazi Horse Safaris

From the Publisher......

The Equilife Team

Marketing and Advertising Jacqueline Wood jacqui@equilife.co.za

Design and Production Michele Wood design@equilife.co.za

Content Editor

Colleen Mulrooney

Photography

Jacqui S Photography jacqui@equilife.co.za

A year ago we launched Equilife Magazne ‘Living the Lifestyle’

Contributors Ashleigh Hughes Turf Diaries Enos Mafokte Catherine Hartley Beyond Racing Freya Adamzyk Gaited Traveller Hannah Botha Stable Views Jean Hackland Polocrosse Leandri Joubert Endurance Lauren Smith and Koekie de Villiers Breeders Sikhangele Mbambo A Grooms Insight

Wquilife has come a long way, from that first Issue, adding regular new features, such as Portrait, The Sketch Pad, the Wine Review and Spotlight. We look forward to continue on this path in 2017, where we will showcase one major article per issue, begining with our Portrait on Enos Mafokate - South Africa’s Equestrian Pioneer. Any suggestions are most welcome, enjoy our anniversay issue.

The Equilife Team

Photography Isabella Stepski

All Editorial material is strictly copyrighted and may not be

reproduced without the publishers permission. Equilife reserves the right to reject any advertising or editorial material which may not suit the standard of the publication without reason given. Opinions expressed in advertisements and articles do not necessarily reflect those of the Editor or Publisher. Equilife (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for any material submitted for Publication.

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Front Cover Enos Mafokte and London Pride

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Contents 11. Portrait ~ Enos Mafokate Soweto is not a place one normally associates with horse riding, or any equine activities, in Johannesburg. But what if I told you that a man who rode at the Olympics and competed at the Royal International Horse Show at Wembley, in the UK, has a riding centre there? 11 20

20. Beyond Racing ~ Do you Recorginse Me Hard Currency is honestly an amazing horse, and I am privileged that he chose me to be his person when he stopped racing.â&#x20AC;?

22. Showjumping ~ Erreplus Presidents Cup 2017 The much anticipated prestigious Erreplus Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cup celebrated a resounding 15 years of partnership between Midfeeds/Tack and Togs and Maple Ridge

19 22

30. Turf Diaries ~ Less is More In horseracing weight is everything. Each horse must carry a predetermined specific weight, set by the Official Handicapper in every race which it runs in. And every single gram counts.

Content 37. Endurance ~ Eastern Cape Charm

39. Breeders Cavalli Saddlebred Stud

Saddlers are often seen as ballerinas and prima donnas and with their 37be showy nature are often thought to too hot to handle and not suitable for other disciplines beyond being showhorses.

Content

45. Gaited Traveller ~ Bhangazi Horse Safaris

The Sketch Pad ~ Sculptor Johan du Plessis

Bhangazi Horse Safaris is based in St Lucia Estuary, KwaZulu-Natal. We are lucky to be surrounded by one of the most beautiful and diverse nature reserves in South Africa, the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

Scan the Qwerky code to listen to the full interview with Enos Mafokate

Portrait ~ Enos Mafokate

Stable Views ~ Feeding the “Bad Doer”?

Beyond Racing ~ Do you recognise me

Showjumping ~ Erreeplus Presdents Cup 2017

Turf Diaries ~ Less is more

Saddle Fitting ~ Roberto Rasia

Grooms ~ Beyond Passionate

Endurance ~ Eastern Cape Charm

wine Review ~ Excelsior i

Breeders ~ Cavalli Thoroughbred Stud

Gaited Traveller ~ Bhangazi Horse Safaris

Hillary Hoofpick

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THE SKETCH PAD

The

Sketch Pad Sculptor Johan du Plessis

Johan became a full time artist in 2009 after settling in the pictures village of Cullinan only 30 km east of Pretoria. Five years ago Johan put together his first horse by using horseshoes dating back to WW2. Since then he has made more than 200 of these majestic animals, and worked away more than a ton of shoes. Roughly 22 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 25 shoes are used in one sculpture and are mounted on sandstone or wood. After the metal work is done, the piece is treated with a robust transparent copper look coating. In the latest creations he started adding leather strapping by cutting up a bridal and even incorporating the metal bit. Although similarities in these sculptures, each horse are unique and comes with its own name. Permanently on display in Cullinan and selected art galleries around South Africa, many horse and art lovers has already invested in these sculptures. Johan and his wife Cathlene owns a coffee shop / art gallery in Cullinan, called Cullinan Trading Post. By focusing on tourism they combine all of these on one premises.

As a town filled with history and old buildings, Johan became part of this old style living and even stays in a house 111 years old. This all contribute to his styles and methods of work. By using old blacksmithing techniques he spend most his days behind an anvil. He works in all types of metals including bronze and most of his sculptures are being manufactured by hand and not casted. Making it even more collectable. In making a variety of sculptures in different mediums, the horseshoe sculptures quickly became his signature and top seller.

Contact details: www.johanduplessissculptor.com plessisjohan@vodamail.co.za Cullinan Trading Post. 96 Oak Avenue, Cullinan. Johan 0827876824

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Enos Mafokate South African Pioneer

PORTRAIT

By Ashleigh Hughes Soweto is not a place one normally associates with horse riding, or any equine activities, in Johannesburg. But what if I told you that a man who rode at the Olympics and competed at the Royal International Horse Show at Wembley, in the UK, has a riding centre there? A man with such tangible passion and dedication to his sport, that you cannot walk away from him without feeling utterly inspired, and filled with such hope for the future. That man is Enos Mafokate. And you need to hear his extraordinary story… Before he even starts telling us that story, we see it unfold before our eyes. The children (who range from 7 to 18 years old), at the riding centre are all diligently grooming, mucking out stables, saddling up horses. They have ear-to-ear smiles as they are completely lost in the joy that comes with working with, and riding horses. “You won’t see a groom here,” Enos assures us. “I teach all the children to do everything themselves. Even when we go to shows, we are the only ones without grooms. But please don’t misunderstand me; I am not looking for cheap labour. I teach them these things so they can learn some responsibility in life. They must respect the hard work that is needed to succeed both on the horses and in life.”

“Kids need freedom to choose their own path in life. I want to show them everything about horses, so they can be exposed to something they would normally never know about. This is how we let their talents shine through. This is how we let them grow.”

PORTRAIT

Tiamo “Future SA Champion Show Jumper” “They didn’t like us competing with the white people in those days. I remember at one show in Klerksdorp, I finished first and second in the two qualifying classes, and also won the championship class. The lady who finished second was so angry that I had beaten her, that she refused come to the prize giving! But it was at this time that they officially stopped calling us grooms, and started calling us black riders. Finally we had achieved some recognition!”

It was at this same tender age, that Enos first realised that he wanted to ride horses. He grew up surrounded by animals and was drawn to them immediately. “We had chickens, and goats, cats and pigs. I spent all my time with them. I rode donkeys back then. We didn’t have bridles and saddles, and my ‘reins’ were just a stick to steer with. I would always see the white people riding horses though. I knew then that I wanted to ride them too. I was about 9 or 10, and when I met a young boy riding a small pony.” What happened after that encounter, put Enos on the path that he is still on to this day.

This appalling animosity was only restricted to his home country however, In 1980 he was invited to ride at the Royal International Horse Show in the UK. “Errol and Anneli (Wucherpfennig) helped me a lot back then. When David Broome came to ride in South Africa in 1979, he asked Anneli why there were no black riders at the shows. She told him that it was a terrible shame, as there were many good riders who were not allowed to compete because of the law”.

It was deep in the ugly heart of the apartheid era in about 1954. Enos was out riding his trusty donkey when he met this young white boy. After a brief discussion, they decided to swop mounts. The white boy had never ridden a donkey before and Enos certainly wanted to experience riding a real pony. The reins and saddle were completely strange. Enos did not know what to make of them. Unfortunately the child’s irate father came storming up and put an end to the innocent exchange. “My child will not ride a black man’s donkey!” he bellowed! This brief, but terrifying incident summed up the challenges which lay ahead for Enos, as he forged his way through his riding career. At every point along the way, the racial oppression of apartheid was an obstacle. In 1977, he became the first black member of what was the Transvaal Horse Society, but he was only allowed to compete in the Transvaal in the early days. He was the first rider to compete at the Royal Agricultural Show in Pietermaritzburg, since its inception, 127 years previously.

PORTRAIT treated all kinds of animals. He so desperately wanted to change this. “Animals should not be abused. They must be loved and treated with respect”

David Broome was completely astounded by the situation so he decided to organise a sponsored trip to the UK for Enos to ride and compete on equal terms. Broome’s sister provided a beautiful Show horse called Let’s Go, as a mount for Enos, and they managed to win their very first showing show they competed at in Wales. He won the Overall Reserve Champion Working Hunter at that show to – no small feat in the country that is the home and origin of the Showing discipline. Anneli, who was born in Scotland, was still living in the UK at that stage, accompanied Enos around on his trip, and she had to sort out quite a few issues on his behalf. Remember that the political climate in those days was particularly volatile, and Anneli was very instrumental in reassuring parties in both countries, that the trip had zero political motivations, and was simply a horseman wanting ride a horse at a show. They were both well received by the Royal family, and in fact many years later, it lead to Princess Anne making a visit to the Soweto Equestrian Centre herself. Enos also competed at Wembley, where he finished fifth overall, in the Supreme Championship. Don’t forget that this was all done on a strange horse, in a strange country, with great public scrutiny – a superb result under substantial pressure.

His main function at the PDSA was to assist the local residents with their horses – most of them are animals of burden, which pull carts heavily laden, with either coal or scrap metal. The basic needs of these horses and donkeys are often neglected, but Enos not only treated the injured and sick animals, he worked hard to educate the owners on how to provide better care for them. To this day many of the cart horse owners still bring their horses to him for care and advice, at the SEC. “They know that I no longer work for the PDSA, but how can I turn them away? Sometimes we lend our stronger ponies out to the people who really look after their animals, to help in the coal yards. I keep watch on them, but they are well looked after, so I don’t mind.”

Another community service he provides, is giving disabled children riding therapy. He tells us that there is nothing he finds more rewarding that seeing a child who has not moved or talked in their entire life, start moving their hands, or sometimes even talking after they have ridden a horse. He pauses and looks away out of the window for a moment, as his eyes brim with emotion – ours do too. An overwhelming moment for us all. In 1992, Enos was part of a Development Team, which attended the Barcelona Olympics. He did not compete himself, but represented South Africa as an official Sports Ambassador, at the first Olympic Games in which South Africa had been allowed to take part in, in over 25 years. He describes this as one of his proudest moments. When the Soweto Equestrian Centre was first started in 2007, as a ‘not for profit’ organisation, Enos famously said, “One day a child from my centre will represent South Africa at the Olympic Games.”

Giving back to the community is something that Enos constantly strives to do. Way back in 1990, when he was working as the “horse man” for the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) in Mofolo South, he had already started giving riding lessons to the young children in the area. It was here that he became aware of how badly children

The arena Enos uses to teach Vaulting in is small, but adequate. “The reason we do not have many older children competing on horses in competitions, is because we do not have horses suitable for them to do so. We mostly have ponies here and they

PORTRAIT

are fine for the small children. But we are good at vaulting here, and the kids love it!” he says with an ear-to-ear smile. And what they have achieved over the past few years in the Vaulting arena is really remarkable! The first time his team won the Gauteng Regional Vaulting Championship was in November 2009 – they had only started the training program of March that year. Just a month later, they represented Gauteng at the South African National Vaulting Championships, where they were crowned the South African Mixed Team Vaulting Champions. They have won again at SA Champs another four times. 28 of his vaulting pupils have been awarded Gauteng Provincial Colours for Vaulting. Children from his centre have also attended the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky in 2010, and again at in Normandy in France in 2014, so maybe that “Olympic dream” is not such a lofty one!

have a border fence around it. I am so worried that one day the squatters will move in and take our land. The city council has tried many things here on this land. They tried hockey, cycling and even soccer, but they were not successful. When I came here it was just a white elephant! Now we have 20 horses here” The riding centre facilities are quite modest – most of what we see has been funded by donations, he tells us. “This very building we are sitting in – it was a toilet block! There was nothing else here on this property when we came. Those toilets smelt very bad, but we came with gloves and masks and cleaned everything, and now it is our office. We have worked hard to get to this stage, but there is still so much to do. We want to improve all the time.” “I thank God all the time for the path he has put me on in my life. I still want to give up sometimes. But then I look around at my facilities and I see the happy children here, and then I know I can carry on again.”

The City of Johannesburg gave him 28 acres of land to start the Soweto Riding Centre in 2006, which comprised of two adjoining erfs. “The second piece, where the horses are grazing now, does not

LIST OF ACHIEVEMENTS OF ENOS MAFOKATE 1976 – Placed 2nd in the Rothman’s Derby 1977 – The first black member of the Transvaal Horse Society 1977 & 1978 – Won the Championship Class at the Constantia Show Grounds in Cape Town 1978 – Became the first black rider in 127 years, to compete at the Royal Agricultural Show in Pietermaritzburg, where he was Reserve Champion in the King George’s Championship 1980 – He was the first black rider to compete overseas, and the first South African to compete overseas for more than 20 years, when he went to the UK to compete in the Royal International Horse Show at Wembley 1992 – Attended the Barcelona Olympic Games as part of a development team, as a Sports Ambassador to South Africa 1997 – Completed a Sports Management course in Belgium 2007 – Founded the current Soweto Equestrian Centre in Rockville, Soweto. 2008 – Awarded he Sports Volunteer of the Year, at the SA Sports Awards 2010 – Accompanied one of his Vaulting pupils, Khensani Maluleke, to Kentucky in the USA, where he competed at the FEI World Equestrian Games 2014 – Accompanied two more of his Vaulting pupils, Karabo Mafokate and Bongani Mvumvu, to the FEI World Equestrian Games in Normandy, France. 2015 – He was awarded the Steve Tshwete Lifetime Achievement Award.

PORTRAIT

South African rider makes Wembly History 16

DRESSAGE

Gauteng Dressage Awards Gauteng Dressage Council By Paula Taylor On the 18th March, a wonderful autumn evening, we celebrated our top Dressage Riders at the Gauteng Dressage Awards Evening, hosted at the Meredith’s beautiful Eaton Farm.

Fantastic prizes were sponsored by very generous local businesses namely Windmill –on-Main, Windmill Shavings, EarthEco Essentials, Espoir Equestrian, Western Shoppe, Midfeeds, Back on Track South Africa, Riders Saddlery, and Fulvic Health. Thank you so much to these sponsors, who helped make the evening a special one. Changes in the organisational structure over recent years resulted in this particular Awards Evening covering winners from both 2015 and 2016. It is encouraging to see such enthusiasm in our younger riders, who will certainly be bringing fabulous talent through the ranks to challenge the status quo in our senior ranks.

It is wonderful to have so many familiar names at the top of our discipline – but we also look forward to some new names throwing down the gauntlet to make the next year an interesting challenge for everyone. We would like to thank everyone for not only attending the Awards Evening, but also for continuing to support dressage in Gauteng in the spirit of good sportsmanship (so evident by the enthusiastic encouragement for all of the winners), and above all, for producing and caring for so many beautiful horses.

Elementary-Medium: 2015: Waterside Cleodwr – Sylvia Dixon 2016: Waterside Magic Flute – Lia Wheeler Medium: 2015: Café Sans Lait - Chane Malherbe 2016: Atwee Ivan – Matthew Meise Children: Novice: 2015: Waterside Mr Moonlight – Andrew Thomas 2016: Devondale Cameo – Aleksandra Weidhase The winners in each category were: Pony Riders: Prelim: 2015: Galaxy Man – Caitlin Shulz 2016: Hercules – Juan-Christiaan Morton

Elementary: 2015: Pinecreek Bolshoi – Rebecca Tait Juniors: Prelim: 2015: Saharan Beach – Kaylin du Toit 2016: Midas Touch Super Nova – Lolli Brown

South African rider makes Wembly History

Novice: 2015: Llandilo Grand National – Lolli Brown 2016: Sawannah – Janina Rexrodt

Elementary: 2015: Waterside Magic Flute – Lia Wheeler 2016: Waterside Bucks Fizz – Tania Von Eckardstein

Novice: 2015: Kilshane Kinsale – Nicole Ahier 2016: La Figaro – Milise van Staden

PORTRAIT Elementary: 2015: Waterside Gypsey Jones – Sylvia Dixon 2016: Callaho Gibraltar – Francesca Sanne

Advanced: 2015: Marinier – Andrea Harrison 2016: Mambo N – Bronwen Meredith

Elementary-Medium: 2015: Schwaike Red Desert – Jenna Cameron 2016: Voigtskirsch Silvano – Caitlin Wheeler

Small Tour: 2015: Stalvoerman’s United – Suzanne Horne 2016: Don Natiello – Dominey Alexander

Medium: 2015: Café Sans Lait - Chane Malherbe 2016: Voigtskirsch Dekan – Coutney Fraser

Medium Tour: 2015: Ulivia STV – Anthea Michelatos 2016: Ulivia STC – Anthea Michelatos

Advanced: 2015: Winslow Chelsea – Francesca Sanne 2016: Float On – Rebecca Tait

Big Tour: 2015: Delgado M – Johan Roodt 2016: Delgado M – Johan Roodt

Junior Small Tour: 2016: Winslow Chelsea – Francesca Sanne

Para Riders:

Adults: Prelim: 2015: Claratal Brentano – Maxine Roupell 2016: Senor Da Vinci – Karen Keller

Grade 1B: 2015: Sultan – Charmaine Watts 2016: Sultan – Charmaine Watts II 2015: Michelle Lavinson – Claire De Lune III 2015: Herman Labuschagne - Rodrique Leo IV 2015: Gary Allpass – SA Horse Feeds Sharp Sharp

Novice: 2015: Mossandi Ramses – Maxine Roupell 2016: Kellow Superstar – Kate Johns Elementary: 2015: Cellehof Stud’s Ballerina – Dominey Alexander 2016: Seeis Angani – Sabine Klehe Elementary-Medium: 2015: Serano – Phillipa Terblanche 2016: Lebensfroh R – Andrea Harrison

Top Import: 2015 & 2016: Johan Roodt’s Delgado M Top SA Warmblood: 2015 & 2016: Suzanne Horne’s Cellehof Tadoo Top Thoroughbred: 2015: Andrea Douglas’ Sir Edward 2016: Claire Martin’s Mark In Time

Medium: 2015: Cellehof Zim Zala Bim – Dominey Alexander 2016: Rathmor Caprice – Siobhan Records

STABLE VIEWS

Feeding the “Bad Doer”?

By Hannah Botha - MSC Equine Science (Royal Agricultural College UK) What makes a Bad Doer. Horses that are consistently in poor condition, no matter what time of the year

• Look at super fibre sources, such as Beet products. These products have a high digestibility and are easily fermented in the hind gut. They provide high levels of energy (calories) so are ideal for horses needing weight gain, but are not “heating”.

“The individual metabolic rate determines whether a horse is an good or bad doer. Metabolism is the speed at which the body burns fuels for energy in order to maintain normal body functions. A slow metabolism is one that can function on little input of fuel energy. Conversely, a fast metabolism is one that needs a higher caloric intake in order to function properly. Temperament often goes hand in hand with metabolic rate. A nervous horse may require more calories than a calm-tempered one to maintain the same body condition. A tense horse may spend more time stall walking or weaving while the calm horse conserves energy stores” (KER, Equinews)

Starch When a horse cannot maintain weight on fibre alone, the addition of starch in the form of grains/concentrate feeds is a next step to increasing the energy of the diet. However keep in mind that too much grain can cause starch overload in the small intestine which can result in colic, laminitis, ulcers etc. The important factor is to select a concentrate that, firstly, ensures that the total starch component is derived from various sources and, secondly, that a percentage of the starch is heat treated (e.g. micronized or extruded). Also, keep meal sizes small (no more than 2.5kg per meal) will help to reduce overload. Before changing re-evaluate the amount you feed, as a horse’s weight loss may simply be the result of not feeding enough food for his current workload, and a simple increase will help.

Before looking straight at the horse’s diet, however, it is important to rule out other causes of poor condition/ weight loss, such as

• Teeth issues

• Parasite load (intestinal worms) • Gastric ulcers. • Increased workload • Pain • Medication • Change in temperature • Feeding the wrong energy level - be realistic about the amount of work a horse does, then match his workload to the correct product. It is no use feeding a Light energy product if the horse is working at medium level. It is important to note that the protein % of a feed does not always indicate its energy value.

I can’t increase my concentrate feed without my horse getting hot This is one of the main concerns when more feed is needed. Firstly, introduce a higher energy (calorie) feed slowly. Suddenly providing a horse with more energy/calories in their diet will increase the likelihood of “excitability”. Secondly, look at the energy source provided. If your feed contains a lot of sugar and grain then perhaps look for one based on a “High Fat, High fibre” principle These feeds release energy gradually and are less likely to promote hot behaviour. Alternatively look at adding fat to your horse current feed, instead of increasing his feed.

Insufficient energy (calories) is the main cause of poor body condition. When a horse does not have enough energy in the diet to maintain normal bodily functions, the body will break down its own muscle tissue and also deplete most of the fat reserves. This results in emaciation, with poor muscle definition and protruding bones.

Fat

The simple solution to poor weight is to increase the energy (calorie) content of the diet. There are three key nutrients which can supply increased energy in the diet, fibre, starch and fat.

The bonus of feeding fat is that it is far friendlier to the gut and can even help horses prone to colic and gastric ulcers. Fat is more concentrated and contains about 2 ½ times the energy of grains per weight- so 250ml (1cup) of oil contains the same amount of energy (calories) as 1.5kg of oats. Up to 400ml can be fed but generally one cup per day will be sufficient.

Fibre Of the three major energy sources, fibre is the most important, most underused but also the safest. For the bad doer, however, hay/grazing alone will generally not maintain weight, but there are fibre feeding strategies that can increase the ability of the horse to derive energy from fibre.

Dietary fat is mostly added in the form of oils. It is important to note that oils differ hugely in quality, and feeding too much oil with a poor omega-3 to omega-6 ratio could have negative effects, thus, when feeding oils look for those that are blended (Omega 6 and 3 together) or those weighted more towards Omega 3 (Canola, Linseed and Fish Oils).

• Provide more good quality hay at a minimum of 1.5% of body weight in hay per day. However, for poor doers, this may need to be increased to 2% if not ad lib (as much as they will eat)

Supplements

• Check out the hay- look for a younger cut of hay that has a higher leaf portion, indicating its of higher

For most horses, making the above changes will assist with weight gain, however for some, a supplemental Live Probiotic Culture may be worthwhile to help assist the gut in functioning at its best.

nutritional value. Lucerne has a higher energy (calorie) content compared to most grass hays and thus it can be used successfully for weight gain.

Photograph: Coutesy The Hong Kong Jockey Club

BEYOND RACING

Do you Recognise Me?

Full brother to CapeTown Noir (Western Winter x Akin Feet by FortWood)

Having won my first start by 6 lengths, I went on to notch up another 10 wins, for R1,373,875, at 2 to 7, 1000 - 1400m, including the Grade 3 August Stakes, placed 34 times, including 2nd in Grade 3 August Stakes, 3rd Senor Santa Handicap Grade 2 and again 3rd in G3 August Stakes. Bred by Lammerskraal Stud and trained by Sean Tarry for owners Chris van Niekerk and Markus Jooste. I am Across the Ice: This 10 year old gelding was retired from racing in February 2016 to former assistant trainer to the Tarry yard, Debbie le Roux. He has merely moved a few stable blocks down from his previous stable in Randjesfontein and is much loved companion and sometimes lead pony for Debbie in Alec Laird’s yard. With his relaxed demeanour and quirky character it’s easy to see why Debbie fell in love with him after working with the sand soldier for three years. He is very clearly very well and looks more like a quarter horse ready for barrel racing, despite the fact that he is fed only hay and Lucerne cubes! He is a fantastic example of a Thoroughbred who having raced for almost 8 years has retired sound and well to the next chapter of his life.

BEYOND RACING Lisa Williams and Discovery Campbell

Hard Currency Not as successful on the race-track but still a two time winner Hard Currency: (Hard Up x Soviet Bride by Jallad) was bred by Normandy Stud and trained by Erico Verdonese for the Smith/Heynes partnership for 2 wins, R152,350, at 4, 1600m, placed 7 times. His owner Michelle Williams, tells her story: “He came off the track in mid-2012, with a tendon injury. I was involved at the stable yard that he was sent to, to rest. While he was there, the decision was made not to bring him back into training and to let him retire to a recreational home. I was the lucky person to be in the right place at the right time. I purchased him and he became mine as of November 2012. He was sound but due to his legs

we allowed him to rest until January the next year. We worked with him on the ground and allowed him to experience being a horse. He discovered water and loves playing in a dam and rolling. He looks an absolute sight at times, but he is a happy boy and that is all that matters to me. He has been brought on slowly and he loves his life. He is looking amazing, I am sometimes jokingly told he looks like he is in foal but he is round and happy. I ride him in smaller classes at shows, where he looks after me but Billy du Toit rides him in the 1.20m classes and he’s a gem. He is honestly an amazing horse, and I am privileged that he chose me to be his person when he stopped racing.”

Keep sending us your Beyond Racing Thoroughbred stories to catherine@imagineracing.co.za or on Face Book at https://www.facebook.com/BeyondRacingSA/b

ERREPLUS PRESIDENTS CUP 2017 The much anticipated prestigious Erreplus President’s Cup celebrated a resounding 15 years of partnership between Midfeeds/Tack and Togs and Maple Ridge, which is set in the beautiful countryside in the Cradle of Mankind. Show jumpers turned up in numbers from all over, as well as a few from out of the country, to take part in this fiercely competitive event. The venue was resplendent with colorful signage worthy of any world event. In this age of Smart phones, even social network sites were abuzz with updates of the event as it was happening. The equine lineage was the Who’s Who of show jumping, beautiful shiny coats were flashing everywhere, stunning plaits and lustrous tails. It was a perfect day for an outing with the family. To spice things up for the spectators, Tack ‘n Togs held a competition, with the prize being a whopping hamper worth R8 000.00 from one of their top house brands Horseware Ireland, which in the end was one by Natasha Erasmus. Dominey Alexander and Armageddon scooped the coveted Erreplus title, in a tight and very fast paced final, being the only competitors to have a clean sheet, incurring no penalties throughout the show. A special thank you to Verity from Maple Ridge Equestrian Centre and all her dedicated team, as well as SA Show Jumping for running a first class event. To all the sponsors who very generously sponsored championship classes throughout the weekend

ERREPLUS PRESIDENTS CUP WINNERS 2017 2017 Erreplus Presidents Cup Gold Dominey Alexander and Armageddon Silver Lisa Williams and Discovery Campbell Bronze Barry Taylor and Counter Attack

Erreplus 3rd Competition 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th

Samantha McIntosh - Let’s Win Anya Moller - Alzu Lombard Lisa Williams - Discovery Campbell Chris van Der Merwe - Kudas Domino van der Boswinning Dominey Alexander - Armageddon Barry Taylor/Counter Attack Nicole Horwood - Mark White Nissan Capital Hitoshi Shaun Neill - Clyde Z

1st Leg Stal Hilmar Meyer Series 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th

Paige Lee Goetsch - Rathmor Quiet Man Courtney Webber - V Cachet vd Dwerse Hage Hayley Preen - Voigtskirch Dunmore Jenna Barrow - Liberty’s Capital Contagion Oliver Bishop - Belvedere Matthew Morrison - MCSA Alzu Luanda Danielle Lemmer - Callaho Elmo

TURF DIARIES

ERREPLUS PRESIDENTS CUP WINNERS 2017 Hausberger Financial Services 1.40 Championship 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th

Heather Robertson - Charmeur M Mandy Johnstone - Lambus Danielle Lemmer - Capital Conlanc Mikayla Mcdonald - Lady Mcdonald Bronwyn Meredith Short - Quidchin Bellignies Z

Victor Ludorum : Mandy Johnstone - Lambus

Thomson and Delport 1. 35 Championship 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th 11th 12th 13th

Kelly O’Connor - Hear van de Ben Bryan Meyer - Caspar Marlise Vorster - V Quito Cappuccino Cailin Fensham - Sundays Best Anya Moller - Alzu Orissa Jodi Pieters - Red Rum Jonathan Clarke - Data Sciences Jerba van den Bischop Rainer Korber - Callaho Lansink Theunis Griessel - Schwaike Bogena Nicola Sime Riley - Sunny Park Stables Chandecure Colin Ferreira - Arden Valeva Simon Hendry - Erreplus Caspar Grant Langley - Foresyte Bengston

Dunkeld 1.30 Championship 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 4th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th 11th 12th 13th 14th 15th 16th

Tarryn Combrink - Brandenburg Crimson Tide Nicole Horwood - Mark White Nissan Capital Look at Me Oliver Bishop - Richmond Park Tyla Leyshon - JK Starfire Danielle Lemmer - Callao Elmo Oscar Ncube - Caretado Liam Stevens - Nissan Calina Rene Fourie - Changing Wind Bronwyn Watson - Quidello Toss Raynor - Perfomtex Assegai Story Teller Ronnie Lawrence - Optimus Ash Hausberger - Discovery Camden Blue Natalie Halford/ Bosporus Gail Foxcroft - Equifox Sting Charley Crockart - Fantastic Flight Sophie Teede - Spice Age

TURF DIARIES

Harrogate 1.20 Adult Championship

Spurwing Pony rider 1.00m Championship

1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th 11th 12th 13th

1st 2nd 3rd 4th

Ingrid Griessel - Schwaike Zafaan Chris van der Merwe - Callao Lets Go Chani Swanepoel - Reflection Kelly O Connor - Callaho For Scotty Kyla Griffin - Callaho Flintstone Sonia Kroon - HSB Pyrenees Heather Robertson - Pohlands Lairdo Charl Kotze - Alzu Sashi Kelly O Connor - Midgard Zhakiro Steven Atkinson - CMH Quick Lady Sunia de Kock - Cadenc

Victor Ludorum: Sanne Klaassen - Sugar Plum

Equus Adult 1.00m Championship

Amelia Campbell Horne - Ricochet du Rouet Z

Nina Holloway - Cruisa Hakuna Matt

Victor Ludorum: Ryan Wallbridge - Bring the Action

1st: 2nd: 3rd: 4th: 5th: 6th: 7th:

Time Is On My Side - Wills Husband Capital Domino - Kimberley Hathaway Capital Richelle - Danielle Lemmer Acapolca - Robyn Shaw For Cabelle - Leona van der Merwe Highly Desirable - Chantel Wybenga Alzu She’s A Lady - Courtney Tully

Victor Ludorum: Capital Domino - Kimberley Hathaway

Bene Junior Championship Gold Silver Bronze

Jamie van Rooyen - Mysterious Dark Alley Jamie Meyer - Bodenhausen Le Chocolatier Zandi Alcock - Assegai Summer Song Oenone Castle - Lady Chika

Thomas Triggol - Callahos Charlien 7 Courtney Webber - Brandenburg Chansellor Kyla Brimacombe - Franlaren Bocelli

Furter Carstens & Partners Junior 1.00m Championship

1st: Salsa Dancer - Mikaela Nish 2nd: Abraham Lincoln - Abbi Kyffin 3rd: Rotoflo Voigtskirch Zidane - Jade Coetzee Paige Lee Goetsch - Rathmor Quiet Man 4th: Utah van de Dwerse Hagen - Charnay Bean Courtney Webber - Brandenburg Chansellor 5th: Absolute Flush - Jenna Hamer Thomas Triggol - Callahos Charlien 7 6th: Callaho For Quita - Demi Lee Jacobs Erin Dos Santos - Cincinati 7th: Caligula - Jean Marie Catstens Matthew Morrison - MCSA Alzu Luanda Victor Ludorum: Salsa Dancer - Mikaela Nish Kyla Brimacombe - Franlaren Bocelli

3rd Competition Junior Class 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th

Comfi Pet Products Junior 90cm Championship

Epol Junior 1.20 Championship 1st 2nd 3rd 4th

Olivia Garton - Phambile Marjolize Steyn - Capital Angelina Nicole Gibbs - Indeem Marjolize Steyn - Rathmor Baronne

1st:

Rooigras Oordentlik - Michaela Janse van Rensburg 2nd: Road Warrior - Eunice Roets 3rd: Rustler - Tayla Kalkwarf 4th: Thokoza - Dylan Becker

Equipage Pony Rider Championship

Victor Ludorum: Rooigras Oordentlik - Michaela Janse van Rensburg

Gold Olivia van Rooyen - Roly Starlight Silver Hannah van Niekerk - Scooby Doo Bronze Olivia Van Rooyen - Vito 22

Equifeeds Adult 90cm Championship

Equipage 3rd competition Pony Rider 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th

1st: 2nd: 3rd: 4th: 5th

Hailey Strydom - Magic Merlin Sydney Swanson - Highover Ferdinando Jason Slade - Data Sciences My Irish Boy Amy Michau - GI Janet Hannah van Niekerk - Scooby Doo Reine Marshal - Waterside Nile Wizard

6th:

Waltzing Home - Louise de Luca Caesours Fox - Caryn D’araujo Free Cell - Jade Carstens Nellie van het Heyveld - Jessica de Wit Royal Feeds Capital Christo - Kimberley Hathaway Bodenhausen Zeus - Gemma Chambers

Victor Ludorum: Waltzing Home - Louise de Luca

TURF DIARIES

Less Is Always More

By Ashleigh Hughes (Love Racing) In horseracing weight is everything. Each horse must carry a predetermined specific weight, set by the Official Handicapper in every race which it runs in. And every single gram counts. or rubber mouthpieces, but there are other bits which are fairly common too. The Dexter Ring Bit is a very popular choice. The extra ring which is attached to the snaffle, and goes through the mouth, prevents the bit from being pulled through the mouth sideways. It also prevents the horse from grabbing the bit with its teeth, and the snaffle mouthpiece is quite thin, making it a little harsher than a normal snaffle. Recently an Australian company has designed a more comfortable version called a “Triabit”. The snaffle is a normal loose ring, with the ring itself more ergonomically designed, for more comfort and to reduce the harsh nutcracker action of the

The general rule of thumb is that 500 grams is equal to a length in distance – a length being the unit used to measure the distance a horse finishes behind the horse in front of it, in a race. It is approximately 2.4 meters, or 8 feet. So a heavy bridle, or any superfluous equipment, could theoretically make a horse finish a length behind a horse with less equipment. With that in mind, when trainers present their horses on race days, they tend to use the least amount of the lightest equipment possible. They are required, by the National Horseracing Authority (NHA), to ensure that all equipment used on or in relation to a horse, complies with their rules. Bridles can be made of PVC or leather, but the rules state that the reins must be rubber covered, and must be attached to the bit by loops, and not buckles. The use of leather reins is completely prohibited in South African racing. All bridles must also be fitted with an Irish Martingale, to stop the reins coming over the horse’s head when the jockey is riding out a finish. No other martingales are permitted in races. One of the most important requirements of horseracing equipment is that it must not get entangled or hooked on the metal framework of the starting stalls. There are restrictions on bits too. The NHA rule on bits simply states, “The use of cheek bits is prohibited”. This means that any bit which has an extension, or extra ring attached to the normal loose ring, is not allowed. This completely rules out bits like Pelhams, long shank gags of all kinds, rope gags, multi-ring gags and Fulmer snaffles, among others. Trainers mostly opt to use loose ring snaffles with steel, Happy Mouth

Dexter Ring Bit

snaffle. Most horses work exceptionally well in this new version of an old favourite. Another far more severe bit is the Norton Perfection, or Citation bit-named after the famous American

TURF DIARIES noise. In official terms the NHA vet will report that the horse has “choked up”. Horses really battle to win when they are affected with DDSP and tying the tongue prevents the displacement in the majority of cases. Horses known to displace their soft palates have been galloped with, and without tongue ties, fitted with an overland or dynamic endoscope. The resulting footage has shown that the tongue tie is definitely beneficial to DDSP sufferers. Additional data analysis done in the UK has shown that horses tend to have a higher than average stakes earnings, even if they do not suffer from DDSP, if they are fitted with a tongue tie. (The study: “The Effect Of ‘Tongue Tie’ Use On Racing Performance Of Thoroughbreds In The UK” SZ Barakzai, C Finnegan, LA Boden) But doesn’t a tongue tie hurt a horse? It would seem so on first glance, but the tongue ties need to be comfortable so as not to upset the horse and undo all its positive effects. It is normally a short piece of crepe bandage or ladies pantyhose and is tied around the tongue once – tight enough to stay in place, but not so tight as to restrict blood flow or cause discomfort. It is then looped around the lower jaw and secured. Tongue ties are put onto the horse while being saddled up, about 20 minutes before the race. They are then removed immediately after the race and so are only in place for approximately 25 minutes on a race day. It is very rare to find a horse with damage from a tongue tie as most tongue injuries are caused by a traumatic injury from the horse’s own teeth. Occasionally there are horses that have nearly permanent displacement their soft palates. The Cornell Collar was devised to assist them. This piece of equipment has a leather strap which goes under the horse’s throat. It has a small attachment which lifts and prevents the larynx from retracting backwards and in 90% of cases prevents DDSP. The Cornell Collar must also be declared on race day. Unobstructed airflow is one of the most crucial things for a racehorse during a race, and the Flair Nasal Strip was developed to assist with that. Their effectiveness in reducing Exercise Induced Pulmonary Haemorrhage (EIPH) or “bleeding” has

racehorse from the 1940s, who famously won the US Triple Crown, wearing this particular bridle. As curb chains and bit shanks (for poll action) are prohibited in races, a different bit for the really strong-pulling horses was devised to fit in with racing regulations. It is generally used as a very last resort because of its harsh action. There are two snaffles attached to one another. The upper one is considerably thinner than the main snaffle. The upper snaffle is attached to a y-shaped elastic bit lifter and this increases the action on the horse’s palate. The lower thicker snaffle places pressure on the bars of the mouth and has a severe nutcracker action. Citation Bit

When horses put their tongues over the bit the jockey lacks control, but there are various measures to address this. The simplest method is to use a bit that has an extra tongue depressor attached. Some horses can still get their tongues over though. Another option is to use a special set of rubber bit lozenges, which attach to a y-shaped extension on the bridge of the horse’s nose, and extends upwards to be attached to the poll piece of the bridle. This lifts the bit in the horse’s mouth, and mostly prevents the tongue coming over the bit. It is called a Bit Lifter, or sometimes an Australian Cheeker. The third method is to use a tongue tie, although the first two methods are preferred for tongue issues alone. The tongue tie has been found to have a far more significant effect on racehorses though. In fact the effect is so marked, that in South Africa you must declare a horse to run with a tongue tie and it is printed in the race card. There is a condition called Dorsal Displacement of the Soft Palate, or DDSP, where the horse’s soft palate can displace upwards out of its normal position, and interfere with the horse’s airflow when he breathes. As you can imagine this is a serious issue, especially at the end of the race when the horse will be breathing very hard and needs every bit of available oxygen. The horse will actually make a gurgling or snoring

Blinkers

TURF DIARIES with plastic scoops or cups attached next to the eyes, to channel the horse’s vision to the front. Most blinkers only have half cups, and their purpose is to prevent the horse from getting distracted so they focus more on what’s ahead, rather than what’s on either side of them. That channelled focus is often the difference between winning and losing. One often sees a marked improvement in form when horses are fitted with blinkers. Pacifiers are another form of headgear used on racehorses. Originally they were designed to prevent sand being kicked up into horse’s eyes, during races held on dirt and sand tracks. But in time, trainers started noticing that they also had a calming effect on certain horses. That is the purpose they are used for in South Africa and they must be declared on race days. They consist of a lightweight material hood, just like blinkers, but they have mesh covers over the eye holes instead. They are generally used on highly strung and uptight horses, but only as a last resort. Another piece of equipment used to make horses focus more during races, is the sheepskin noseband, or shadow roll. They are very fluffy, and often padded to make them bigger, which makes the horse lower its head. Not only does that lengthen the horse’s stride, but it gives the rider a little more control. There is nothing worse than riding a horse with his head held too high, while sitting with short irons. These horses have been called “star gazers” for good reason! In the USA, sheepskin nosebands are also called shadow rolls, as they partially obstruct the horse’s vision for the few metres directly in front of his nose. If a horse is

French Blinkers

known to jump over shadows on the ground, that sheepskin noseband will reduce that tendency. Some trainers used coloured sheepskins to easily pick out their horses in a race, while watching on television. Blinkers can sometimes make a horse too keen causing it pull too hard, using up energy unnecessarily, and so a milder alternative has been devised. Two sheepskins can be put on either side of the horse’s head on the cheek pieces of the bridle. They have a similar action to blinkers. The official term is French Blinkers or Cheek Pieces and in Australia they are called Winkers. They must be declared on race days too. Jockeys are responsible for their own saddles, fittings and lead bags. The saddles can weigh as little as 500 grams fully fitted! All of their equipment is made of the lightest but strongest materials though, and are often custom made. They are also responsible for supplying a neck strap, to hold onto as the horses jump from the starting stalls and also a breastplate if necessary. The two point horizontal breastplate is what is allowed in racing. These are mostly made of elastic so as not to restrict the horse’s galloping action. They are attached to the girth point of the saddle, but not the girth itself. A saddle slip at 60km/h could end in disaster! Sometimes people ask what difference just half a kilogram would make to a 500kg horse? Think of a racehorse galloping at a pace of 60km/h, over 1000m or more, for at least one minute, and carrying that weight. It wouldn’t make much difference if it were standing still – but that wouldn’t make much of a race! So less is always more, and that 500g extra could be the factor which causes a horse to win or lose a race by the shortest of margins.

Sheepskin Noseband

been proven repeatedly in various extensive studies all around the world. They work on the principle that the nostrils flap and collapse slightly as the air is inhaled, causing considerable turbulence in the airflow. The nasal strip “reinforces” the nostrils of the horse, and thus reduces that flapping and keeps them flared during a race. The studies have shown that there is less effort involved in breathing too and this reduces fatigue to some extent. Those same studies have also shown that the nasal strips reduce EIPH by up to 50%. Blinkers are the one piece of equipment said to have the most effect on performance in a race. They consist of a hood made of lightweight material,

SADDLE FITTING

The saddle, a place of nonverbal communication The improvements made by the saddle for the horse

“Two great protagonists, horse and rider, who meet, communicate and become one through an object of great fascination, the saddle. The horse’s comfort comes first, performance will definitely follow.” Roberto Rasia under the cantle of the seat, giving the maximum freedom and respect to the lumbar region of the horses.

Erreplus saddlery was developed after Roberto Rasia was in cooperation with Prestige for 25 years, 15 of which he was head of development and research. His passion to improve the technological fit of the saddle to best accommodate the modern sport horses anatomical changes.

“I love these saddles and their capacity to adapt to the horse in an ideal way, allowing great freedom of movement. Using them I can maintain a perfectly balanced and comfortable position. I could ride with them forever!” Adelinde Corneliss

“We need to understand that modern Warmblood horses have indeed changed and evolved. They are much more short-coupled, yet bigger in the front (more broad-shouldered) compared to the older generations. This breeding is to make horses faster-moving and more careful for modern showjumping courses, as well as more powerful, flexible and brilliant for dressage movements.” Says Roberto Rasia The most important vertebrae concerned with the saddle and its correct position is the T16 vertebrae which is considered a sort of carbon joint and allows movement along the longitudinal, frontal and transversal axes. If the T16 vertebrae is blocked, the horse loses the capacity of certain movements which can lead to pain and can encourage the horse to compensate as well as change his movements in order to alleviate the continuous pain. The Erreplus panels are specifically flocked and shaped to end just under the cantle of the seat, giving the maximum freedom and respect to the lumbar region of the horse to compensate as well as change his movements in order to alleviate the continuous pain. The Erreplus panels are specifically flocked and shaped to end just

The saddle itself is versatile for the horse which allows for the horses ever changing conformation. It is made of a superior Italian leather, has flocked

SADDLE FITTING panels, adjustable gullet which can be widened or narrowed to accommodate the horses spine and wither. “For me, I find the Erreplus saddle fits a range of horses, with some needing adjustments due to their back and shape, hence the reason why we need a saddle to best accommodate the modern sports horses anatomical anatomy – whether it is jumping, cross country, dressage, we need to ensure that the horse is at its anatomical best and we cannot underestimate the importance of a well fitted saddle. This making the Erreplus saddle the innovation of the year.” Says Claire Jurgens, saddle fitter at Tack ‘n Togs.

With each equine discipline the horse’s trapezium and surrounding muscles will vary. For example a dressage horse will have a different way of working and developing the needed muscles to achieve the movements required compared to a show jumper or endurance horse. Each specialization may entail a variation of wither widths. The widths go from 29 to 37 with the basic width being 33, a size that is considered standard for most modern horses.

Due to the change of shoulder position Roberto Rasia and his team of equitation experts have developed a new shaped tree with a 5 degree turn, allowing more freedom and respect for the shoulders and trapezius muscles, where previous shaped trees have potentially pinched and blocked the wither, shoulder region. “Saddles and my Deva have been a difficult fit, from the start when she was 3 years old and she tore her sacrailiacligament. Fitting a saddle, since the injury, has been diﬃcult because of the imbalances formed in her body as a consequence. It was only when westarted using an Erreplus, expertly fitted and conscientiously checked by Claire Jurgens, have I been able to address these conformational imbalances, and a saddle that suits my mares huge shoulders, big gates, and innate potential to float in the dressage ring. I feel like I am riding in cotton wool. Thank you Erreplus for an amazing saddle! Proudly Erreplus ambassador” Kerry Hadfie

With all these innovative developments of the design, research and technological advances of the saddle itself, Roberto and his dedicated team of saddle specialists are still tirelessly working towards the ultimate saddle design for both horses and rider. In the next edition of the Erreplus saddles we will be looking at how the developments help the riders position, balance and ultimate riding experience.

Back by popular demand! Roberto Rasia will be back in South Africa. JHB – 14th-16th May 2017 Cape Town – 17th-18th 2017 Save the dates and be sure not to miss out!

Tel:(011)468-1824 or 0861 midfeeds Emergency: 082 499 8684, Fax:(011)252 5072 E-mail: midfeedspty@mweb.co.za Address: 63 Karee Rd, corner Main Rd, Blue Hills, Kyalami. PURVEYORS OF THE EQUESTRIAN LIFESTYLE

34 www.tackntogs.co.za

A GROOMS INSIGHT

Beyond Passionate... By Sikhangele Mbambo

Exciting times! For the very first time since I started this series, I visited Soweto Riding Centre and there I met the young soft spoken gentleman, Nqobile Mdluli. He is not only a groom, but also rides and helps with horse riding lessons. Ngobile at 20, has a very clear and impressive vision of his own future and all of it is either on or around a horse.

which is from 9:00 am to 9:30 am. Cleaning the yard, keeping it neat and presentable are very imperative as we almost always get unexpected visitors. There is always something to do around the centre. On a typical Tuesday for instance, after breakfast we wash the horses that we will use for pony rides, Lollipop and Cheese Boy are the two ponies mostly suited to little children. Uncle Enos tows the horses to a creche in Lensia where he gives pony rides, most of it is rehabitation, the little ones are aged between 3 - 6 years and they are mostly on lead rein. After 2 hours of pony creche we go back and it is time to teach other learners that come to the school, most of them older than the preschoolers. I am always on standby for lead reining while uncle Enos teaches and taking care of the arena till all the lessons are done. Lunch is normally at 1pm, but that is also dependent on what is happening at that particular moment. We take care of our horses’ needs, from grooming, plaiting and turning the horses out for shows to farrier needs. Uncle Enos has equipped us with all these skills and he supervises us to make sure we are doing the right thing always. The horses are allowed to graze in the afternoon, all we have to do, is make sure they are watered all the time. Those that sleep in the stables are taken in at 4:30pm, 5 of them of which 2 are foals. Dinner is then given to the horses and we go home after that.

How long have you worked with horses? I have been with Enos since 2008. I was one of the school’ first students How did you join the Soweto Riding Centre? One day, while I was playing as a young boy in Dobsonville, a guy drove past me in a horse drawn carriage and I was completely entranced. After noticing that he went past at a certain time daily, I took to waiting for him just to catch a glimpse of the horses. I made friends with the guy and one day he allowed me to ride in his carriage and then he couldn’t get rid of me thereafter, I would just sit there and gaze at his horses in wonder imagining the most fascinating adventures. These rides became the highlight of my daily life so much that my mother got really worried about this, so she asked around and heard about Enos Mafokate who was then teaching from the SPCA. Thus began my love affair with horses and my life. Tell me about a typical day in your life? All our days are different, nothing much typical about them. Everything is dependent on the day’s needs and what is at the top of the priority list for that particular day. I wake up around 5 am, do some exercises for about an hour and take a bath. At about 6am I walk to work, takes about 45mins and when I get to the school, I check on the horses, refresh their water as well as give them breakfast. Some of the horses sleep in the stables and the rest outside, part of the morning routine involves making sure that all the horses are out. We have 20 horses in total at the moment but that number can change anytime if uncle Enos rescues some horses. Feeding and checking the horses normally takes us to our tea time

When do you ride? Anytime, I am always on standby to get on a horse when the need arises, especially if a horse is being difficult and needs to be warmed up more. Do you do any lunging? Yes, there is no set time, like I said a lot of what we do depends on the day’s itinerary. If there is a show coming up then it is mostly in the mornings before practice.

A GROOMS INSIGHT What food do you feed the horses? Mostly the grass that grows around the school. We have farmers that donate mealie leaves and that goes together with the food that uncle Enos buys. Talk to me about your accident. It was in a jumping lesson, my horse tripped on a pole, slid, I came off and when it tried to get up it slid again and came down on my leg which broke. I was taken to Baragwaneth hospital and was in a cast for 6 weeks. Afterwards I came back and started the slow process of getting back into horse riding which was slowed down by school, I only came back to work and ride full time last year. When was your first competition? 2011, I went to a training show in Kyalami, jumping 90cm. I did not expect to win but I got a trophy, happiest day of my life. Mostly I competed in vaulting, my best memory is when we won the World Cup qualifiers in Gauteng and went on to compete in Durban in 2008. We stayed in an army barracks hostel, which was so cool. We won again in Durban. Just before the accident, I was in grade C. What other skills do you have? Basically grooming, lunging, plaiting and turning horses out for show as well as hoof trimming. When it comes to riding I can do both jumping and vaulting. How would you improve things in the Centre? We need more qualified riders, who are really passionate about the sport and horses, riders who will go to shows and grow the name of Soweto Riding Centre. Uncle Enos is an inspiration to all of us, he has given us a legacy that needs to be carried on. And your life….? One day I would like to be able to purchase a plot that can be turned into a jumping yard eventually and have it registered like other big yards. A proper show venue on the map of South Africa.

horse riders? Everything in life is a risk. Falling off a horse is not a good enough reason to give up on something that you love. I came back because the whole time that I was away I felt incomplete. I missed the horses and even though I knew that they were in good hands, I worried about them. Would you love to own your own horse? More than one horse, a string of Thoroughbreds and Warmbloods for my yard that is going to be on the map of South Africa (hahahaha, walked into that one didn’t I ?) What do you love most about working in the centre? Witnessing the change that happens daily. I love helping in the rehabilitation of horses. When some of the horses come here, they are traumatized and wild, some have never proper human interaction. When they get here, we take it very slowly with them, being extra careful around them but always showing reassuring them that we want to help them. Patience is the key. I love this place, it is like a second home to me and a lot of the youngsters that come here. Uncle Enos teaches us to respect ourselves so that we can in turn respect each other. He shows us a lot of respect and other than teaching us to work with horses, he is always ready to listen to us. No funny habits are allowed in the yard, if you have any, you are supposed to leave them outside the gates of the centre. Immediate plans going forward…..? I would like to join Lippies program for the underprivileged next year. I believe that I have so much to learn if I am to become a successful work rider. In the meantime, I am going to concentrate on teaching young aspiring riders, learning as much as I can and patiently waiting for the opportunity to arise.

What advice would you give other aspiring grooms /

THE SMART CHOICE

SMART BIOTIN HOOF SUPPLEMENT A well balanced hoof supplement that assists in the growth and maintenance of healthy, strong hooves

SMART EQUINE HOOF OIL This rich hoof oil contains soyabean and grapeseed oil to provide and retain moisture in the hooves.

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SMART EQUINE HOOF DRESSING Nourishes and preserves the natural moisture balance of hooves and maintains the suppleness of the coronet, frog, sole and heel.

ENDURANCE

Eastern Cape Charm... Lormar Endurance

By Leandri Joubert Photography Courtesy: White Lens Photography

This month my aim was to stretch my very Cape Townian wings and bring you some insights from an endurance ride outside of the Western Cape. My options were wide open with a multitude of rides braving the last of summer and riders getting in some last minute miles before the feature races. Â My attention however was caught by some striking images on social media from the Lormar endurance ride. I have heard of this ride before, but to be completely honest I had to draw the map closer, and you will find this stud nestled somewhere between nowhere and someplace else in the Eastern Cape. I decided to call the number on the Facebook page and on the other line was Oom Piet van der Merwe. To say that it was one of the most inspiring conversations I have had in a long time, is an understatement.

by a trail run and mountain bike stage race, both of which have gained significant traction with their respective sporting communities. Â Â Needless to say the conversation ended with an invitation, one that includes accommodation, a horse and a promise of my best endurance ride ever - I guess I will just have to see for myself! As for the ride that took place in March, Oom Piet reports with a smile, that is noticeable even over a phone, that it was once again simply a wonderful weekend of camaraderie, zero politics and the love of riding horses.

Oom Piet and his wife may be farmers 40kms away from civilization, but they have their finger firmly on the pulse. Oom Piet speaks passionately about the sport of endurance, about the track that he has carefully perfected to what he believe is the toughest ride in South Africa, and his determination to grow the sport and offer the best facilities for participants, both human and equine.

The ride had 124 participants coming from across the country, Limpopo, Worcester, East London, Calvinia, Bloemfontein, Jeffreys Bay and Pretoria. These riders travelled with one goal in mind: to say that they have completed the infamous Lormar track.

October will be a busy month for the farm, hosting not only their prestigious endurance horse race attracting an international field, but it is preceded

ENDURANCE

The photos featured here is a selection kindly provided by Gordon Date from White Lens Photography, a professional sport photography outfit providing a host of professional photographic and multimedia services.

The ride had the usual distances of 40, 80 and 120km, but it also included the grueling FEI 3 star160km. Nicola Coetzee from Bethlehem won the120 km on her horse Lormar Rumble. Michael Vaaltuin riding Meyer Le Roux’s horse, Chapmar Victor took the 160 km honors. He also received the coveted Best Condition prize, which is awarded based on a variety of criteria, but the underlying premise judging the condition the horse is in post race.

The Lormar team really wanted me to allow them to thank all officials for ensuring they had a smooth and hassle free event. These include all the vets, timekeeper; ride masters and FEI officials, some traveling from Namibia and Portugal.

October is one to diarize if you are a horse rider, mountain biker or trail runner: First MTB tour: 29 September 2017 - 1 October 2017 Second MTB tour: 3 - 5 October 2017 Trail Run: 7 - 8 October 2017 3 star FEI and ERASA endurance ride: 20 & 21 October 2017

WINE REVIEW

At Excelsior it just comes Naturally....

The name Excelsior is derived from the Latin ‘excelsus’ which means ‘high, eminent, illustrious’. It simply means more of this i.e. higher or better. Excelsior keeps true to its name by subscribing to the higher purpose of not only making palatable wines but making better, higher quality wine. Achieving consistency in quality is not only important, it is our everyday obsession. The Legacy With the collapse of the ostrich feather industry, Kowie and his son Oscar again resorted to breeding horses. It was no surprise that the lime rich Karoo soil of Excelsior was able to provide the nutrients for strong boned race horses. Thus for many years Excelsior was synonymous with the breeding of thorough-bred horses, of which there where many race winners such as the famous

Gondolier, Hussein and Country Cousin. As the racing industry declined, the focus shifted to the vineyard.Despite all the other ventures,wine has always been made on the Estate.

Freddie and his son, Peter de Wet, who currently own Excelsior, are the fourth and fifth generation of De Wets to farm the land of their ancestors. Excelsior’s rich history and tradition of winemaking has been carried over from generation to generation and it is through their magnificent wines that the De Wet’s family legacy lives on.

WINE REVIEW

Excelsior’s long standing philosophy is that great wines are made in the vineyards and perfected in the cellar. It all starts in the vineyards, and the wine maker can only succeed with the best ingredients to work with.

Evanthius Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 This Cabernet Sauvignon pays homage to Evanthius, a Hackney horse that was imported by Excelsior in 1913. This Hackney sire was a champion in Britain and America, winning first prize four times at the London Hackney show and in New York, in the days when the Hackney was the king of the world. He went on to win many titles in South Africa, including that of Rosebank’s Champion Stallion. This Cabernet comes from the oldest vines on the farm. They were planted in 1988 in the best calcareous soils. This vineyard is farmed like a bush vine with no trellising wires and no tucking in of shoots. This ensures lots of sun. Excelsior Gondolier Merlot 2013 This Merlot pays homage to Gondolier, one of the most renowned thoroughbred racehorses bred at Excelsior. Six months after receiving extensive physiotherapy on an injury to his hind leg that had left him completely lame, Gondolier won the 1985 Durban July, South Africa’s most prestigious horse race. Today Gondolier is regarded as one of the legends of South African horse racing. This Merlot comes from vines planted on calcarous soils and represents the best Merlot produced on Excelsior. The vines are 10 years old and fully mature, thus providing us with grapes of concentration and complexity

Excelsior San Louis Shiraz 2012 In 1979 San Louis fell ill, stopped eating and grew tremendously weak. His grave was dug, but as he was being let to it, the decision was made to try and treat him for a little longer. Seven months later he had recovered completely. On 7 February 1981 San Louis won the 1600m Guineas horse race, one of South Africa’s most prestigious races. This vineyard is situated on deep, calcareous soils that allow deep root penetration. This enables the vineyard to withstand heat and drought exposure to enable ripening. www.excelsior.co.za

BREEDERS

Breeders

BREEDERS

Cavalli Saddlebred Stud

By Lauren Smith and Koekie de Villiers

Saddlers are often seen as ballerinas and prima donnas and with their showy nature are often thought to be too hot to handle and not suitable for other disciplines beyond being showhorses. Nothing can be more from the truth as they are indeed particularly hardy, smart, fun, very willing and flexible horses. Unmistakably beautiful horses with function to match their lovely temperaments, not to mention highly intelligent makes them all rounders.

necks they collect effortlessly as it comes quite naturally for them. As for jumpers, saddlers love the challenge and they fold beautifully, using their necks and shoulders well over the fences . Many trained show horses has been used in this division with success as testament to their versatility.

From a trainers perspective, they are in fact particularly easy to school in whichever discipline the owner prefers. They are exceptional in dressage because of their beauty and ability to be on the bit, forward - movement and engagement from behind. Because of their long and well placed

If you haven‘t experienced a ride upon a saddler you would be astonished by the level of comfort possible when riding this breed. They are super family horses and wonderful for pleasure riding and trail riding.

BREEDERS Cavalli’s breeding stallion Wine,Women and Song, imported from Kentucky in 2011, was recently awarded top 50 Overall Sire in the World for 2016. His SA progeny are currently in training with the renowned Saddlehorse trainer Koekie De Villiers. According to Mrs De Villiers, “ My training philosophy is rooted in a belief that the slower you go with the young horses the faster you can achieve real results. Because saddlers tend to be very forward going I like to firstly build confidence, building upon strength and musculature without expecting from a horse something that they physically incapable of. “I believe in a strong core as that enables a horse to drive from behind ensuring collected movement. “ “I start the youngsters by lungeing them first whereafter we move to long - lining and teaching them obedience in the lines . I also do a lot of pole work as it teaches them to concentrate. I believe a good departure point is a composed flat foot walk, which influences mouthing as well as all the other gaits. I don’t believe in showing horses too young and also like to rather work with them with what they are offering me daily and always requesting a little more when you know they are capable of it“ To me one of the most important things to teach a horse is to “ carry their own heads“, that way they are light in the bridle and athletic. It sounds easier than it really is, but once successfully accomplished , is quite a thrill to experience.“

Cavalli’s world class equestrian facility is open for public tours on Saturdays at 11am, with carriage rides and tailored equestrian experiences offered.

Photography: Couresty Dreamboxsa

GAITED TRAVELLER

Bhangazi Horse Safaris

By Freya Adamczyk Photography: Couresty Isabella Stepski

Get Closer to Nature on Horseback Bhangazi Horse Safaris is based in St Lucia Estuary, KwaZulu-Natal. We are lucky to be surrounded by one of the most beautiful and diverse nature reserves in South Africa, the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. To the east we have the Indian Ocean with unspoilt beaches bordering by tall forested dunes as far as the eye can see. To the west we have the savannah of the Eastern Shores and the St Lucia Estuary with its high density of hippos and crocs. Because we have all these diverse habitats so close together it is a unique place both in natural beauty and biodiversity.

see the nest at the backshore. She actually made 2 nests, one real nest and the other one a fake nest where she just swept sand as if it were a nest. The fake nest is a way to distract potential predators. If you come ride with us between July and November you could see humpback whales breaching out of the ocean from the vantage point of our horsesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; backs. Humpback whales migrate past our coastline during theses months to get to the warm waters of Mozambique in order to mate and give birth to their calves. After this they migrate down south again on their way to Antartica where their feeding grounds are situated. When they want to get rid of parasites, or when they want to communicate with each other they jump, clearing two-thirds of their body out of the water, falling back with a huge splash and this is called breaching. When weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re lucky we might find a humpback breaching close to shore.

what can you expect if you come on a ride at Bhangazi. If you opt for the beach option we have some of the most unspoilt beaches of South Africa for you to ride on. Imagine riding next to the turquoise water with only sand and green dunes as far as the eye can see. Depending on the season there are number of exciting potential encounters we have at the beach For example this October one day we just entered the beach to find what looked like tractor tyres going up the beach. We investigated a bit further as this is not a launch site for boats, so it would have been something else. Upon closer inspection we could see that this was the work of a female turtle, a leatherback turtle to be precise! During the months November to march two species of turtles come out at night or early mornings to lay eggs on these beaches: the leatherback and the loggerhead. The leatherback turtle is the largest species of turtle in the world and named after its though, leathery skin that covers its back instead of scutes. When following the tracks we could

GAITED TRAVELLER

During the rest of the year we have to make do with occasional sightings of dolphins and sharks in the surf-zone and sightings of hippos and crocodiles at the mouth of the St Lucia Estuary. St Lucia Estuary is home to about 1500 crocodiles and about 800 hippos. Although potentially dangerous animals, from horseback the hippos and crocodiles are a lot more relaxed than if you would be on foot. We treat these big animals with great resepect and do keep a safe distance. We can approach the basking crocodiles quite close, whereas we need to keep a greater distance with the hippos. Often we’re able to take pictures of our guests with the crocodiles in the background!

We also offer game rides in the Eastern Shores section of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. South Africans spend quiet some time in game reserves in general and therefore usually opt for the beach rides. However, if they do opt for the game ride they are often surprised by how different the experience is compared to game viewing from a car. Because you are on the back of a horse you feel a lot more connected to and part of nature. You will notice that the animals that you view are a lot more relaxed than they would have been if you were viewing them on foot of from a car. Especially when they see the horses grazing they realise that the horses are herbivores and therefore they have nothing to fear from them. On the rides we can get very close to the zebra, wildebeests, warthogs, impalas and various other antelopes. There are also hyenas and leopards that frequent the area as can be seen by the foot tracks. You have to be very lucky to see them on the rides though. A month ago clients of ours hit the jackpot when were on a game ride and the guided decided to stop to look at some wildebeests when he noticed that 50 m further a leopard was busy stalking a warthog. The horses luckily stayed very calm. Needless to say the guests were over the moon to have such a special sighting from horseback. We also have some other very exciting sightings. African rock

We never had any serious incidents, however sometimes the hippos can be a bit cheeky, especially the young individuals. One day I was on a ride and I was riding a relatively green, inexperienced horse and this young hippo thought it was funny to mock charge us and run towards us in the water. My horse got a freight and manage to jump over a bush and run 50 m down the beach in just 2 seconds. Luckily I regained control quickly. When I looked back worriedly to see what happened to the rest of the group I was very impressed to see all the other horses were standing there as if nothing had happened. They hadn’t even moved a meter, that’s how bombproof they are. Then for the more experienced riders the most alluring thing about the beach ride is going for a good canter. Sometimes guests are afraid that because we also have many beginners join that we only do slow rides, but that’s certainly not the case. We always have two guides on the ride so that in case of mixed abilities we can split up the group and the more experienced riders can go for a good canter on the beach. We also ask the weight and level of experience before the guests arrive so that we can match you with the most suitable horse. We have a couple more forward going horses for our experienced riders and also some very safe beginner horses.

GAITED TRAVELLER pythons make use of abandoned warthog or aardvark burrows to lay and incubate their eggs. In beween the incubating they come out to warm up in the sun and that’s when we spot them. Over the years we’ve had regular sightings of pythons. On some occasions we have even encountered mating pythons, or a mother python with its young. The African rock pythons are impressive creatures and can grow up to 4 meters (in rare cases even 6 meters). Because the pythons are not venomous but rather strangle they prey they are no threat to us and the horses.

When you’re planning to ride with us St Lucia town will be the best place to stay, only 10 mins drive from our stables. Because St Lucia has a lot of activities to offer it is recommended that you stay for a few days, rather then just one. However, you can also come up for the day. If you’re undecided where to stay, we can highly recommend the luxury lodge Serene Estate. The design of this lodge is a mixture of modern minimalistic architecture and New Formes with the characteristic bent lines. They have tried to achieve an optimal synthesis between architecture and natural landscape. For the warmth of African ambience they have used bright colours as theme and lighting effects throughout the lodge. Each room has its own color theme. Suites (Parkside) are bright, large (±50m2) and have big windows with a wide (pivot) door to your private garden or balcony. From the deck and the garden there is a beautiful view over the iSimangaliso Wetlands park. Each suite has a comfortable sitting area and is fitted with air-conditioning (heating & cooling), ceiling fan, mini bar, big flat screen satellite DSTV with about 36 channels, safe, king size bed with Auping mattresses, free wireless internet, hair dryer, coffee and tea facilities.

Rhinos and buffalos can also be spotted from horseback whilst overlooking another section of the park. If people have special interest we can tailor make horse rides that will suit their needs: for example we have done specialist birding and photographic horse rides. Then also we do get regular requests of guests who want to propose on the ride, because what could be more romantic then proposing to your girlfriend whilst riding on a unspoilt beach or from a beautiful viewpoint in the game reserve? We can arrange champagne or, even better, a private lunch with champagne in the game reserve!

For more Information: 1 Hour Beach Ride R380 1 Hour Game Ride R380 2 Hour Game or Beach Ride R 760 2,5 hour Beach and Bush Combo R950 Bookings: info@horsesafari.co.za or 083 792 7899

We have a wide variety of horses. Our horses are mostly boerperd crossbreeds, but we also have thoroughbreds, percheron crosses and arab crossbreeds. Boerperds are known for their hardiness and their nice temperament, which is neither slow nor too hot. We have horses that are suitable for complete beginners as well as more forward going horses so that experienced riders can have some fun.

HILLARY HOOFPICK

Hillary Hoofpick Horses are a dangerous drug

Let’s just face it, horses are not good for the bank account! It is getting more and more expensive to keep horses and most horse owners are making large sacrifices to keep their horses happy. warm up while she catches up with all of her friends who are also treating the show as a day out.

Why do we do it? It is not for the money, even if one is competing at a very high level and wins a big class, one is hardly going to break even when one looks at all the costs.

• R 300 for the photographer who has taken a very unflattering photo of you but you feel sorry for them as they are trying to earn a living, so you buy all the photos that they have taken and assure them that they are extremely talented and you would love them to do a photo shoot of you and your horse and that R 2000 is a real bargain for 10 still photos and a DVD of your horse resembling a camel and you looking like you are at least 10 kg heavier than normal.

Let’s look at the average cost of taking one horse to a LOCAL show: • Show entries for x3 classes – Roughly R 900 • R 175 EMERGENCY bottle of wine needed after trying to work out which club you should belong to, how to pay membership fees of chosen club and SAEF, trying to find your horses on the data base and being told that they have no points at all as you have somehow deleted your profile.

So basically one is looking at a very expensive and stressful day out (R 6275 ! ) but at least you have been placed in both your classes and the prize money was excellent….. a whole R 400 for your efforts, that should at least cover the bribe you had to offer your groom and the show bonus that he gets if you are placed in a class.

• Airtime top up of R 200 after spending hours on the phone to various people who keep telling you that the registration process is very user friendly and they cannot work out how you could have gone wrong.

So, why do we do it? Must be for the awesome farmers tan and somewhat dusty complexion that one is left with after a day out.

• Two extra lessons needed before the show because you are all of a sudden having huge doubts about your riding ability. R 800 • New numnah for your horse as his other one has a tiny mark on it and while you are at the shop you throw in a new pair of matching, sparkly ( actually VERY sparkly ) spur straps as well as a new pair of gloves etc. Leave the shop a much poorer R 2 000 • R 200 for your groom as he was supposed to have the day off but you simply cannot function without him, so you have bribed him with offers of extra money and a day off during the week. • R 300 spent on food/drinks at the show. • R 1000 on a full tank of diesel, after all your towing vehicle is a thirsty beast. • R 400 to your instructor to vaguely watch you

PORTRAIT

You will never look back… except at your competitors!

Looking for something new? Then look no further.

At EQUUS we combine the established and proven principles of natural feeding techniques with the latest research. Our product range includes, Train ‘n Leisure 13, Cool ‘n Perform 12, Cool ‘n Perform 15, Race ‘n Replace, Nice ‘n Easy, Safe ‘n Lite, All Time Balancer, and Lucerne Cubes. EQUUS- always covering your needs. RACE ‘N REPLACE

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RACE ‘N REPLACE

www.equusfeeds.co.za . Tel: + 27 87 820 4580 . Feeding Advice: + 27 73 423 5491