International Show Horse Magazine - Bloemfontein Edition - April 2019

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ADVERTISERS CONTENTS

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58 31 130 89 82 103 COVER 22 56 114 88 3 135 107 122 116 134 49 48 32 61 43 60 132 OBC 13 26 90 91 142 106 24 IFC 59 78

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About the Cover Saddleseat Equitation Enid Norton Amateur Spotlight - Madrie van Huyssteen Senior and Junior Protea Equitation Teams Western Province Championships Assisted Driving Class Division News Country Pleasure Class Division News Jannie & Margareth Steenkamp The Malans from Jakkalsdraai Parys Christmas Festival 2018 Tersia Malan Trainer Focus: Jacobus Charles Brown George Borchers Tribute To George Borcherds SANESA Bethlehem Saddlebred Chamionships

AfriDome All Aces Tack Shop Bartholomeus Klip Besterkraal Stud Botha Stalle Bridgewaters Horse Park Buck-Ridge Stables Bushveld Game Cature Charl Oosthuysen Stables CJ Du Plessis & Sons Crystal Anvil Stables De Bosch Deugas Looch Dries Moolman George Borcherds Stables Human Auto Jo-Jo Stables Juhantha Stalle Kamdeboo Stalle Mountainview Stables Noble Equestrian Stables Revelation Hill Rovic Stables Show Me Stables Steenberg Studcor Sun International Tabard Tears & Roses Stables Tomahawk Valentine Stables Valley Venture Stud Volvo Stucks Weideman Voere Wimco Stables

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THE TEAM Pieter Hugo Managing Director

Johan Blom Chief Executive Officer

Madge Bass USA Sales Manager

Marguerite le Roux Senior Designer

Deveau Zubrod Kreitzer Features/Profiles

Marie Chin Advertising Executive

Meghan von Ballmoos Features/Billing Director

Nick Schubert Junior Staff Writer

Gasnat Jaffer Office Manager

www.showhorse.co.za EDITORIALS: Johan Blom johan@silvermane.co.za (0027) 83 324 3709 Pieter Hugo pieter@showhorse.co.za (001) 502 321 8305 Meghan von Ballmoos meghan@showhorse.co.za (001) 860 605 5041 Deveau Zubrod Kreitzer DESIGN: Marguerite le Roux mleroux@silvermane.co.za ADVERTISING: Madge Bass bass.madge@gmail.com (001) 502 299 8523 Marie Chin marie@silvermane.co.za (0027) 82 497 4475 ORDERS & INVOICING: Gasnat Jaffer gasnat@showhorse.co.za 32b Whitlers Way, Hout Bay 7806, South Africa INTERNATIONAL DIALING CODES: SA (0027) AND USA (001)

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ABOUT THE COVER Dearest Piet and Sonet As I sit back and think about our journey together with the Incomparable Dreamer, All I can say is Thank You! Thank you for entrusting him to us at the Buck-Ridge team, Thank You for always believing in us no matter what the results were, Thank You for never saying no for every single thing I asked for. I know that no matter what the future holds your kindness and humbleness will be a feeling I will treasure forever.

All My Love Elizka xx

To Dreamer You have always been a source of joy and happiness to me and my family, ever since you were a youngster your presence and grace has always shined through, every class you made me proud to think I bred and raised you, you are a breeders dream come true, I am eternally grateful to every person that has had an input into the great horse he is today, a special thank you to Elizka and the Buck-Ridge team who has always treated him with the utmost care and respect.

SUPREME’S RARE DREAMER RARE SUPREME X BELL OF LA

Thank You Piet

OW N E D B Y - P I E T & S O N E T M O L L E R , C E R E S

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Madrie with Telly & Bold Flush

Hein, Stephan and Madrie

Madrie and Viva

By Roving Reporter

AM ATE UR SP O T LIGH T

MADRIE VAN HUYSSTEEN

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adrie’s love for horses came from her father, Dries Du Preez, who grew up around horses. Her first show was under the tutelage of Enid Norton in Cradock 1998.

Getting a third place ribbon was a life changing experience for this farm girl who didn’t know anything about fancy show horses.

She was hooked immediately.

she was elected for the Protea team. In 2005, she was the captain of the three-gaited team that competed in Missouri USA, and, in 2006, was elected in both the three- and fivegaited World Cup teams. Visiting William Woods University and, amongst others, Callaway Hills stood out in her memory as highlights of those trips to the US. In 2006, Madrie was named Amateur of the Year.

In 2001, Madrie started riding under Elizka & Dirk Claassens in Bloemfontein. The family drove to Bloemfontein once a month to practice while her dad gave her equitation lessons in between. In 2002, Madrie won the coveted three-gaited equitation title Champion of Champions with Bold Flush and in 2003 the five-gaited Champion of Champions with Telly Savallas, which made her the first rider to win both titles.

She shares her love for horses with her dad and her mother is a very avid supporter, neither have missed a show where Madrie has competed yet. The du Preez family have owned some high quality horses in their time such as the wellknown High Way Supreme and Reserve World’s Grand Champion Prince’s Domino. Madrie’s biggest regret is that Prince’s Domino and High-Way Supreme were sold and exported before she could really enjoy them and make a mark in the South African show rings.

From 2002 to 2006, Madrie received national honours when

In 2012 she started riding under the direction of Chantell

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Madrie with her mother

Madrie and her dad, Dries with Viva

Madrie and Hi-Time (vissie)

Stephan on Blue Fever Madrie and High Way Supreme

Madrie in her Protea jacket

Madrie and Chantell with Viva

Bosman with great success. With Hi-Time, Madrie won the ladies amateur three-gaited title twice at the National Championships. In 2016, the family bought Viva Tonite at the SA Championships, and a day later Chantell Bosman won the South African three-gaited grand championship with him. Her close friendship with Chantell made this moment even more special to share with her best friend and trainer.

Madrie went on to show Viva and in 2016 won the three gaited championship in Parys, which was the highlight of their career to date. Since Chantell moved to the US at the end of 2017,Viva is now under the direction of Victor Botha at Juhantha stables.

The Du Preez family visited the US and one of the highlights was to see Prince’s Domino show on the green shavings.

One of Madrie’s favorite horses is Ivanka shown by Jim Stachowski and she hopes to be able to see her in real life soon. Her favourite horse of all times is Brave Heart Warrior.

Madrie’s husband, Hein is a keen polo player and the family

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Madrie and her son Stephan with Viva

is at its happiest when either at a horse show or at a polo tournament. Their son, Stephan loves to get on a horse at every opportunity, so chances of seeing him competing in the upcoming years seems good.

One of the things Madrie would like to see change is to find an easier way to get horses into the US, as she thinks the best horses in South Africa will be very competitive on the US show circuit. Something concerning her is the amount of good young trainers who are leaving the country for the US in pursuit of a better future. However, she is very proud of the South African trainers that have made a name for themselves on US soil.

Her biggest dream is to show in Louisville one day. She thinks the professionalism of the trainers is exceptional and the turn-out and schooling of the horses of the highest quality.

Madrie will be competing in the Three-gaited Ladies Amateur class this year on Wednesday evening.

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SADDLESEAT EQUITATION ACCORDING TO ENID NORTON

S

addle Seat equitation is undoubtedly one of the most controversial topics within our beautiful industry. It is a discipline filled by variable norms and forms while being judged on imaginary shapes and lines. It is fueled by an inexplicable desire to achieve the almost impossible while virtually relying on the idea that your interpretation of sound horsemanship practices, a functional seat and the execution of precision and perfection are enough and correct.

In my opinion, it all boils down to: two people, three opinions (yours, mine and the correct one).

while exhibiting precise body poise.

The style has been uniquely adapted to suit both vertical and horizontal movement from the horse.The horizontal movement presents similarly in style to most equine disciplines with a similar cadence to an extended trot, while the vertical movement becomes very pronounced and extravagant in saddle seat styled riding. The horses have strong engagement from behind, prominently affecting the rider’s timing on the rise and their saddle depth in the canter, slow-gait and rack. It requires an upright, poised position from the rider to maintain balance at the centre of the horse’s movement, as well as allowing space for the horse’s high head carriage.

The information shared in this article is based solely on my interpretation and understanding of the Saddle Seat Equitation A flat cut-back saddle has been specifically designed to fit the discipline and is by no means part of the ‘rules of engagement’ saddle horse’s unique conformation, freeing the shoulder and for the game, but rather to be seen as a guideline on route to allowing the rider to place themselves in their horse’s centre. It is vital that the rider maintains balance to fully synchronise with the uniformity in our sport. horse’s high animated forward impulsion.

Trusting that my definition of equitation; riding your horse in the most balanced, effective form while practicing the art of invisible The equitation rider is required to perform on the rail and aids during the execution of precise manoeuvres in absolute execute various levels of tests individually. The optimum rider unison with your horse, will bring riders, trainers and judges into would engage the horse in a balanced frame at the correct closer proximity. impulsion while skillfully maintaining a neat, elegant yet versatile seat. Confidence, presence, poise and consistency are key elements. Horsemanship combined with showmanship separate SADDLE SEAT NORMS the winner from passengers.The equitation seat should always be Saddle Seat is the art of combining horse and rider in harmony, natural and in no way exaggerated.

BASIC SPORTS PSYCHOLOGY If riding is important to you, becoming a successful athlete is a priority. To become successful, optimize your athletic performance and increase your chances of achievement, you need to understand the psychology behind what drives you as well as the factors that contribute to your success. Some factors that will aid your mind set:

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• • • • • • • • • • • •

Maintain a positive attitude Nurture a high level of self-motivation Set a compelling vision with high achievable short-term and long-term goals Commit Deal effectively with people especially with difficult opponents & conflict Use positive self talk and regulate thoughts Use positive mental imagery Manage anxiety Manage emotions Maintain concentration Pursue excellence Persist through difficult tasks/times

‘WHEN TWO HEARTS BEAT AS ONE’ TRAINING AND RIDING ACCORDING TO THE HORSE COGNITION (BRAIN FUNCTION) AND ETHOLOGY (STUDIED BEHAVIOUR).

Equitation is not just about a pretty seat, it’s about total understanding of your horse, its bio-mechanics, natural response behaviour and its brain interpretation of your cues.

Equitation should be trained and ridden calmly and quietly. It is an almost silent language between horse and rider based on the use of minimally invasive pressures to cue your horse to respond to different instruction. Relentless pressure will dull a non-sensitive horse, while it will tense a sensitive horse. Always ensure that you aid in a manner that your horse does not revert to a flight response.

Cue, motivate cue and release (touch, clack, give or set him up and turn him loose)!!

It is key to maintain and execute consistent habits, let your cue be the same every time for each specific request. Horses are contextual learners (context specific) which is why our actions are often anticipated. There is only one correct response per signal which is of the utmost importance for a rider to understand that inconsistent cues become difficult for the horse to interpret and lead to major confusion. Do not ask for lots of things at the same time give each cue separately and independently, adding a cue onto the first should the manoeuvre require a combination

of cues. To prevent total confusion, a discernible gap should be held between each independent cue (1-2-3).

All cues, whether rein or seat must be unique and distinct. Ensure that both you and your horse can clearly distinguish between aids such as go faster or stride extension, turn or flex, collection or rein-back. Most human aids are not as clear as we, as riders, think. Our aids often become blurred by unconscious pressures such as when rein contact is used for balance in novice riders, compromising safety and desired performance.

Implement the shaping scale while teaching and riding equitation.

Perfection comes with the improvement of closely spaced, identical repetitions of simple responses that are graded on the Equitation Science grading scale. Each level of the scale needs to be in place before progressing to the next level. Horses do not generalise. What we may feel is familiar, or similar to is a totally different challenge for the horse to put into perspective.

Persevere to retrain target behaviour in different settings to achieve a proof level of performance from rider and horse.

SHAPING SCALE AS FOLLOWS: • • • • • •

Basic attempt (horse offers an attempt at the correct response) Obedience (horse offers immediate response to light aid) Rhythm (horse maintains rhythm and tempo) Straightness (horse maintains directional straightness) Contact (horse maintains connection) Harmony (horse is under stimuli control in any environment)

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RIDER FORM IN SUMMARY Feet The foot is the foundation of the seat, supporting the rider’s body. The foot should run a natural base wide angle along the horses rib spring. This natural slope outwards should not be exaggerated, but rather be determined by the horse’s barrel substance. The rider’s weight distribution centred on the ball of your foot. The toe should be directly behind vertical and pointed forward. Heels should always be lower than the toe. In the perfect world, the riders heel should rest directly below the seat bone.

Legs Your body weight should fall into your knee while the knee is pointed downwards and rests on the stirrup leather. The slope of your thigh should exit your hip at approximately 45 degrees with a slight inward rotation. The thigh and knee to be flat and snug against the saddle, while the calf is slightly angled outwards from the horses sides. All the joints in the leg should be supple and functional, presenting a controlled spring on the post and act as enhanced shock absorbers for the animated motion.

Hip The hips should be placed squarely in the centre of the saddle, preferably with a 2 inch clearance from the cantle. Your spine is best centred directly above the horse’s spine while you are openly seated on the seat bones.

Back/shoulders The upper back best presented as an extension straight out from the hip. Shoulder slightly rolled back and out from your belt, presented square and heavy in frame. The upper body should always maintain flexibility and appear graceful and never be braced.

Head The rider’s head determines body balance. The head should always face the direction you are moving in. The head weighing nearly 8kg will easily displace your balance if it is displaced.

Hand position At the halted position, the hands to be held above the horse’s withers at approximately the same level as the snaffle, holding the reins parallel to the ground proves to be the most efficient line of communication. Elbows should point down presenting a right-angle between the upper and forearms.

The hands should be spaced that the horse’s neck fit between them allowing reins to have contact on either side of the neck. Hand position should be versatile and dynamic with elastic/fluid and respectful mouth contact. Hand position is secondary to good communication with your horse.

At a heightened cadence, line the point of the horse’s mouth to the point of your shoulder. Your hands are to be placed in the centre of that line. There cannot be a hard and fast rule as the hand position varies depending on the shape and length of the horse’s neck and its carriage during movement and halts. The placement of the horse’s neck determines the correct elevation of the rider’s hands.

Side view There should be a straight line running perpendicular to the ground, from your ear, through your shoulder and hip/seat bone to your heel. This formation would encourage the balancing of your centre of gravity. The longer your saddle, the more difficult it becomes to achieve the side view line (in taller riders).

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GENERAL POSITION AT REQUIRED GAITS hip alignment should stay straight and remain synchronized.

The equestrian is required to maintain natural poise throughout all specified gaits. Riders are to be aware that the horse’s centre of gravity changes on different gaits.The good seat unites horse and rider.The best seat is shown by a rider that is seated in the depression of the saddle’s seat, cradled by the cantle.

Trot The rise in the trot should be quiet, low, controlled, flowing and crisp. The rise should be clear with a single seat between the alternating two-beat cadence. Posting should represent the diagonal required for the direction of movement, always set by the horses outside shoulder or inside hind. A trot exhibits a forward impulsion, your post should follow with a rise into a forward motion through the hip and a quiet landing in the seat, thus ensuring that you will stay synchronised with your horse’s forward impulsion and preventing you from losing timing or falling behind your horse’s centre. The rider’s shoulder and

The rider’s hands must always be independent from body movements while the post remains non-mechanical.

Canter The canter is a three-beat cadence and executes a round circular type motion. A rider’s hips should rotate with the stride while maintaining depth in the saddle and a quiet upper body frame. The rider should maintain collection and control on impulsion. The canter should always lead by the inside shoulder of the horse or by the outer hind strike.

Rack The slow gait and rack, both four-beat with lateral cadence, require depth in the saddle showing an even singular beat through the seat.The horses centre shifts slightly further back.

The rider’s seat bones should be deep yet relaxed. Riders should refrain from twisting their hips from side to side or excessive bumping/jarring.

‘VICTORY IS HAVING DONE YOUR BEST. IF YOU’VE DONE YOUR BEST, YOU’VE WON’ - Bill Bowerman

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RIDER PROFICIENCY RAIL WORK Longitudinal impulsion is the foundation of a great equitation rider. Riders need to keep their horse ahead of their legs at the walk, trot, canter, slow gait & rack. Consistent and steady rein contact with the horse’s mouth will control tempo, maintain regular speed and rhythm at each gait. It is imperative that riders are able to regulate and differentiate the horse’s beat and cadence on each gait.

Reins should have steady contact and refrain from bouncing or exhibiting tautness or slackness.The rider’s seat and the correct use of seat is of utmost importance to balance the horse allowing optimal performance.

Riders should present a strong performance on the rail with controlled transitions, maintain good spacing and present a level of showmanship that entertains the judges every step of the way.

FULL RAIL WORK A full rail is ridden as a full class with multiple riders being judged against one another simultaneously.

Riders always enter the arena in an anti-clockwise direction and on the left rein. Horses should move up the rail in perfect balance and consistent rhythm. Immediately prior to the turn, riders should ask their horses for a slight inside bend using the combination of inside rein and inside leg placed on the girth.

This, in theory, will prevent the horse from falling into the turn.

The outside rein should be used as a supporting rein while the outside leg should shift just behind the girth to maintain the horse’s haunches curved and prevent them from stepping out of his bend.

Riders are instructed when to perform their gaits and when to turn around and reverse the routine in a clockwise direction/ right rein.

EFFECTIVE USE OF THE FULL ARENA & SHOWMANSHIP There are many ways to use the arena to reflect your horsemanship ability and showmanship. It is not advised to continually space or attract unnecessary attention to yourself. If increasing/decreasing pace is not an option, execute a calculated circle spacing at the top or bottom of the arena as to not interrupt the judges view of other riders on the straights or execute the use of the diamond exit out from your turns.

MINI RAIL WORK A mini rail is ridden individually.

Riders use their discretion on where to perform their gaits and

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where they choose to turn around and reverse the process, provided each direction ends before the entry/exit gait.

DIAGONALS Riders are encouraged to rise immediately on the outside/ correct diagonal, without anticipating the movement ahead of the horse. This movement synchronises with the forward impulsion of the horse’s outside shoulder or from the forward thrust of the horse’s inside hind leg.

CANTER

Before giving your horse the canter aid, make sure you have its attention. Keep the horse square, lightly placing rein pressure on the instruction hand to control the fore quarter, drop the inside hip from the required lead. Slide outside leg slightly back behind the girth and apply light pressure through the calf to engage the hind quarter. Once the horse has taken the correct stance, add inside leg calf pressure to encourage the horse to strike into the canter.While giving the horse the instruction, give it enough time to respond to your aid and shift its body weight without moving off the square position

TRANSITIONS

An up transition is the increase of impulsion from one gait into another, while a down transition is the decrease of impulsion from one gait to another. An up transition requires collection, balanced frame and a strike from behind. The rider is to apply leg pressure while maintaining collection to set the horse off at the correct frame encouraging lightness on the fore quarter.

The movement should be controlled with a gradual increase of impulsion. The down transition requires the rider to maintain the horses balance keeping the fore quarter free and behind the vertical. The rider should apply rein pressure and depth in the saddle, slowing the post from an impulsive trot to the collected frame, slowly decreasing pace and lowering post height until the timing is correct to apply deep saddle pressure into the walk. Transiting from the canter to the walk requires rein collection, decreased pace in a controlled frame, shortening the stride into a smaller motion until the horse can stride from the canter directly into the walk. Equestrians need to take into consideration that there will be a push from behind as a result of the forward momentum of the gait. The rider needs to control this momentum before the final down transition otherwise the horse will transcend with its weight on the fore quarter

HORSE’S FRAME The rider is to keep the horse in a compacted frame of collection at all times. All forward impulsion is initiated from a strike in the hind quarter. If your horse is above or below the vertical or evading the bit, any strike will be lacking in collection resulting in your horse falling into its gait or allowing the hind quarter to trail

RIDER PROFICIENCY CIRCLES The rider is required to bend the horse’s body laterally along a curvature line ensuring that the horse tracks his hind feet in exact accordance to the front feet. Executing a circle correctly, the horse carries its weight on the inside hind leg.

The rider needs to transfer their weight onto the inside seat bone following the direction of movement and have the outside shoulder moved slightly forward and into the circle.

The horse is guided by your steering rein, dropping your inside leg on the girth followed through by supporting your horses flexion to the inside on the indirect rein and supporting his outside hind quarter with the outside leg being just behind the horses centre. The rider needs to keep the horse bent on the curvature line through its entire frame and maintain the horses balance preventing a closed or open shoulder from the horse in the circle. The circle should present equal depth through all four of its quarters.

On changing rein, the rider needs to shorten the new inside rein, transfer weight and leg aids. Before changing direction, the horse must be straightened for three strides before executing the changing of rein. It is of utmost importance that your circles remain equal in circumference, stride length and pace.

SERPENTINES Executing the serpentine starts on a centre line and ends on the same centre line, using this line as your marker when changing rein. The execution from the rider is the same as the description for circle work. The serpentine requires consistent bending and flexion over equal distances over the arena while maintaining rhythm and balance. The loops are counted from centre line to centre line. Like the circle, it is of utmost importance that your half circles remain equal in circumference, stride length and pace.

PIVOTS These are executed either on the forehand or hind quarter.

Your decision to execute a specific pivot is based on your pivoting point. The fore quarter pivot should be when the inside fore foot is closest to the pivoting point while on the hind quarter pivot, the pivoting point should be closest to your inside hind foot.

The forehand turn needs the rider to apply slight inside rein pressure and a transfer of weight onto the inside seat bone.

The inside leg applies pressure slightly behind the girth, pushing the horse’s hind quarters step by step around the forehand.

The rider’s outside leg supports the horse behind the girth, applying pressure after each step to encourage a light pause.

The horse’s inside hind leg should cross over the front of the outside hind leg.

The hind quarter turn creates collection, the horse’s weight is

distributed on his hind quarter allowing the forehand to pivot.

The rider guides the horse with the inside hand, rider weight in the inside seat bone while the inside leg is positioned closed to the girth, encouraging a ‘forward movement.’ The inside leg together with the correct use of the outside leg encourage the horse in a four-beat rhythm to move its hind quarter forward towards its centre. The horse’s pivoting point is at the side of the inside hind leg.

STRAIGHT LINES To be performed from point A to point B in absolute straightness and free of curves. The horse needs to maintain a straight line through its spine and remain balanced. The rider should keep the horse between their hands and legs.The rider should look up and straight at the end point riding directly towards it to maintain straightness. The rider needs to cover ground and maintain pace throughout the segment.

DIAGONAL LINES Diagonal lines start with a change of rein requiring the rider to balance the horse while travelling with sufficient impulsion through the turn followed by a straight line to a specified point. The rider needs to ensure that the horse is immediately straightened and continues straight without deviation.

Maintaining correctness of the straight line is vital.

HALT A square halt is defined by pausing, the horse is to stand square with all four hooves on the ground, the horse’s weight equally distributed on each foot, maintaining a collected quiet frame.

Ride your horse into the halt with a maintained frame while the horse’s weight is securely centred. The rider is to maintain poise and apply depth in the saddle.

REIN BACK The back is a two-beat, diagonal movement. The horse is required to move straight backwards with the forelegs following the hind legs. To perform the rein-back, the rider applies guiding leg pressure through both legs with a slight resisting hand pressure preventing forward impulsion. The upper body remains upright. A slight body weight transfer is applied, easing off your weight from the seat bones and transferring the weight into your thighs.This allows the horse to softly round its back and free the hind quarter allowing engagement.The rider is to keep the horse between their legs and hands allowing the horse to execute the instruction on a straight line. When the rider requires the horse to stop moving backwards, the rider should re-transfer weight into the seat bone and apply a deep seat, the rider needs to add leg pressure and loosen rein contact. The horse should maintain its frame while the rider should avoid over-aiding resulting in the horse’s head moving from side to side or above/below vertical.

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NATURAL AND ARTIFICIAL RIDER AIDS AND THEIR EFFECT Aids are a form of communication between rider and horse. They are used on natural pressure points, acting as an extension of the rider’s body, communicating in a format that the horse understands.

Aids are to be performed with the least amount of pressure.

When the rider applies an aid, the communication should be subtle, a light transfer of information between horse and rider. A rider’s hands control the horses neck and head while a rider’s legs control the horse’s legs and barrel. The combination of leg, hand and use of body weight aids, instruct the horse to increase pace, decrease pace, move forward, move backwards, turn or halt. A voice aid may be added into instruction, providing it is calm, quiet and instructive. It is our

responsibility to understand aids and to use them clearly for the horse to understand.

Understanding that the horse does not think in human format and that they are predominantly animals of flight, the use of aids will only be interpreted by the horse if it understands your extended guidance. Aids should be used sparingly to ensure the horse remains responsive to instruction. Over use will eventually result in a desensitized horse and it will not deliver the desired effect. It is of utmost importance to understand that a horse responds to visual and physical stimuli, the stimulation needs to be gentle, consistent and correct in timing.

Aids are divided into two groups, namely, natural and artificial.

Natural aids are applied by your voice, body, hands, seat and legs. Artificial aids are those which are applied by the use of equipment such as spurs and whips.

N AT U R A L A I D S Voice Aids: Your voice is an important tool in training and showing your horse. The tone and length of time held for each word is better understood than actual words. Sounds like clacking encourage forward movement whilst the words “whoa” and “trot” would interpret the intention into an action. It is important to realize that voice instruction is for your horse to hear and understand, it is not necessary to shout the instruction, spoken in the correct low tones, a horse will hear you “whisper.”

Leg Aids: Leg aids are used to guide or drive a horse and are used in conjunction with the rider’s seat. A riders legs control the barrel and the horse’s leg work. The degree of leg pressure varies from slight pressure to intense, depending on your instruction. The rider’s right leg controls the horses hind right quarter while the left leg controls the horses left hind quarter. Driving leg pressure encourages a forward movement while guiding leg pressure insists on maintenance of the horses frame, collection or direction for lateral movement. A leg aid is applied pressure for a specific outcome in pace or direction, it is different to a cue instruction.

There are two lower leg positions for instruction, on the girth and behind the girth. Depending on your instruction, both legs may be used simultaneously or individually.

Hand Aids: Hand aids are a rein instruction connecting your hand to your horse’s mouth. Rein contact should always be encouraged to be light and flexible. Your hands need to be respectful of the horse’s mouth, bearing minimal tension through the rein. It is recommended that hand aids work in conjunction with your seat and leg aids. Hand aids are primarily used to instruct a horse to turn, halt, collect and balance themselves. Hand aids control the horse’s neck and head.

Rein aids include direct, indirect and neck reining. Your direct rein is when direct pressure is applied to the rein of your specified direction. Your indirect rein is a supporting rein, the opposite rein to the direct rein. It is used with slight inward contact towards the horse’s neck, supporting and maintaining the direct instruction. The neck rein is the application of rein pressure on the horse’s neck rather than direct bit pressure.

Rider’s Seat: The rider’s seat completes the circle of natural aids. It assists in the follow through of an instruction.

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ARTIFICIAL AIDS Whips: A whip is used to follow up on a command. It can be used on the horse’s shoulder or behind the rider’s leg. A black whip is generally used, while it is optional to use a white whip with formal attire during evening classes.

Whips are normally presented in the inside hand (hand closest to the judge). It should always be remembered that the whip is an aid and should be held where it will be most needed.

Spurs: Spurs are fitted to the rider’s heel. It gives a firm and precise leg instruction. It is recommended that spurs are only used by experienced riders as spurs used inappropriately can do detrimental damage to a horse’s sides. Riders under the age of 12 may not ride with spurs. Spurs may only be blunt and unrolled.

MATCHING HORSE AND RIDER When mounting a rider, it is important to select a suitable mount. An equitation horse should be able to be competitive in composure in the performance divisions and be of sound, quiet mind. It should appear energetic and be responsive to aids.

It should present a smooth cadenced trot and project ground covering ability. The horse should perform a rounded flowing smooth motion in the canter. It is generally preferred to select a well sprung rib which naturally allows the rider to be seated base wide. We place emphasis on the rider’s leg slope, from the hip to the knee in the seated position, this angle needs to match the horse’s shoulder slope to ensure that the riders length and posting height are a suitable match to the horses stride. The horse’s neck length and arch play a vital role under the selection criteria; the riders hand height is preferable at the same height as the horses snaffle while reins run parallel to the ground. The line from the elbow through to the wrist should always be maintained to allow for ideal communication through the horse’s mouth. Selection of a suitable mount rests on personal taste, preference and rider ability.

‘AT ITS FINEST, HORSES AND RIDERS ARE JOINED NOT BY TACK BUT BY TRUST’ - Anonymous

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THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW AS AN EQUESTRIAN •

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Timing is the basic part of rider control, knowing when to give a signal is as important as knowing how to give the signal. Example, to strike into a canter, the rider needs to alert the horse, align body weight and through timing know when to strike.

The rider should ‘think’ like a horse, guiding and planning around potential obstacles ensuring secure execution of manoeuvre.

The use of peripheral vision and feel are important elements to master The bite of the rein should always be on the off side of the horse (your right side when you are seated on him).

Correctness in diagonal and canter leads are not negotiable.

Monitor collection and hind quarter drive.

Showmanship (performance, consistency, style).

Execution of a pattern should be in comparison to perfect (as specified by the drawing on score sheet).

If a test specifies, use a diagonal of choice, two things need to be taken into consideration, your direction of movement and your closest rail.

In the execution of a circle, once the circumference has been determined, divide it into quarters to ensure equal striding/size.

Should you be asked to execute a figure of 8 or serpentine, the changing of rein is combined with only three straight steps, the rest being in line with the required curvature. It is vital to ensure that the horse’s shoulder does not run out/fall into circles and to never move back into previous manoeuvre’s parameters.

Horses have a generalized thought process and reaction to circumstances. In most instances, different horses will all react in the same manner during testing segments due to the nature of their natural mindset. It is important to understand how a horse’s thought processing functions and to prepare accordingly.

Your preparation in striking off correctly ensures the accuracy in intended manoeuvre. If the horse is set up correctly and fully understanding of your instruction; it should execute instruction correctly time after time.

Expected intensity of rider’s calf and rein pressure should be light yet effective, if you think what a horse does when a fly sits on its skin, you will realize how sensitive their reactions are to touch sensation.

Horses tend to lean into pressure. The contact with a horse’s mouth is also affected by pressure, the more you take, the more the horse takes.

Different finger spreads in picking up reins, will have different effects, ensure that you select either a one or a two-finger rein spread depending on the size of your hands, the quietness of your hands and the level your horse responds to. The further apart the spread, the bigger the reaction.

Select a saddle with 3 to 4 billet straps to help place rider’s leg around the horse’s barrel.

Set your girth on first and third strap, first strap buckled higher than the second to create a ‘V’ for the rider’s knee.

Select a saddle with a sliding bar or at least two stirrup bars to aid with rider placement in the saddle.

BASED ON A COLLECTION OF OPINIONS, PERSONAL FINDINGS & EXPERIENCES, DRAFTS DRAWN UP FOR MOUNTAIN VIEW STABLES AND RESEARCH DRAWN FROM THE INTERNET, BOOKS AND MANUALS COMPILED BY MARILYN FIELDS, GAYLE LAMPE, LILIAN SHIVELY AND CECILY NORDEN

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SENIOR PROTEA TEAM ANJE DERCKSEN Age: 17.

School: Bloemhof Girls’ High School.

What are your goals for the year? To have a successful week at Nationals and win gold with my team in the Invitational competition in USA in July. Also, to grow as a rider and improve on the things I struggle with.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? My current five-gaited performance horse, That’s My Way, is 20 years old, but always gives his best. He has so much fire in him, and few things compare when he sits down and performs a SUPER rack!

A mare I previously showed, Final Star, is also a ride I always loved. She was a fiery challenge in the show ring and you could never be too relaxed and comfortable when riding her. She tested all your skills and I learned a lot of horsemanship skills from riding her.

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? WCC CH Honey Badger – watching him give his all in the Ladies Five-Gaited Amateur class at Louisville 2018 is a memory I’ll never forget.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? Doing sports, studying or spending time with animals and friends.

Most people don’t know this about me: I absolutely love tomatoes!!

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? Zandri Snyman. Zandri was not only an excellent equitation rider, but she is an outstanding horsewoman with a big love for her horses, and all animals. I admire her for her friendliness, kind heart, and how she enjoys every moment in the show ring.

Who is your equitation instructor? Adriaan Odendaal.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Hallo Pampoen!” and “Ag, jy’s ‘n ou huffel…”

CARLA KRUGELL Age: 18.

School: C&N Oranje Girls’ High School What are your goals for the year? To do the best we can in the competition in America.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? Buccaneers Delight, when I first saw Buccaneer I fell in love with him. He taught me to be patient, to listen and never give up on him. He brings out the best in me.

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? Supreme Rare Dreamer, because he has a lot of motion.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? Playing hockey and spending time with my family and friends.

Most people don’t know this about me: I have been riding horses from the age 5.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? Nicole Bester, because she was determined to reach her dream and never gave up.

Who is your equitation instructor? Elizka Jordaan Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Pretty Carla!”

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CARLA CONRADIE Age: 18.

School: Hoerskool Langenhoven, Riversdale.

What are your goals for the year? To help my Protea team to win the gold medal and to pass my matric exams with 7 A’s.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? Mud Guts and Glory, because he is truly an amazing horse and it was a thrill to ride a horse that is such a magnificent five-gaited performer.

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? Undulata’s Sathmo, he is truly a beautiful horse who I saw performing in America, and because he is black I love him even more, even though he is only a child’s pleasure horse, he is still one of the most beautiful horses I have ever seen perform.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? When I am not away at school I’m enjoying my life on our Karoo farm.

Most people don’t know this about me: I really like listening to very old music. And I’m very scared of frogs.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? Nicole Bester, because she is, according to me, one of the best equitation riders in South Africa, yet she is still a very humble person.

Who is your equitation instructor? Jacques Wiggens.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Roll your shoulders!!”

IANÉ FERREIRA Age: 16.

School: C&N Oranje Girls’ High School What are your goals for the year? For our team to win the competition in America and to improve my horse riding skills. Also to show in Louisville Kentucky.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? Colour Me Gold I’m Told, because he has a fire for showing in him and we understood each other perfectly.

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? Ultimate Joe, he performs with passion, style and proudness, he has a great rhythm and he is mindblowingly beautiful.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? I play netball, focus on my school work, and most probably planning to go to practise horseriding again.

Most people don’t know this about me: I actually only started horse riding because my sister did, not because I really wanted to. In hindsight it was actually a great choice.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? Lauren Osbourne. She has an outstanding seat, also she can ride any horse, of any discipline, and she will win anyway. She loves horses and makes everyone stop and stare.

Who is your equitation instructor? George Borcherds.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Praat met die perd, ek hoor jou nie praat nie” and “Jy sit soos n vraagteken” and “Bene, Iane bene. Net jou kuit moet druk”

ZANKI BOTHA

BRIGITTE LYN NEL

Age: 15.

School: Volkskool Graaff Reinet.

What are your goals for the year? To show my horses to the best of their abilities and to raise my game- though my greatest pleasure is to just show and enjoy them.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? Chestnut Champ.

We have been through a lot together. I won the u/8 class with him and made the senior team on him this year. He is my best partner in the show ring and always gives his best.

Which is your favourite horse you even seen performing and why? I’m McDreamy - the ultimate equitation horse - showing like a top class performance horse with riders like Hunter Chancellor, Courtney McGinnis and Macey Miles.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? I play hockey for my school’s first team, play tennis and do modern dancing. When I am home over weekends I am a stable/ farm girl.

Most people don’t know this about me: I like working with numbers and I also like cooking or rather experimenting in the kitchen.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why?

Willie de Jager - he is an excellent horseman. He rides the most difficult horses effortlessly... never losing his equitation style.

At our stables I have been sitting with the nanny watching my sister Delise practice... she has always been an idol to me.

Who is your equitation instructor? My mother Sumeri Botha and my grandpa, Danie Marais.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: My mother has quite a distinctive vocabulary..!!! But she always tells me to “show” my horse and if I should struggle on a horse not to show it.

My grandpa always tells me: “You’ve got this!!” He taught me and my sister: Good hands, think fast but, keep a slow heartbeat.

Age: 15.

School: Collegiate Girls High School.

What are your goals for the year? To do my best and always try harder.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? Valleys Raincloud - he is just amazing.

Which is your favourite horse you even seen performing and why? Black is beautiful- was one of the prettiest horses ive ever seen.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? Playing netball.

Most people don’t know this about me: I play the French horn.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? My dad - he is an amazing role model.

Who is your equitation instructor? Koekie de Villiers.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Focus focus focus.”

NADINE BESTER Age: 15.

School: Afrikaans Girls’ High School Pretoria.

What are your goals for the year? My goal is to improve myself as rider by working on my skills and weaknesses, but also building on my strengths.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? My favorite ride has definitely been Wilmar Wild Night. That horse has such a big heart and with every stride he gives you can feel his rhythmic beat beneath you. When he spooks, he starts to crawl and then the fun begins. His snorting gives you chills and he is just an amazing horse. It is just a thrill from when you get on until you ‘must’ get off.

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why?

My favourite horse that I’ve seen perform is Fox Grape’s The Tiger Lily. That mare has presence wherever she goes and although she is not the biggest horse that doesn’t stop her from riding her heart out on every step.When I’m not riding horses I’m...? I’m exercising, mostly in the gym.

Most people don’t know this about me: I am very ticklish, and my nicknames at the stables are: Goofy, Dean or Sticks!

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why?

Nicole Bester. She had the biggest impact on my equitation career and she is my role model. She is a true example of how to inspire/ motivate others to become the best rider/ person that they can possibly be. Her track record speaks for itself and I would one day want to be such an inspiration to upcoming riders.

Who is your equitation instructor? Enid Norton.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Strive for precision and perfection!!”

CHANIKA LABUSCHAGNE Age: 18.

School: Bothaville High School.

What are your goals for the year? To grow as a rider and horsewoman.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? Carpathia, because he knows when we go into a championship, and then he fires up like a sports car and performs his heart out. And we have such a special bond, which I have never had with a horse before.

Which is your favourite horse you even seen performing and why? Braveheart Warrior, he performed with so much heart. And he had the most stylish slow-gait. And could rack up a storm.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? I do sports and gym.

Most people don’t know this about me: I am always keen to have some fun.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why?

Victoria Walz, she rides with so much passion.

Who is your equitation instructor? Elra Tonkin Biering.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Remember to open your gate”

LIZERESE JANSE VAN RENSBURG Age: 15.

School: Afrikaans Girls’ High School Pretoria.

What are your goals for the year? To win gold at internationals with an amazing team and to make lots of memories in the USA. Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? Jackelberry. The ride was given to me as a surprise from Tannie Sanna Botha. I was the only child ever put on her and she won the champion three-gaited horse at a lot of our Regional shows. The mare is a home-bred and is a thrill to ride!

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? O’wars Duchess. The fact that she is a mare and does so well is amazing. The way she carries herself in the ring makes it hard to look away. She also won the champion Mare Harness class at Bloem show 7 years in an row!

This mare is amazing! She was exported to the USA in October 2018.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? When I’m not riding horses I play netball and have adventures with my friends and family.

Most people don’t know this about me: I have tripophobia and my eyes change color according to my mood.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? Nicola Burger. She got Senior team when she was only 12 years old. She is an amazing horsewoman and her tests were always perfect. She taught me a lot and constantly motivated me. She is now a trainer in America.Who is your equitation instructor? Enid Norton.

Tell us the one thing they say the most:“Take your inside hand and most importantly less is more!”

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JU N I O R P R O T E A T E A M MARICHEN PIEK Age: 18.

School: Hoer Volkskool.

What are your goals for the year?

To enjoy my Matric year and get accepted into University to study Psychology.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? My Dad’s horse, Mamma’s Choice. I was involved in his training from a young age and saw his progression. It was an honour to get the chance to ride this amazing horse who has so much to offer, when I took him over from my Dad. Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? Ultimate Joe. He gives me butterflies every time I watch him.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? Playing netball and probably busy with school work.

Most people don’t know this about me: I am really scared of ponies.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? Tammy Wilke, she was an amazing rider and always made it look so effortless.

Who is your equitation instructor? Sumeri Botha.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Haal asem!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”

MARION SCHNEBEL Age: 13.

School: Curro Hazeldean.

What are your goals for the ye.ar? I want to improve myself mentally and physically.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? Ventana Star Dance. We have a strong bond and she has done so much for me. I will never forget her she will always stay with me even if she’s not my horse anymore.

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? Ultimate Joe, he has so much energy, he rides with his heart and he give his all when he is in the show ring.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? I play netball and swim for the school.

Most people don’t know this about me: My nickname is Max for a very specific reason, I have dentist phobia.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? Nicole Bester. She has achieved so much and she is a perfect example to follow. I want to be that rider that everyone looks up to and I want to set an example for those who will follow.

Who is your equitation instructor? Enid Norton.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Pick her up and turn her loose.”

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CHRISTINE NAUDÉ Age: 14.

School: Bethlehem Voortrekker Hoërskool.

What are your goals for the year? I want to work really hard this year to make the Senior Protea World Cup team next year.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? Shrek, my Five-Gaited horse, he is the ultimate horse. He is a gogetter and always gives me his best and more. He is goodnatured and a true champion!

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? Ultimate Joe, he fills me with awe every time he enters the arena. He’s got a presence like no other horse!

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? Playing hockey and hanging out with my friends.

Most people don’t know this about me: I don’t like to watch animal movies, because it breaks my heart to see any kind of animal suffering.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? Victoria Waltz, she inspires me, because she has so much passion for the sport and she always seems to enjoy it.

Who is your equitation instructor? Glenda Koen Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Christine, slow yourself down.”

MIGNON SCHNEBEL Age: 15.

School: Curro Hazeldean High School.

What are your goals for the year? I want to improve in myself and ride to my full potential. I want to become the best rider I can be.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? Shooting Star, because he has the biggest heart and will give you everything he has for each ride and class even when he gets tired. His heart is just that big!

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? My favourite horse is probably Ultimate Joe. He is my favourite because he is not a very big horse, but he rides so big and confident that you think he is a big!

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? I like to play netball as well as swimming.

Most people don’t know this about me: I have Arachnaphobia and my favourite movie is “Minions” Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? The rider I look up to the most is Nicole Bester.

She won both Champs of Champs in one year and that is amazing to accomplish! And she sets a brilliant example.

Who is your equitation instructor? Enid Norton.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Bigger is Better”

JESSI WESSELS Age: 16.

School: Upington High School.

What are your goals for the year?

To be the best I can be and hopefully be in the Top 3 of The Champion of Champions competition for both 3 and 5 gaited.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? BRT Street Assignment. He is a one in a million horse and he honestly make me feel like we can do anything. He gives me so much confidence and he is the best partner in crime anybody can ask for. He has a heart of gold and puts everything he has out there. He helped me accomplish my wildest dreams and there will never be a horse that will take his place in my heart.

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? The Last Remembrance. He was my first Three-Gaited horse and had me in tears on more than one occasion.

When he started competing in the single harness division, he was an instant success and I am sure he will be a South African Champion soon.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? When I am not riding I am either on the netball court, in the swimming pool, playing tennis or having fun on the Orange river with my friends.

Most people don’t know this about me: I love to be at home, relaxing with my family, friends and my dogs.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? Marale Hoft. We attended the same school and she has shown me that it does not matter where you come from, you can still be the best if you work hard and do not take no for an answer. When she commits to something there is nothing that will hold her back and prevent her from reaching her goal. She has passion, determination and she absolutely loves what she is doing.Who is your equitation instructor? Martin L Pienaar.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Jessi – Make it Happen now or watermelons honey”

CHRISTIAAN THEUNISSEN Age: 16.

School: Oakdale Agricultural High School What are your goals for the year?

To live my dream which is to become a trainer one day.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why?

Oakalash Handsome Private. Because we grew up together and he gives me the greatest feeling when I get on his back to start riding.

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? Ultimate Joe... The perfect picture.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? I love to practice for Tug Of War in my spare time.

Most people don’t know this about me: I prefer performance riding above equitation.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? Liza Gerber, because she helped me a lot when I started riding equitation.

Who is your equitation instructor? Jacques Wiggens.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Attitude!!!”

MENIQUE OLIVIER Age: 17.

School: Parys High School.

What are your goals for the year?

To be part of the next world cup team and to have good performance classes.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? The one and only Big French, because he can do a perfect test and he can compete in a championship.

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? Ultimate Joe, the vibe of the crowd is an amazing experience.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? Studying really hard to try and become a vet.

Most people don’t know this about me: I love white Kit Kats and I enjoy hunting.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? Surprisingly my answer is Dejane Poil, she sits so correctly, with the use of significant aids to get the best performance out of her horses.

Who is your equitation instructor? Elra Tonkin-Biering.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Sit reg maar ‘ry’ nogsteeds jou perd”

MILA OLIVIER Age: 15 School: Bloemhof Girls’ High School What are your goals for the year? Being a good captain for my team at the 2019 Saddle Seat Competition that is held in USA. Winning two classes at the 2019 World’s Biggest Open Air Show that is held in Bloemfontein, SA. Being in the Top 10 Athletics at my school.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? My Three-Gated horse, Nite of All. He is high-headed and has a nice motion.

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? Definitely Braveheart Warrior, because he is a legend in the five-gated division.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? ...playing netball, action netball, athletics (javelin) and spending time with my friends and family.

Most people don’t know this about me: My favorite color is yellow.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? Zandri Snyman, she is one of the best equitation riders and has won a few championships in her life. The thing about Zandri is that she didn’t win and get in the Protea team without doing anything, she worked hard to become one of the best young riders in the history of South African Saddle Seat.

Who is your equitation instructor? Charl Oosthuysen Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Hakke af!”

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Margareth & Jannie with their two children, Nic-Mare and Gerrit

By Roving Reporter

JANNIE & MARGARETH STEENKAMP

T

he Karoo is primarily known as the part of South Africa where rain does not always come on time. It is also the birthplace of the American Saddlebred in South Africa. After the Second World War, wool became a very fashionable item and the farmers in the Karoo were producing some of the best wool available. The economy of the area boomed and big houses and fancy imported cars were seen on the dusty roads of the Karoo.

But the farmers were also stockmen. Due to the low rainfall in the area, the farmers owned large farms and horses were used on a daily basis to round up sheep and cattle. Saddlebreds were very popular because of their ability to provide a comfortable ride. Owning an American Saddlebred was seen as a status symbol and

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more and more horses were imported from the US. Every Karoo town had its own agricultural show and horses formed a big part of it. Horses were shown and trained by the farmers themselves and very few professional trainers existed at the time. Unfortunately, times have changed and significantly fewer of those horse shows exists these days and very few families still own and train their own horses.

One exception to the trend you can find on the farm, Tierfontein in the Carnarvon district of South Africa.

Jannie and Margareth Steenkamp are still doing it the old way, and are very successful in doing so. Despite the responsibilities of running the sheep farm, Jannie and his Margareth still make time every day to train their beloved Saddlebreds. Jannie first fell in love with Saddlebreds after finishing his compulsory at the time

Stanjum’s Pride Imp’s Bernadine

Cara Nome and Nic Human

Sparkle Spirit

Perfect Timing

LaBoheme

Wings’s CJ Sparkling OLee

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Mark O’Mera

George Town

Advocator’s Rita

Easter Street

Parader’s Madiba

two year military service. His first two horses were Royal America and Vanity’s World Wide.

Margareth’s love for the horses comes from her dad Nic Human, who has well-known and South African Champions like Imp’s Bernadine, Cara Nome, Stanjum’s Pride, Wings CJ and La Boheme. She started riding at the age of three and her first show horse was a boerperd with the name of Success Again.

She started her equitation career with the American trainer Mike Arnold and was undefeated for many years at their local horse show. Margareth went to Stellenbosch University after school and finished her Bachelor of Science degree while being a very active netball player.

She and Jannie got married in 1987 and the tradition continued as the pair kept on raking in the titles on the local Karoo show circuit. They also had a lot of

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success at the South African National Championships over the years. Parader’s Madiba and Margareth won amongst others, the Amateur Championship in 2011 under the direction of Kevin Eltrginham. Madiba died unexpectedly in 2014, which was a heartbreaking experience for the family. Fortunately, Margareth found another soulmate in the gaited horse Part of My Soul and the pair is now a formidable combination.

Over the years a lot of famous horses were shown from the Tierfontein family farm. Some of the most well know were Sparkle Spirit whom we all remember for his very correct slow-gait. Sparkling O’Lee, the sire of Sparkling Spirit we all remember as one of the most successful gaited studs in South Africa. Other names includes Perfect Timing, Super C, Glamour Time, Easter Street, Spartikus, El Camponero, Special Delivery, Private Benjamin, Blackberry, Atomic Nite, The Show Queen, Marc O’Mera, The Cats Butterfly,

Super C

Blackberry Baroque

Spartikus Part of my Soul

Sugar Sugar, George Town, Jack Daniels, Advocator’s Rita and Baroque, a horse Kevin gifted Margareth after losing her beloved Parader’s Madiba.

Jannie admired old trainers Pieter van der Meulen and Mike Arnold and has fond memories seeing them applying their craft and sharing their wisdom.

His all-time favorite gaited horses were Sparkling O’Lee and Scandal’s Last Tango.

Margareth reckons Warrior’s Braveheart, the multiple South African Grand Champion gaited horse is the best horse she’s ever seen perform.

Being a stock farmer, breeding is close to Jannie’s heart.

His favorite studs in South Africa at the moment are Stake Nite and French Legionair. He is also very excited about the Nutcracker blood that is available through the imported studs Quantum of Solace, Mr

President and Made in Heaven and believes those will enhance the quality of horses bred in South Africa.

Jannie admired Supreme O’Lee, Young America, Mr USA and Scandal’s Last Tango and the influence they had on the breed in South Africa.

The Steenkamps are a very close knit family and have two children, Gerrit, a chartered accountant and daughter Nic-Mare recently completed her masters in quantitative management at the University of Stellenbosch.

The horse business in South Africa is facing some challenges and the fact that a lot of young trainers or would-be trainers leave the South African shores for the US may just see more horse enthusiasts return to the old ways, the way the folk from Tierfontein have been doing it and shown us all that it can be done and enjoyed very successfully.

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Johan and Tersia on their wedding day

Johan and Tersia

By Roving Reporter

THE MALANS

FROM JAKKALSDRAAI

J

ohan and Tersia Malan are a familiar name in the South African Saddlehorse industry.

From the farm Jakkalsdraai, just outside of Vanderbijlpark, the family operates as amateur owners and trainers. They do everything themselves, including all aspects from shoeing to training and showing their prized horses. They are also involved in the management of the Regional Saddle horse shows of Northern Gauteng.

Johan’s love for Saddlebreds started with his dad Kokkie, who was one of the founding members of the well-known Magogong Show– he also was the announcer at this show for many years. Tersia, being a city girl, did not have any knowledge of or contact with horses until she met Johan. They met while studying at Free State University where she qualified as teacher

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and Johan completed his BAgric degree. Today, Johan is a retired Manufacturing Director in the food industry, and he runs a sheep and beef feedlot at Jakkalsdraai to keep himself busy. With his immense knowledge and experience, Johan also occupies himself with consulting services in the food industry.

The Malan’s first horse’s name was Lucky, but Lucky never made it to the show ring. The family bought their first ‘real’ show horses from the late Japie Jonker.

SJ Tozan and Gemson’s Kalamazoo were the first entries the Malan family had for their first Bloemfontein National Championships in 1992. Tersia started off by helping Johan, mostly playing the part of groom and never really getting the chance to show any horses herself. In 2006, Johan had an unfortunate accident and broke his hip in the collecting arena on the day prior to the national championships. That, combined

Don Eldorado - Champion Amateur and Reserve Grand Champion Single Harness Horse Bethlehem 2019 Ednas Stake Nite - Champion Ladies Fine Harness Horse Bloemfontein 2018

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Generals Parade - Grand Champion Fine Harness Pleasure Horse Parys 2013

Commander Tersia’s 1st time as Reserve Champion Natural Mane and Tail Bloemfontein 2009

Peter Pan - Champion Fine Harness Pleasure Horse 2007

with Johan’s work duties, forced Tersia to get more involved in the training aspects of their stable. Today, she does most of the training, with Johan acting as the ground man, supporting and helping with a critical eye and advice.

The day after Johan’s accident, the family’s two sons, DeVos and LeRoux, won both the South African Champion Fine Harness Pleasure horse title, as well as taking home the Reserve Championship. Both kids are now out of the house; DeVos is a chartered accountant and LeRoux is busy with his master’s degree in marketing, while working at NWU. When their schedules allow, they still participate and help at horse shows. DeVos is a very competent announcer in the show arena, and LeRoux can run the show office almost as well as his mom!

Although Malan Stables is a genuine amateur/owner trained establishment, they do pride themselves in having won quite a few blue ribbons at the National Saddle Horse Championships- the first blue was

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taken by DeVos with Nicoli Hi Cassanova, Champion Fine Harness Child’s Pleasure Horse in 2005 and again in 2006. In 2007, Johan took the Champion Fine Harness Pleasure Horse title with DS Peter Pan, while 2013 saw Johan winning blue in the Junior Single Harness class with Wayup Don Eldorado.

Tersia then won the Amateur Single Harness Grand Championship with Don Eldorado in both 2015 and 2016. Their favourite mare, Rothman Edna’s Stake Nite took the coveted blue in the Amateur Ladies Fine Harness Championship in 2018.

According to Tersia, Rothmann Edna’s Stake Nite is the best horse she’s ever owned and worked. This combination won the South African Amateur Ladies Fine Harness title in 2018. They will be competing in the Natural Mane and Tail division at this year’s nationals.Tersia loves working with the Hell-of-a-Nite and Stake Nite offspring, as they are very sensible and talented and love to work.

In 2013 the family got involved with Hackney Ponies

Bar Code - Champion Hackey Pony 4 Years and Under Parys 2018

Ednas Stake Nite - Misty Meadows 2016

and they are having a great time working and showing those. Under the stud name Silver Fox, the Malans also breed a few and are very excited about a stud colt, Silverfox Heart & Soul, by the imported sire Heartland Wild At Heart.

Johan sees their horses as the glue that keeps the family together. It is not just about winning the blue ribbon, it is about bringing the best out of every horse and showing every horse to its best potential.

Their love for the game is more important than the colour of the ribbon. Supporting one another and sharing this special love for horses and showing, is of ultimate value.

Tersia’s favourite horses of the past are Tango’s Wee Pee and Braveheart Warrior, while Johan’s favourite is the former South African Single Harness Champion, Bubble’s Delight, shown by Hendriline Hertzog.

Winning the South African Grand Champion Single Harness title is still on Johan’s bucket list – hopefully a dream soon to come true!

Royal Heights Wild Fire Parys 2018

Tersia believes that an amateur can compete with professional trainers. Her advice for other amateurs is never to doubt their own abilities, be willing to learn from others, and never stop asking for advice.

The family has high praise for the late Harold Poil, who was also a personal family friend - a man who always shared his knowledge and was always eager to help. Tersia would love to see the industry become more accessible for people with lesser financial means as well, as this fantastic breed should be open for everyone to enjoy! As it is becoming more and more difficult to keep young trainers in South Africa, she would also like to see more effort being made to identify and train young prospects – the only way to keep our industry alive.

In the meanwhile, Johan and Tersia enjoy working their beloved Saddle Horses and Hackney Ponies at Jakkalsdraai. The motto of Malan Stables “living and loving our dream” has been chosen for that specific reason!

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South African Show Circuit

Parys Chrismas Festival PHOTOS BY ELPITA PHOTOGRAPHY

The 2018 PARYS CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL, where South Africa’s top Saddle Horses, Hackney Ponies and Welsh Ponies came together to compete in style, once again did not disappoint our highest expectations. Hosted at the spectacular Afridome Indoor Venue, all stables were booked, paid and filled long before the closing date, confirming the popularity of this elite show. 306 Saddle Horses, 43 Hackney Ponies, 21 Welsh Ponies and 9 horses from other breeds were entered.

JP Hugo, Koekie de Villiers and Ian Maritz had the honour to judge at this prestigious show. Poy Coetzee and brother Spyker managed the arena, while Kosie Pansegrouw and DeVos Malan did the announcing, once again unequalled in their passion and style. Wessel Vermaas and Chris Wilke handled the collecting ring. The Parys Committee would like to convey its appreciation and gratitude to all officials who worked at the show, whose attitude and service were of the highest standard and contributed greatly to the success and standard of our show.

The Parys Christmas Festival Committee, under chairmanship of Dries Moolman, herewith expresses sincere gratitude and appreciation to every sponsor, be it the sponsor of a Grand Championship or the sponsor of a qualifying class.

The committee approached this year’s show rather hesitantly, given the dire economic situation, but the unwavering support of the show’s loyal sponsors once again enabled the organisation of a great show. The committee cannot thank its sponsors enough.

2018

BY TERSIA MALAN

Championships for 2018: Gulfstream Energy was the sponsor of the Grand Champion ThreeGaited Park Horse, Ukuqala (Dries Moolman) sponsored the Fine Harness Championship, with Umvuzo Health/IXU Sport doing the honours for the Single Hrness Championship. The Amateur Championships were sponsored by Junior Smith Trucking, Afridome, De Bosch Stables and Heymans Kole, with the three Pleasure Horse Championships taken care of by Dries Moolman Boerdery, Apple Dew Guest House and Boerefort.

Van Staden Qualygrow (Johan & Moleine) provided for the Five-Gaited Children’s Championship, Wilgekrans Game Reserve (Wim Bester) the Three-Gaited Children’s Championship, and Human Auto Ford (Jacques Strydom) sponsored the Three-Gaited Children’s Park Championship.

Both the Amateur- and Open Ladies Fine Harness Classes were sponsored by Moleine van Staden – Van Staden Qualygrow. Econo Steel sponsored the Welsh Pony Championship and Rovic Stables as always supported the very exciting Hackney Pony Championship. All these sponsorships are of great value for the show and definitely cannot make do without such outstanding support.

The Premier Sponsor for the last few years, also the sponsor of the five-gaited Grand Championship, is NOUWENS CARPETS, and by name, Luci Nouwens. The show committee shares your passion, dedication and love for Saddle Horses.

Luci, and thanks you for helping with such a generous contribution! Your support is very much valued and appreciated.

We thank and salute all the Sponsors of our Grand

Grand Champion Five-Gaited Pleasure Horse COLOUR ME GAMBIT & CHRISTENE NAUDE Sponsored by Boerefort 98

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Grand Champion Five-Gaited Horse STUDCOR ROCKY MOUNTAIN HIGH & ADRIAAN ODENDAAL Sponsored by Nouwens Carpets

Grand Champion Amateur Five-Gaited Horse WILMAR KING COBRA & CHRISTIEN STRYDOM Sponsored by Afridome THE INTERNATIONAL SHOW HORSE

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Parys Chrismas Festival PHOTOS BY ELPITA PHOTOGRAPHY

Grand Champion Amateur Fine Harness Horse VISSERSHOF WAR’S X FACTOR & LIESBETH KRETSCHMER Sponsored by Heymans Kole

2018

Grand Champion Single Harness CS UKUQALA & CECIL DU PLESSIS Sponsored by Umvuzo Health

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Grand Champion Amateur Park Horse BRIDGEWATER’S RISING TO GLORY & GARLAND POIL Sponsored by Junior Smith Trucking

Grand Champion Park Horse JUHANTHA FRENCH WARRIOR & ELRA TONKIN-BIERING Sponsored by Gulfstream Energy

Grand Champion Fine Harness Horse SHOW ME ULTIMATE JOE & CHARLIE BROWN Sponsored by Ukuqala

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South African Show Circuit

Parys Chrismas Festival PHOTOS BY ELPITA PHOTOGRAPHY

The show committee would like to convey sincere appreciation to all the sponsors of the qualifying classes! The willingness of the saddle horse friends and supporters to answer to the call every year, makes this great show possible! Saddle Horses are exceptional animals and those who own and love and support them are as well! Thank you very much from us all!

UMVUZO Health / IXU Sport once again sponsored the Grooms’ Soccer Tournament, now already an annual highlight for the players as well as their supporters. The prelims were hosted in the arena on Wednesday evening before start of show, with the final game in peak hour on Saturday.

The team from Rovic Stables was crowned well deserved victors this year, with the Western Cape Hackney Pony Team being the runners-up. Thank you to Heinrich Rix for sponsoring this event for the caretakers, who really do deserve a bit of fun and a lot of appreciation for all the effort they put in to make our horses ready for the show arena. A special braai for all the caretakers was sponsored

by JPMalan Boerdery.

The Sponsor- and Exhibitor’s Function, catered for

by Karen from Afridome Restaurants, was a lovely get-together held in the arena on Thursday evening after the first day’s classes. The NGSU Equitation Team to compete at the 2019 SSSA Protea trials, was introduced at this occasion and colours

2018

awarded. Much laughter and fun were derived from the “Derby@Dice” game, which offered a great cash prize of R10 000 for the winners. The victors were Graeme and Sonja, who selflessly returned the prize as a sponsor to our show. Thank you very much for this positive gesture.

Father Christmas visited in true VALTRAC style on Saturday morning and excited the children with small gifts for everyone. In-between classes, the kids also entertained spectators by partaking in “stick horse” races, which drew quite a lot of interest and resulted in much cheering. Hopefully the “gaits” will be more pure in next year’s races!

Once more the Lucky Draw Competition, where all horses’ show numbers are entered and excellent prizes are at stake, proved to be a hit amongst exhibitors, horse owners, and spectators, with extra tickets that could be bought for the draw.

First prize, a luxury break-away weekend for 2, was won by a Hackney Pony exhibitor, Shattie van Huyssteen.

The planned date for the 2019 Parys Christmas Festival is 5 - 7 December.

The Parys Xmas Festival Show Committee invites everyone to join us. Bring your friends, come visit us in Parys and enjoy this final festival show of the year with us!

Grand Champion Fine Harness Hackney Pony HEARTLAND VIBRANCE & SALIE DAVIDS Sponsored by Rovic Stables 102 THE INTERNATIONAL SHOW HORSE

Grand Champion Children’s Five-Gaited Horse BRIDGEWATER’S NITE SONG & MARCEL V STADEN Sponsored by Van Staden Qualygrow

Grand Champion Children’s Park Horse CAVALLI CARPATHIA & CHANIKA LABUSCHAGNE Sponsored by Human Auto Ford Grand Champion Amateur Three-Gaited Horse NOBLE WICKED NITE & DENIELLE DERCKSEN Sponsored by De Bosch Stalle

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South African Show Circuit

Parys Chrismas Festival PHOTOS BY ELPITA PHOTOGRAPHY

2018

Grand Champion Three-Gaited Horse JUHANTHA COURAGEOUS & ELIZKA JORDAAN

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MUCH APPRECIATION TO ALL OUR 2018 SPONSORS Afridome Apple Dew Guest House Arnold Naude Bethlehem Vurkkhysers Boerefort Cecil du Plessis Cerealis Charbella Charolais Cloverfield Wines Dale Brits De Bosch Stalle Diamond D Cattle Farms DMV Consultants Dream Acres Equestr Centre Dries Moolman Boerdery Du Plessis Familie Trust Econo Steel El Shaddai Stalle Enviro Stroper Kontrakteurs Equifeeds George Aldrich GF Olivier Boerdery Gulfstream Energy Heavy Duty Towing Heymans Kole Hoener Strydom Human Auto Ford Johnstone Familie JP Malan Boerdery Jabbies en Elra Lotz Junior Smith Trucking Junior Tonkin Jurijan Stalle Kosie Pansegrouw Ludwig Schnebel Noble Equestrian Stables Noord Gau Saalperd Unie Noord Kaap Saalperd Unie Nouwens Carpets IXU Sport Robvaal Boerdery Rovic Stalle Shaylee Familie Trust Show Me Stalle Truway Engineering Valentine Stalle Valtrac Van Staden Qualygrow Van Wyk Boerdery Vetsbrands Vreugde Stalle Ukuqala UMVUZO Health Viking Meubelvervoer Wilgekrans Game Reserve

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Yoko’s Whisper

Prost Kronenbrau

By Roving Reporter

T R A I N E R FOC U S

JACOBUS CHARLES BROWN

C

harlie was brought up on Pienaarskloof farm in the Touwsrivier district. His father always kept horses on the farm and his love for horses comes from his dad as well as his grandfather who trained horses for the governor of Cape town.

started working for him on the farm Katbos in the Graaff-Reinet district. During a snow storm, the roof of Harold’s barn collapsed in May 1977, so they moved the barn to the Graaff-Reinet show grounds. Charlie and Harold formed a strong bond and over time, and he has high praise for Harold and his knowledge and willingness to share it.

After finishing school in 1971, Charlie joined the army for his military training. In 1973, he started working at Rembrandt in Paarl and was transferred to Heidelberg in the old Transvaal province the following year. While there, he convinced a few friends to join him for the weekend and to go to the Pretoria show as he was missing the horses. There he ran into an old friend Gatsby Rautenbach and inquired about a possible job working with horses. Gatsby recommended Basie Wessels and it became Charlie’s first training job.

In August 1977, Charlie met his future wife, Renée Pienaar, the daughter of the famous announcer and horse enthusiast Koot Pienaar. The couple married in January the following year. The couple has three kids, Robert, JJ and Charnée, who all love being involved with Saddlebreds.

Meanwhile, Harold Poil came to South Africa from the US. Charlie

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Charlie’s first time showing a harness horse, Magie’s Surprise, was at the 1978 South African Championships for owner JP Hugo.

This was when his love for harness horses started. In May 197 he was nominated to become a professional horse trainer by Basie Wessels.This paved the way for him to open his own barn, and in

Show Me Ultimate Joe

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Barcelona

Time Well Spent

Killarney’s Broadstreet

Hi Smoke

1978 Charlie moved to the farm Fonteintjie owned by his fatherin-law, Koot Pienaar.

In 1981, he accepted a position to work for WillieVermaas and got the chance to work the famous Wing’s Flight, who won the South African Single Harness Championship for three consecutive years (1985-1987). It was during this time that Charlie trained Wessel Vermaas, Riana Pistoruis, Menette van der Westhuizen, and his own son Brown to many an equitation title. Famous horses he trained during this time includes Killarney’s Broadstreet, Show Stopper, Great Ideas, Gay Sensation, Prost Kronenbrau and Gay Carousel amongst others.

In 1989, the family moved to Hanover to accept a position to work for Albie van der Merwe. Mr America and Le Legionare were some of the champions trained for the van der Merwe family.

The Brown family has not only been successful in training horses.

Renée opened a shop in Hanover in 1994, while Charlie bought the Hanover show grounds and rebuilt the stables in order to open his training business there. He also bought the Caltex gas station, which he then later sold.

Selling the gas station allowed him to spend more time training

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War Prince

horses, his first love. In 2015, Gert Koch sent Emerald War Prince for training and just a couple of weeks later, Charlie won the Fine Harness Championship at the De Aar show.

A few months later, the pair won the South African Grand Championship fine harness title at the Bloemfontein Show.

In August 2016, an old time friend of Charlie’s, Gert Koch sent Ultimate Joe to him for training. Charlie believes Ultimate Joe is a freak of nature and is extremely humbled by the opportunity to be able to train and show such a horse.

Charlie holds the record for winning the gentlemen’s fine harness class at the National Championships for four years running. In 2015, it was War Prince; 2016’s winner was Time Well Spent; 2017 and 2018 was Ultimate Joe. Another highlight for Charlie was winning the three year old harness title with My French Rose owned by Ted Groenewald and the induction of her dam Nite of Roses as a BHF mare.

He is very thankful to each and every horse and horse owner that crossed his path over the years and the family is still enjoying training, showing and appreciating the most beautiful horse on earth, the American Saddlebred.

Show Me Ultimate Joe

War Prince

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By Roving Reporter

GEORGE BORCHERDS

I

n 1977, at the very young age of 8, George Borcherds was introduced to horse riding. After a month, he participated in a farmers day show in the town of Nieu Bethesda. From that day onward, when he held his first ribbon, he could not be stopped and participated in the Agricultural Horse Shows of the neighboring towns.

His uncle, Chris Borcherds gave him his first horse, a Boerperd named Philip as a gift and George was then well on his way showing with Philip.

Mr. Fransie van der Merwe, known as Oom Fransie, on the neighboring farm noticed the potential of George’s horsemanship and invited him to join his team of riders. Oom Fransie had Boerperd and Saddlebred horses and took young riders in to show his horses. He was very successful with his selection of horses and riders. He was well known and loved amongst the Boerperd and Saddlebred community. George learned a lot as a junior from Oom Fransie and was very competitive throughout his school career.

In 1986, he received his one thousandth prize for showing and riding Saddle Seat Equitation at horse shows all over South Africa.

In 1988, Nicky Keeve, George Borcherds, Irene van der Westhuizen and Gertrud Swanevelder were selected to represent South Africa for the inaugural International Team competition against the USA Team competing in the town of Graaff-Reinet in South Africa.

During that international competition, the USA Team coach Lillian Shively invited George for some further training. He told her that he would love to, but first had to do his military duties as required in those days, so he went to the Mounted Police in 1988.This experience had a big impact on his success coaching his riders later.

Then the unexpected happened, which changed his life forever.

Lillian Shively wrote a letter to the Police force and they sent George to Lillian (De Lovely Farms in the USA) in 1989. He came back to work as a policeman and he later became a detective until 1994.

During that period, he started giving horse riding lessons in his spare time and did a few shows with those riders, with much success. In 1994, he was approached by Mr. WJ van Bergen to come and do some full time horse training at his place, Wimco Stables in Douglas, where he was employed permanently

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coaching his kids Trude Mari, Jouke and Rossouw van Bergen in Saddleseat Equitation. They all received SA National Protea team colours. During that time, he also trained Karen Swanepoel, Chanene Rossouw, Patrick van Der Heever and many more who also received SA National Protea team colours.

In 1997, Whitney Singer from the USA won the National Morgan Horse Youth of the Year contest and a trip anywhere in the world for one month to represent the American Morgan Horse. She ended with George in Douglas, South Africa at Wimco Stables. George, Whitney and her mother Gayle Singer were the ambassadors for the competitions between the Morgan Horse and the Cape Boerperd and SA Boerperd teams in the years to follow. In 2000, the Cape Boerperd team against the Morgan Horse team in New England, Massachusetts, USA, won gold with George as the team coach. In 2012, the SA Boerperd team against the Morgan Horse team in Lexington, Kentucky, USA, won silver with George as the team coach. This opened up a lot of doors for many riders and gave them an experience of a lifetime!

SA Boerperd & Morgan competition

George & Shall O’lee Reserve Champion Fine Harness Bloemfontein

In 1995 and 1997, George was chosen as the SA National Coach for the international competition against Namibia, winning gold both times. In 1998, he was the SA National Team coach for the International World Cup competition in Paarl, South Africa, bringing back the 5-gaited gold and the 3-gaited silver medals. He was also the coach of 5-gaited SA National team that competed at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, Indiana USA in September 1998.

In 2002, Mr. Junior Smith approached him from Juhantha Stables in Wellington, to come and work there full time to do the same as he did with the van Bergen kids. He trained Hanlo and Tharine Smith, who also became members of the SA National Protea Team.

In 2004, George’s lifelong dream came true and he bought his very own farm and started with sheep, cattle and horses.

George Borcherds Stables is where he trained horses and riders like Lindsay Owen, Alex van Der Watt (the first ever rider to win both the three- and five-gaited Champion of Champions in one year), Claudia Liebenberg, Elana Deacon, Rykie Fourie, Heinrich Human and Wilmarie Human, Elizabeth van Der Bijl, Zilike de Jager and Iané Ferreira and many more, all to achieve the highest award named the SA National Protea Team.

For the last 10 years, he has focused more on breeding, mostly managing Newline Saddle bred stud’s breeding for Dr. Ross Millin. George in partnership with Dr. Ross has bred some extraordinary horses like the very first ASHF winner, Newline Perfect Style and Grace, and The Prototype, the SA Saddlebred National Champion, to name a few. In August of 2013, he attended an Equine Reproductive Ultrasound and Equine Embryo Transfer Clinic at Ramona, CA in USA. E George has indeed had a big impact on breeding all over

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George and Louw Borcherds George and Rouxle’

George and Iane Ferreira

George and Zilike de Jager George and Willana Wolfaartdt

SA working with many breeders like Mountain ViewStud, Studcor Stud and Marani Stud to name a few.

In 2010, George Borcherds and Dr. Ross Millin started the very successful “African Saddle Horse Futurity”, which is every breeders dream! The competition that pays the highest prize money of any Saddle Horse competition in South Africa. This year will be the 11th. ASF Stallion Auction with the best stallions in South Africa!

A few highlights in George Borcherds judging career: •

2011: SA National Hackney Pony Championship, Robertson SA.

•

2012: Saddle Seat World Cup International Competition, Parys SA.

•

2013: US Saddle Seat International Invitational, Fulton MO, US.

•

2014: US Morgan Grand National Horse Show, Oklahoma US.

•

2015: SA Saddle Horse National Championship Bloemfontein SA.

•

2016: Hackney Horse National Championship, Beaufort Wes, SA.

•

2016: SA National Hackney Pony Championship, Robertson SA.

•

2018: SA Boerperd National Championship, Parys SA.

George made a few international riders’ dreams come true over the years, like Samantha Mae, Acacia Chervier, Allie Williams, Breanna Chelsea van Rooyen and Catriona Kozijn all from Canada. Lauren Osborne from USA, Isabelle Ronchetti from Switzerland and Kay Rechten from Germany. All trained and competed under George Borcherds Stables at horse shows in SA.

George and Sir Willam’s Knight Perfect Style and Grace.

ASF Weanling Champion 2011

Kay Rechten from Germany

Catriona Kozijn from Canada

George has successfully trained 23 National Springbok or Protea Riders, who can all testify to his unique way of working with every rider as an individual. He really knows every rider and will always have his or her best interest at heart! He did much more than coaching equitation.

George has helped many riders with a dream but a lack of support or finances to achieve their dreams. He always makes a plan to give them the best shot he can, whether it was a catch ride, a horse or sometimes borrowing a horse from someone else, he always makes a plan. He would rather give his riders the chance to ride one of his best horses than riding the horse himself, even though he knows he can win the championship.

There is nothing that pleases him more than helping a rider making a dream a reality.

Lauren Osborne from USA

Allie Williams from Canada

One of his greatest talents is to turn any performance, difficult, young or plain horse into an Equitation pattern horse and sometimes in limited time, to help out a rider with no horse for the Equitation Trials. George never gives up on a horse with potential, no matter what.

We as clients and friends all are very grateful for all your time, patience, help, life lessons, jokes, teasing (well sometimes not so much…) and inspiration in our lives. No words can ever describe how much he means to each one of us!!! We all wish him the very best for his new life at Corner Stone Farms in the USA and we know that America is gaining a wonderful trainer, breeder and coach!

George and Lovers Touch

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Bartholomeus Klip is a wonderfully restored Victorian homestead on an operational wheat and sheep farm amid the 10,000 acres Elandsberg Nature Reserve just outside Riebeek and a mere 15 minutes’ drive from Wellington.

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FAMILY-FRIENDLY WILD OLIVE HOUSE

Families with children can enjoy their privacy in the self-catering Wild Olive House.

FOCUS ON NATURE CONSERVATION

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