Sporting Horse Magazine July 2018

Issue 35 SPORTING HORSE

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CONTENTS REGULARS 4 4 6 32 36 46

Letter from the Editor Advertisers Cover Story: TG Stirrups Jacqui Gouws Rider Profile: Chris van der Merwe Yvonne Bolton Horse Profile: BB Nissan Polokwane Domino Van Der Boswinning Yvonne Bolton Subscription Form

THE TEAM

Johan Blom Editor

Pieter Hugo Managing Director

Marie Chin Advertising Executive

LIFESTYLE 28

Equine Essentials

THIS ISSUE 10 12 20 23 40 47 52 56 60 64 69 70 73 78

Moët Grand Day 2018 Ten Years of Refinement Callaho Stud’s 10th Annual Auction Brigid Thompson Nichola Mohr and Callaho Winston Linda Hennings and Michaela Mohr The Maple Ridge Erreplus Presidents Cup Skha Mbambo SA Boerperd: A Tribute Petro Grove Group IX Inter Africa Cup 2018 in Namibia Babette Herder and Riaan Verster The 2018 Nissan Easter Festival Caroline Malan Team Nissan Show Jumping - Know Your Team Caroline Malan The 2018 Philip Smith Memorial Equitation Championship Shelly Beckbessinger The SA Derby:The best of the best Caroline Malan Competing with SA Miniature Horses Paul Cozyn The SAWHS,Tork Craft Presidents Cup Free Jumping Frances Cheboub The “Stokkiesdraai” World Cup Qualifier show Anne Marie Esslinger The Dittmann who Dared to Dream Kirsten Wing

Copyright for all original published material is vested in SilverMane Media and may be reproduced only with the permission of the Editor. All opinions expressed in the articles appearing in SilverMane Media are those of the authors and are not necessarily subscribed to by the editorial staff of SilverMane Media.

Authors of articles are compelled to acknowledge all sources of information (if any) used in the compiling of articles and are therefore liable for copyright transgressions. SilverMane Media accepts no responsibility for claims made in the advertisements and will not be held liable for any damage resulting from the use of any of the information published in SilverMane Media.

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Marguerite le Roux Senior Designer

Gasnat Jaffer Office Manager

www.spor tinghorse.co.za EDITORIALS:

Johan Blom johan@silvermane.co.za Cell: (+27) 83 324 3709 Pieter Hugo pieter@silvermane.co.za

DESIGN:

Marguerite le Roux mleroux@silvermane.co.za

ADVERTISING:

Marie Chin marie@silvermane.co.za Cell: (+27) 82 497 4475 Nikki Kellogg nikki@sportinghorse.co.za Cell: (+01) 413 207 1209

ORDERS & INVOICING:

Gasnat Jaffer gasnat@showhorse.co.za PO Box 7872, Hout Bay, 7806, South Africa Fax: (+27) 21 790 8047

www.silvermane.co.za

Published by: SilverMane Media www.silvermane.co.za

ABOUT THE COVER Photo:

NC Photography

Rider: Horse:

Genevieve Gouws Callaho Dakar

This Is Your Time

Tel: 083 661 1543

Tel: 031 768 1453

Tel: 021 976 8044

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SUBSCRIBE! and never miss an Issue again

ADVERTISERS 35 OBC 58 50 9 3 IBC 29 22 31 39 18 22 76 27 63 45 72 1 77 FC 70 5

Ascendis Health Callaho Warmblood Sport Horses Doorndraai Stud Duneside Stud Epol Equestrian House Equipage Fulvic Health Giddyupapp Healthtech Lifestyle Hoefstraal Stud Manor D’or Maple Ridge Equestrian Martin Collins Midfeeds Mistico Rooigras Stud SAWHS South African Derby Steenberg TG Stirrups Tork Craft Western Shoppe

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

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elcome to the mid year issue, we hope you are staying warm and perhaps you are leafing through this magazine in front of a cosy fire or under your duvet!

The 10th Annual Callaho Auction was its usual slick and classy event as Brigid Thompson relates on page 12. At the auction a special tribute was paid to Yvonne Bolton who is a regular contributor to Sporting Horse and our congratulations go to her for this recognition of her contribution to equestrian sport. We look back at the Nissan Easter Festival on page 52 and the Presidents Cup on page 70. Anne Marie Esslinger takes us through the Stokkiesdraai World Cup Qualifier on page 73, an event which was immensely popular at the new venue in Brits, and hopefully will now be a regular event on our calendar.

South African Laurienne Dittmann Castle is making waves on the dressage scene and was recently awarded the highest honour in German equestrian sport - the Golden Riding Badge or Deutsche Reitabzeigen, read more about this on page 78.The Group IX Inter Africa Cup took place recently in Namibia and contributors Babette Herder and Riaan Verster enlighten us about this event incorporating dressage, showjumping and endurance on page 47.

It’s almost Derby time! Caroline Malan brings us the latest on what is in store for us this year at Derby 2018 presented by black on page 64.

There is plenty more to keep you entertained over these pages, we hope you enjoy.

Go to www.silvermane.co.za for information.

Or contact Gasnat for a sucscription form at gasnat@silvermane.co.za 6

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Stay warm and see you at the Derby.

Johan Blom

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COVER STORY

By Jacqui Gouws | Photos by NC Photography

TG STIRRUPS

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G Stirrups began around 2 years ago when my daughter, Genevieve, complained to my husband that her stirrups were so uncomfortable and really plain and boring and she wanted to find something with more “Flair & Bling”, perhaps even with her name engraved on them, more cost effective, tougher and harder wearing that doesn’t end up caked in mud every time you ride... And that’s where the idea of “TG Stirrups” was born.

David, TG Stirrups Designer & Manufacturer, also Gen’s dad, is a CNC Machinist and with his knowledge and his machinery, he was able to put this idea into practice and started prototyping “TG Stirrups”.

Genevieve was born to ride. Literally, when she was only 6 months old and just sitting, barely holding herself upright, her ‘Grandpa Errol’ who owned a lovely little holiday home in McGregor, introduced her to her very first Palomino Pony at “Farmer Jerry’s” Farm, just down the road and that’s where her love and passion for horses was ignited. At only 2 years old Gen started riding ponies on a lead rein at Sunbird Farm in Noordhoek and before we knew it, we bought her a stunning little 4 year old pony that we called Milly-Marie, who was a rescue pony and so began Gen’s journey (and ours) into the competitive world of horse riding. She began riding lessons with a very patient and nurturing teacher, Kristin Green , who started training her at the young age of 6 in the art of dressage and so sparked her passion for this discipline.

Dave used to be quite an avid BMX rider in his day as well as a competitive cyclist (Provincial Colours) and decided to incorporate the mud clearing aspect from the pedals into his New Stirrup Design so as to be more practical, especially on wet, muddy and rainy days and to prevent the build up of mud on the stirrups and of course making them quite Unique.

Milly-Marie was quite a challenge initially, being such a young, inexperienced and previously abused pony, but together they learnt to be a compatible team at a young age and excelled in the competitive arena. From there Gen moved onto the “Love of her life” Lipizza Toretto Sahara, a very flamboyant Chestnut pony with four white socks, who we bought from Marie Jean “Lipizza Stud” in Langebaan. What

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COVER STORY

THE TG STIRRUPS TEAM

Kristin & Frank Swella’s De La Vega

a fiery little mare, a bundle of dynamite, with a heart of gold and together they excelled into a dynamite package, winning many competitions in the Pony Rider arena and making us very proud parents. Thereafter entering the “Teenager Realm” or “Juniors”, Gen once again outgrew her little pony “Sahara” (who had prepared her well) and at only 12 years old and 6,1 Feet tall, Gen then moved onto her magnificent 17,2 hand horse, namely ‘Callaho Dakar’, a true gentleman and the perfect transition onto a horse and into the junior world of riding, under the instruction of Kristin Green and Astrid Muller. He is also our featured horse on the front cover of this magazine, and the rest, is history in the making!

TG Stirrups stands for “Tough Girl & Guy”as they are Unisex and we wanted to attract a broad spectrum of customers.

Our stirrups are CNC machined out of 6068 Structural Grade Aluminium and are Anodised for corrosion and abrasion resistance. We also offer electroplating in genuine 24K Gold or 22K Rose Gold, as well as Nickel plating.

We customise our stirrups to every rider’s needs, with added Austrian Swarovski’s or different colour selections, variations or even engraving for a more personalised stirrup. We offer a wider tread with a superior grip for the Show Jumpers or Eventers, slightly angled for more comfort, and we also offer a narrower tread which is preferred by the Dressage riders with a similar grip and angle. We are currently in the process of prototyping creative and new designs.

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Genevieve & Callaho Dakar

Kristin & Legacy’s Real Celeste

Tamsyn & Eagles Constantia

Victoria & CCS Strauss

Kyla & Lipizza Toretto Sahara

Nikayla & Callaho Bugatti

Astrid & Pohlands Samba

TG Stirrups Factory is based in the Western Cape in Heron Park Industrial Factory in Kommetjie.

Head Office: 0726975253 Cape Town: (021) 789 1398 - Equibox Gauteng: 0725474818 PERSONALISED STIRRUPS TO SUIT ANY RIDERS NEEDS E-mail: jackwack@mweb.co.za Address: Unit 27 HERON PARK, Wildevoelvlei Rd, Kommetjie www.tgstirrups.com

uppe marketing A16981

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For more information about our specific feeds and services: RCL FOODS: www.rclfoods.com EPOL: +27(0)31 242-8600 | www.epol.co.za | info@epol.co.za Issue 35 SPORTING HORSE

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80 COUNTRIES. 24 HOURS.

1 MOËT GRAND DAY.

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Johannesburg’s glitterati join 80 countries in a global Moët Grand Day celebration. or more than 270 years, Moët & Chandon has been driven by a bold vision and Moët Grand Day 2018 is testament to the Maison’s legendary pioneering spirit with the creation of a global champagne moment truly deserving of a place in the history books.

The glittering red-carpet Moët & Chandon par ty hosted at the Four Seasons Arcadia Ballroom, saw Johannesburg once again take its place on the world stage, with South Africa joining an astounding list of 80 countries around the globe uniting over 1 million people in a 24-hour celebration.

“Moët Grand Day has become one of the most anticipated events on the Johannesburg social calendar, and this year’s glamorous experience once again paid tribute as to why Moët & Chandon remains the world’s most loved champagne,” says Patrick Leslie, Moët & Chandon Champagne Por tfolio Manager. The evening was unforgettable, and we really showed the world how South Africa celebrates in champagne style.”

TV crews and dozens of photographers captured celebrity guests reveling in the ‘gold’ themed par ty which included guests enjoying mini magnums from Africa’s first ‘mini’ Moët & Chandon vending machine, a rocking set by DJ of the moment Lerato Kganyago; incredible choreographed dancers and a gold 6 litre illuminated Moët & Chandon was uncorked and served on the dancefloor, setting the ‘flow’ for an evening of generosity and celebration.

The event attracted the country’s top celebrities, music

royalty and business personalities including Boitumelo Thulo ‘Boity’, Luthando Shosha ‘Lootlove’, Dineo Moeketsi, Khanya Mkangisa and Kelly Khumalo who celebrated in true Moët & Chandon glamorous style, all signing and adding their personalised messages to the custom designed Moët & Chandon Instagram wall while the gorgeous Boity took time to pose in the Moët & Chandon ladder photo pod created for the event.

The ‘City of Gold’ stayed true to its name with guests arriving in glittering style, with show-shopping outfits in keeping with the ‘Gold is Grand’ dress-code. Lorna Maseko was presented with the award for ‘most glamorous’ in a fitted sequined mini dress, with Troy Molaiwa claiming the title of ‘most stylish’ in a stunning black coat embellished with gold buttons.

As guests enjoyed the evening’s festivities, a countdown culminated in a connected group toast leading up to a final toast to Moët & Chandon with a golden buzzer releasing gold confetti, a true Moët Moment which set the cheerful cadence for this magical evening.

Guests were treated to a range of Moët & Chandon from Moët & Chandon Impérial to Moët Nectar Impérial.

The culmination of Champagne drinking came when late in the evening a Moet & Chandon Imperial Illuminated Golden Methusalem, 6 litre, bottle was opened and poured into guests golden Moët goblets.

To celebrate Moët Grand Day, Moët & Chandon hosted grand experiences all over South Africa, from the High Tea at the One and Only hotel in Cape Town to allnight celebrations in select venues across Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town, proving once again that, to revel in life’s most memorable moments in grand champagne style, it Must be Moët.

Relive the very best moments from the inaugural #MoetGrandDay via www.moet.com/moetgrandday

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Sunè, Shania and Lugano

Ten Years of Refinement

Callaho Stud’s 10th Annual Auction

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By Brigid Thompson | Photos by Tracy Robertson

he Callaho Auction celebrated its tenth anniversary this year,during which time it has grown into what Ian Callender-Easby aptly terms “The Annual Callaho Family get-together”. Each year, approximately 600 horse lovers from all over South Africa meet on the first weekend of June at the Callaho Stud farm, just outside Christiana, to admire and to bid on the year’s offering of approximately fifty warmbloods, representing the best international bloodlines. The majority of these are young riding horses, backed and brought on to the stage where they are ready to begin their competitive careers. Also on offer each year is a handful of top class broodmares in foal to one of Callaho’s highly sought after stallions.

and on Saturday of the auction each horse is put through its paces in the auction ring. From the free jumping and the presentations under saddle, buyers get a very good idea of each horse’s jumping style, its bascule and use of its back over the jumps, its carefulness, scope, suppleness, natural balance, striding and ability to selfcorrect or adjust between fences.They can also assess its reflexes and recovery on landing, ability to keep the line, as well as aspects of temperament and rideability such as its willingness and ability to learn, its attitude, keenness, bravery, calmness, as well as its capacity to concentrate despite the distractions of the audience.

Potential buyers not only see the horses in action, but also have the opportunity to walk through the stables and inspect the horses. Each riding horse is fully vetted prior to the auction, The Callaho auction is completely transparent, sale prices are and Callaho’s consulting veterinarian is on hand throughout the determined by relative market value, and there are no reserve auction, to discuss the veterinary reports of each horse that a prices. In the months prior to the auction, try-outs are scheduled, buyer is interested in. which allows potential buyers the opportunity to ride and evaluate each prospect well in advance, with Callaho’s work riders on hand The auction is a format that, after ten years, works and runs like a to assist and advise. On the Friday evening before the auction, the well-oiled machine.There were, however, some refinements in the talents of each riding horse are showcased in a free jumping display, programme this year, such as having Dr Günther Friemel

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Carl Boonzaaier and Luc du Ayenne

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Oscar Nube & Catherine McFarlane

Ray Korber & Callaho Con Colado

commentating from the arena during the presentation of the auction horses, from where he could interview the riders as well as make on-the-spot changes to the presentation of each horse by modifying the fences or asking the riders to do some additional jumps so as to best show off each horse’s talents. This also placed emphasis on the fact that these are young horses that are still learning and that every outing, including the auction itself, is a learning experience for them.

Following international trends, this year’s crop of horses were noticeably more refined and athletic than those of ten years ago, to meet the demand for horses capable of tackling the faster and more technical jumping courses of today. Callaho is certainly breeding for the future, with a number of new, finer stallions already in use, and the stud is also currently importing new sireand dam-lines with a lot more “blood” to add to the extensive gene pool already in use.

As in previous years, bidding on the first five lots was slow, and many bargains were to be had. The buyers of lot No 2, Lincoln Rose (R120,000), Lot No 3, Lucinda (R90,000), and Lot No 5, Congenta (R90,000), all benefited from this slow start to the bidding. Jan Kleynhans, who bought Congenta, remarked that he “couldn’t not buy” the horse at that price, given its superb breeding

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(Jan also owns Con Quito, another of Con Coriano’s progeny, and out of the same dam line as Congenta).

On the top end of the price scale, seven horses sold for over R400,000, i.e. Lausanne (R750,000) Libertine Love (R700,000), Let’s Fly (R620,000), Conray (R460,000), Conchetta (R420,000), Convalenta (R420,000) and Lugano (R410,000).The average price of the riding horses was R281,000, but there were many bargains to be had, with nine horses selling for R150,000 and below. Even though the averages were significantly up from the previous years, buyers and spectators were unanimous that the steady but significant improvement in overall quality meant that the value-formoney equation continues to outstrip the price increases.

Lissabon and Con Coriano were once again the sires of choice in 2018. Of the ten top-priced horses, seven were by Lissabon and three by Con Coriano. Although there were only five progeny of Con Coriano, they fetched the highest average price (R352,000), while the average price for the twenty-two Lissabon progeny on offer was R320,500. The six Casparon offspring fetched an average price of R216,700, and the remaining sires between them averaged R208,600. Buyers were more cautious of bidding on the newer sires: for example, the first progeny of Callaho’s Selle Francais stallion Victory For Ever, the expressive mare Vicky

Gareth Neill, Brendan McNevin and Warren Ebersohn

Will, was bought for Jade Hooke by her fiancée for the very reasonable price of R160,000. As noted by Rogan Asken, the prices paid at the auction for these world-class, quality horses, is simply incomparable to the expense of importing an equivalent horse from Europe.

the basis for short-listing their prospects. All buyers, however, paid careful attention to pedigree.

Following the trend of the past few auctions, all the top-priced horses were from jumping bloodlines and there was less demand for top dressage pedigrees. Top-class lots from classic dressage bloodlines such as Lincoln Rose (R120,000), Benicia (R120,000), Fayenne (R160,000), Lanchette (R285,000) and Luna (R320,000) were all very good deals at the price. Dressage buyers were on the whole poorly represented, which meant that these bloodlines fetched lower prices.

Lilly Malherbe was attending her first auction. She had not been to try-outs or to the free jumping, but had based her shortlist on the horses’ pedigrees and watching their performance and movement under saddle. She was impressed with the quality of the horses, and the good movement of many had caught her eye. She was also impressed with the very slick organisation.

Many auction-goers we spoke to were there for the show and the spectacle that the Callaho Auction has become synonymous with, and were not necessarily committed to buying (saying this would depend on prices and demand). Many were hoping for a lucky break and were willing to bid on good horses going for fair prices, and many of them were successful. The more serious buyers generally fell into two categories: those who had attended try-outs (either themselves or their trainer), and those who relied on watching the free jumping and the ridden presentation as

We spoke to some of the hopeful buyers to find out what factors they considered when bidding on particular horses:

Michaela Janse van Rensburg was also attending the auction for the first time. She had tested out about eight horses at try-outs and short-listed her top jumping prospects, but did not want to spend too much money on a young horse, as she felt that if she was to buy a top-priced horse then it made more sense to get a “going” horse that was already jumping in the higher classes. She was, however, delighted to be the winning bidder or her first choice, import Valentina, whom she felt was a very good buy at R240,000.

Melanie Friedmann was ecstatic with her buy, Castino (R110,000).

She had been to try-outs and liked the look of this particular horse during the presentation and in the stable.The bidding was slow

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Vanessa Easby and the last Harry The Horse

AUCTION STATS: Highest price (Riding Horse): Lausanne: R750,000 Lowest price (Riding Horse): Congenta and Lucinda: R90,000 Average price (Riding Horses): R281,000 Highest price (Broodmare): Bonita: R140,000 Lowest price (Broodmare): Apache Bay: R40,000 Average price (Broodmares): R96,000

Murray Pote on Lugano & Chatan Hendriks on Loki

when Castino came in and she saw the opportunity to buy “the right horse at the right price”. She had bid on a horse at the 2017 Capital Auction but the price was way over her price range, so she was delighted to have acquired at Callaho a quality horse at such a fair price.

Tamara Rueda was attending her third auction, having bought Liantos in 2016. She told us before the auction that she had tried out eight horses and was keen to buy, depending on the prices. She succeeded in buying Lugano (described by Rogan Asken as being “Olympic-quality”), for R410,000.

Susan Turner from Cape Town was attending her first auction.

She felt that the auction prices were very reasonable.The Callaho auction model was in her opinion, leading the country and setting the trend for the future. The whole process, from try-outs to the actual auction was, she felt, very professionally run.

Sporting Horse also asked some of the regular auction-goers about the changes they have seen in the auction over the past ten years: Simon Burn, who has attended all ten Callaho Auctions, commented that the main development he has seen over the past ten years is the depth of the gene pool with which Callaho is breeding. While

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Callaho has always had world class stallions, the quality of the mares has improved dramatically. Con Coriano is proving himself as a breed stallion of note, with many of his progeny moving up the ranks quickly. “I have not seen a bad one” commented Burn.

Simon felt that the 2018 auction offered good value, with buyers being able to purchase “horses of international standard at attainable prices.” He added, “This method of bringing a breeder’s stock to the market is now a proven successful formula. Every buyer has the possibility to purchase the best the stud has to offer, and everything that is bred is available to the public.The fact that other breeders are implementing this method proves that this model works. Well done to Callaho on their 10th successful auction!”

Ingeborg Sanne had not been to try-outs, but was hoping she might pick up a good dressage horse at the right price. She has attended a number of the auctions, starting in 2010, and felt that the horses had improved year on year, and that there were more “very good” horses available at each auction.

Alan Baron, who had first attended the 2013 auction, felt that the rideability of this year’s crop of auction horses stood out such that even ‘normal’ riders would be able to get the best out of them.

He felt that in the past, the really “wow” horses at the auction had been suited more for professional riders, being too complicated

Ian & Franceska Sanne

for most non-professionals. He was pleased to see that there was now a much bigger pool of easy-to-ride horses for the amateur rider. Pierre Bouwer echoed these sentiments, saying that it was off-putting for buyers to attend an auction where the horses were too difficult for the average person to ride, or where the horses were being bought by professionals at very high prices. He believed Callaho was on the right track in focusing on producing more rideable horses for the wider market.

Rosemary Balmer bought her first Callaho horse at the first auction in 2009 and her second in 2012, and is a regular auctiongoer. She felt that the biggest change in the ten years that the auction has been running, has been the increasing prices of the horses since the first three auctions, as local equestrians have increasingly come to realise the quality of horses available at Callaho.With the increase in the number of interested buyers has come a corresponding increase in the prices fetched.

Maureen Beyers has been to a number of auctions and was the under-bidder on Satine. Maureen stated that the quality of the horses on offer is still excellent and that Callaho is breeding from very good bloodlines.

Guest of honour at this year’s auction was SA Equitation doyen Yvonne Bolton. Having been involved with Equitation for the past

forty years,Yvonne is still the National Equitation President, as well as the Director of the Beaulieu Equestrian Academy. She was very effusive in her praise of the event, and told Sporting Horse that “it is no surprise that so many from all over the country make this event an absolute must to attend on their equestrian calendar.”

She went on to say, “The true professionalism in the organisation of every aspect of the Callaho Auction is evident from the outset.

The presentation of the venue is spectacular and the execution and attention to detail obvious from the loose jumping to the viewing of the horses under saddle and over fences. The preparation of all the progeny was outstanding – and their performance under such stressful circumstances was impressive, with effective support from the Callaho team under the leadership of Maud Aarts. The depth of knowledge and the international exposure shared by Dr Günther Friemel with his audience added to an event that could hold its own anywhere in the world.”

By the time of writing, the 2018 crop of Callaho auction lots had been dispersed to their new homes across Southern Africa, some as far as Zimbabwe, and we look forward to following the future careers of these young stars. We wish Callaho Stud everything of the best with the backing and bringing on of the next auction crop, and with their ongoing quest to raise the bar for equestrian sport in South Africa by making world-class sport horses increasingly accessible to South African riders.

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By Linda Hennings and Michaela Mohr | Photo by Jessica Röll

NICHOLA MOHR AND CALLAHO WINSTON (WENCKSTERN/IDOCUS/MICHELLINO DH)

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“From a sandy farm near the very tip of the African continent, bursts a young dressage rider with remarkable roots and a fabulous future.”

he tells her story with modest shrugs of her shoulders and a calmness that begins to show the patience with which she has trained and developed every one of the horses she rides from the beginning of their schooling all the way to Grand Prix. Currently, Nichola and her horses have been working with Dressage Olympic rider, Tanya Seymour, since last year.

Nichola Mohr is the daughter of Geoff and Linda Mohr.

The Mohrs have a long history of farming in the Philippi area, and several family tentacles reaching into horse racing and breeding in the Western Cape. Nichola, and her sister Michaela schooled up their own ponies, which were acquired by thrifty and bargaining means. Neither had expensive imported mounts bestowed upon them, by parent or benevolent benefactors. Yet both rose through the ranks, with Nichola being invited to compete at the Horses and Dreams Show in Germany after winning the children’s FEI World Dressage Challenge in 2004. Since then she has been invited to train and compete overseas numerous times over the years.

has been given the chance of a lifetime to export one of her own horses overseas to compete, and the only thing left for her to do was to pick one.

It was one of the hardest decisions she ever had to make, as she has so many talented horses to choose from. She eventually managed to get her options down to two horses.

In the end she decided to export Callaho Winston, as he is much farther in his training and would be ready for Grand Prix much sooner than the others. Nichola would still love to send her other horse, as she thinks he is just as good. She would love to have two South African self-trained horses with her on her European competitive journey.

Winston (who’s sire, Callaho’s Wenkstern was successfully competed in Europe by Natalie Hobday) came into the Mohr family’s life at the very cold Callaho auction in 2013.

Nichola fell in love with him as soon as she had her first ride on him during the Callaho trials earlier that year.They clicked together as well as she had with his half brother Callaho Fabriccio, who she had loved working with and knew it would be the same with Winston.

With a big match temperament that manifests in calm and collected grace in the arena, Nichola brings out the very best in each of her string of very different horses across all the grades. With an almost uncanny ability to memorize tests, her “ring-craft” and ability to showcase the strengths of each individual horse, puts her firmly in the category of inspiring young rider to watch in the future.

On the day of the Callaho Auction, as Winston was about to make his entrance, there was an accident with him and his rider. Due to this, he would have to make his appearance on the auction at a later time. A strong wind had blown across the warm up arena and all the young horses warming up bolted, which caused Winston to slip and fall over with his rider, sending her to hospital via helicopter.

She competed against the cream of the South African crop of dressage riders on imported and South African bred warmbloods at the CDI held near Johannesburg, 1400km from her home base in Cape Town, during September last year. After an expressive test with Callaho Winston, three of the visiting FEI judges approached Nichola and her team to compliment her performance.

An unfortunate turn of events, but since then, Nichola has built a strong and trusting relationship with Winston. She says that she has never worked with a horse like him before; he finds the grand prix work so easy. Winston has taught her so much over the last five years, learning to work with his quirks and teaching him how to use his copious amount of energy in a positive and beneficial way. “He has an unbelievable hind leg and is super quick and sensitive. I just have to think it and he does it.” Because of this special relationship, his build and his natural talent, Callaho Winston was Nichola’s obvious choice to start her European competitive career with.

It has always been her dream to canter down the centre line at a big show overseas, imagining what it would feel like competing at the Olympic or World Equestrian Games.

However, she is clear on the fact that if she were to have an opportunity to compete internationally, it would be on one of her own horses that she has trained herself. Now, Nichola

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We all wish Nichola and Callaho Winston the best of luck on their journey.

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From left to right: Simon Burn, Nicole Horwood, Chris van der Merwe, Johnathan Clarke and Bruce Dewar on right.

TH E MA P L E R I D GE E R R E P LUS

PRESIDENTS CUP

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By Skha Mbambo | Photos by Fine Photography

aple Ridge Equestrian Farm is set in the spectacular Cradle of Humankind and, as has been the norm for the past 16 years, hosted yet another of their immaculately well-orchestrated and high calibre events, the prestigious Maple Ridge Erreplus Presidents Cup Show. Thanks to a successful partnership between Simon Burn, owner of Midfeeds and Tack ‘n Togs, and Verity Combrink, owner of the beautiful Maple Ridge Equestrian Farm, this is definitely a ‘must attend’ show and marks the beginning of show jumping season. It is a high stakes event with a multitude of prizes, the ultimate one being an Erreplus saddle, a top brand renowned for its innovative design and ranked very high on the list of top performance saddles.

Top show jumpers from all over the country as well as South Africa’s neighbours are featured at this top event. Names that

make other showjumpers sit up and take notice, the likes of Nicole Horwood, Chris van der Merwe, Jonathan Clarke, Ronnie Lawrence, Barry Taylor, Charley Crockart, Nicola Sime Riley, Bryce McCall to name but a few... the list of Southern Africa’s finest and top ranked, highly talented, super competitive and professional riders.Talk about crème de la crème. Hot on their heels or hooves as it were, the list of young, talented, ambitious and upcoming riders was equally impressive, Jason Slade, the Garton sisters – Hannah and Olivia,Thomas Triggol, Bianca Pitt, Travis Dawson... another long list of riders that are the future of this exclusive sport.The bloodlines of the horses taking part were equally impressive.

Two arenas were running for the duration of the show, which ran from the 7th through to the 11th of March. The courses, designed by the illustrious Kate Launder, were quite challenging and of international standard. Colourful signage was spread across the whole of Maple Ridge Equestrian Farm in beautiful

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Nicole Horwood & Mark White Nissan’s Capital Don Cumarco

array representing the support from generous and committed sponsors – Tack ’n Togs, Midfeeds (main sponsors), Freddy, TorkCraft, Equipage, Delport and Thomson, Equus, Spurwing Horse Feeds, the Jansen family, Martin Collins, RotoFlo Holdings, Epol, Equi-Feeds and Turnierstal Hilmar Meyer Young Rider Series, all without whom the show would not have been the massive success that it was. The event was live streamed

by Digi-TV, SA Showjumping also kept abreast with the event timeously, posting results on Facebook as they came out.

375mpm, was based on equality of penalties and athletes were placed in accordance with the time taken to complete a round.

In a competition where even 0.1 of a second counts, Chris van der Merwe clinched the lead on BB Nissan Polokwane Domino van der Boswinning, beating Jonathan Clarke and the much-acclaimed Data Sciences Hummer van Het Bevrijdthof, by a mere 0.28s. Super tight, if you ask me. Jonathan Clarke on Data Sciences Felix van de Mispelaere and Ronnie Lawrence on Gillian van Orshof were 3rd and 4th respectively.

Fine Photography, owned by Tanneth Bern, covered the event and their beautiful and mighty fine, pun intended, pictures were constantly popping up on different social media sites and were liked and shared by all. Tack ‘n Togs kept everyone busy with a “selfie” Instagram competition, who doesn’t like taking a “selfie”? Bianca Pitt was the lucky winner of a Horseware Ireland hamper worth a whopping R8000.00. Next time they say “selfie” competition... whip out those phones!

The second competition was against the clock, with the same time allowed as the 1st class but a slightly higher height of 1.50m and had the riders racing daringly to make the best time while incurring as little penalties as possible. For the third and final competition, riders go against the clock jumping a height of 1.50m with the speed limit being 375mpm. Breakneck speed over breakneck height, one definitely needs guts and skill for this. For one to qualify for the final cup competition, one has to participate in the 1st and 2nd classes.

The Cup competition itself comprised of 3 classes over 3 days, the first competition with a height of 1.45m and time allowed of 26

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Tack ‘n Togs, who had set up shop, taking up half of Maple

Chris van der Merwe & BB Nisssan Polokwane Domino van der Boswinning

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Barry Taylor & Counter Attack

THE 2018 MAPLE RIDGE ERREPLUS 1.50M PRESIDENTS CUP FINAL 1st: BB Nisssan Polokwane Domino van der Boswinning - Chris van der Merwe 2nd: Mark White Nissan’s Capital Don Cumarco - Nicole Horwood 3rd: Data Sciences Hummer van het Bevrijdthof - Jonathan Clarke 4th: Counter Attack - Barry Taylor 5th: Capital Castigo - Chris van der Merwe Ridge’s thatched tea/conference room and well stocked with their prestigious brands of tack and rider wear, used this opportunity to launch their newly acquired stylish brand Espoir in a pop-up shop set across from the main shop. Being the main sponsors of the event, they had the advantage of being the only tack shop present and both local and out of town riders showed up in numbers to kit themselves out in KEP and Kask helmets, Spooks, Animo, Espoir, and Horsewear Ireland rider wear. For their beloved and precious equine partners they were spoilt for choice with Erreplus saddles and tack, Zandona, Equi-Italy stirrups, Micklem Bridles, Espoir tack, Icevibe boots and more all readily available on site. Another highlight of this event was Arnorld Botha, who used this opportunity to raise money for children with cancer by taking on the #94.7Rideinaweddingdress challenge and had the crowd whistling and cheering him while he sped a spectacular round going over jumps resplendent in his colourful costume.

jungle gym so that children could have fun while their parents rode. Mike and Judy, who frequent shows and mostly sell childoriented ware, had a stall fully stocked for the event. A variety of food was available on site and some families I saw had brought their portable braai stands and had a lekker jol. The pancake lady, who is also a regular at Maple Ridge had people queuing for her delectable pancakes. The vibe all round was lively and happy, with the ice cream man constantly conducting his business on foot. As per ritual, Sunday was the day for the big lunch in the big marquee which rounds off the event in a sophisticated way, with tables reserved in advance on one side and Spur with their mouth-watering food on the other side ready to cater to the famished.

With the amazing talent and superb horsemanship that made it into the Presidents Cup class on Sunday, if bets were placed, I would not have known who to pick. All had their eye on the prize, they all rode valiantly and gave it their all, but there could This show is fast becoming a family outing opportunity, Verity, unfortunately only be one winner and Chris van der Merwe with Tarryn, the whole team of Maple rangers and the very efficient his partner BB Nissan Polokwane Domino van der Boswinning, staff of Maple Ridge Equestrian Farm had outdone themselves, galloped away with the much coveted JF shoulder free Erreplus securing the venue and catering to their visitors some of whom saddle, snatching it by a second from four times Derby winner were staying in the beautiful and comfortable cottages that are and jumping queen Nicole Horwood and her famous horse available for renting for the duration of the show. Having stayed Mark White Nissan’s Capital Don Cumarco. Chris will soon in one of them I can assure you that they deserve a handful of have a showroom full of Erreplus saddles if he continues on this stars. There was a secure children’s play area complete with a streak, as he won another of the prestigious saddles last year.

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UNIQUE LIKE YOU!

VLimited edition “Ophelie” First Lady 2X Helmet with carbon shell, Stardust front vent , Swarovski vent piping, and Nude colour Leather peak and top grids. Available by special order.

Contact Western Shoppe to find out more about GPA custom orders: enquiries@westernshoppe.com or 011 361 2000.

EQUESTRIAN ESSENTIALS HARCOUR SAMUEL MENS SHIRT

The Harcour Sam Competition Shirt for men is an elegant long sleeved bi-stretch shirt.The nylon pique area on the back adds to the comfort and wearability of the shirt. It features a collar, tie loop, ribs cuffs and printed Harcour logo on the chest pocket.

R2580.00. Available at Equestrian House: 083 661 1543.

TG STIRRUPS

TG Stirrup bags.

TG Stirrups Jumpers, wider tread.

Head Office: 072 697 5253.

Cape Town: 021 789 1398 - Equibox.

Gauteng: 072 547 4818.

FULVIC EXCEL WITH ADDED JOINT SUPPORT

Fulvic Acid is the key to regenerative nutrition and speeded healing and is essential for vitamin and mineral absorption.

Used for prevention of illness and degenerative conditions, has anti-inflammatory benefits to ease joint pain and increase mobility. Protects areas of existing inflammation, supports connective tissue, tendons and muscle, aids in the healing and their recovery process including the bones, tissues and cells.

For more information please visit www.fulvichealth.co.za.

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TG STIRRUPS

TG’s Anodised Stirrups in an assortment of colour variations.

Head Office: 072 697 5253.

Cape Town: 021 789 1398 - Equibox.

Gauteng: 072 547 4818.

TG STIRRUPS

TG’s Rose Gold Numna with added crystals for that extra special sparkle.

Head Office: 072 697 5253.

Cape Town: 021 789 1398 - Equibox.

Gauteng: 072 547 4818.

EQUESTRIAN ESSENTIALS THE GIDDY UP APP

Convenient, free and easy to navigate;The Giddy Up App is a must-have application for all equestrians. Its functionalities include a social feed, competitions, classifieds, events, and much more! It is available on Android and Apple iStores.

The Giddy Up App Team can be contacted for more information on info@thegiddyupapp.com.You can follow them on social media: @TheGiddyUpApp

SMART HAEMOBOOST GEL

A complex supplement to help promote racing performance, endurance, recovery and health.

Contains Amino acids,Vitamins and minerals in a gel form. Packaged in a convenient 1.1l dosing bottle. Available from Midfeeds.

011 468 1824 / www.tackntogs.co.za.

HARCOUR MENS ORIENT BREECHES

Harcour Orient Mens Breeches features a double layer fabric on the knee area and comprised of water-repellent and bi stretch fabric. R2850.00. Available at Equestrian House: 083 661 1543.

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SMART GREEN LIP JOINT SUPPLEMENT

A superior joint supplement with Green lip mussel extract which has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. Packaged in a 1kg bucket.

Available from Midfeeds. 011 468 1824 / www.tackntogs.co.za.

Carefree, fly free summer

ALSO AVAILABLE IN 5L

Fly repellent- An effective gel and spray-on fly repellent for protection against house flies.

Contains Cypermethrin, Citronella oil, Essential herbal extracts

Reg G2953 of Act 36/ 1947

Reg G2951 of Act36/1947

Science, Solutions, Service www.vtech.co.za Client Service Centre: 0860 109 779 Cnr. Douglas and Old Pretoria Road, Midrand, South Africa, PO Box 12285, Vorna Valley, 1686, South Africa

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Castigo

HORSEPROFILE RIDER PROFILE Crashman

CHRIS VA N D E R M E R W E

By Yvonne Bolton | Photos by Jacqui S Photography

Tell us about your younger years – where did you start riding and whereabouts?

I started riding in the Eastern Cape, at a small Riding School between Port St. Francis and St. Francis Bay.

influenced your early riding career?

Mr first Instructor was Ben Stander, who really taught me to be a horseman at a very early age. He gave me tremendous confidence and taught me all the basics of horse riding.

Did your parents support your interest in equestrian sport and have any other members of your family ridden or been involved with horses?

My parents were a huge support and without their assistance it would not have been possible. My sister competed at a lower level in Dressage to myself, but really only rode for the fun of it.

Having moved to the Junior ranks, who were your first horses and what memorable achievements do you recall from those years?

I had a few young horses, prior to getting my first Junior horse – Little Big Time. My fondest memories of him were when we won my first 1.50m Grand Prix at the age of 16.

He was a really great horse and I have still to find a horse with as much heart as he possessed.

Do you have any fond memories of ponies that were special during your children’s career?

The Highlight of my pony career was definitely with my special pony Ruby Wine, when I won all 4 CA classes at the Easter Festival.

Who were your first Instructors and how do you think they

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Tell us a little about your move to Johannesburg and what motivated the relocation – where you rode once you were in Gauteng?

Back in my early days of competing on the Show Jumping Circuit it was becoming impossible to travel and ride in all the big shows, when one was based in the Eastern Cape. At

HORSEPROFILE RIDER PROFILE Cavalier

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HORSEPROFILE RIDER PROFILE

the time I was ready to compete at a higher level, but needed to relocate to Gauteng in order to be closer to the venues that hosted the top level jumping shows. Fortunately, I had the offer to work ride for Barry Taylor, who took me under his wing and moulded me into the rider I am today.

In the early days of competing in the Adult Show Jumping classes, which horses did you have at the time?

At the start of my Adult career, I had Little Big Time and I also had the advantage of competing on some of Barry’s horses in the bigger classes. I also imported a young horse, which I eventually sold on. Then my next horse was Domino van der Boswinning, who has been a great horse and we have had several memorable achievements together.

When did you move to Polokwane and were you involved in the opening of Blouberg Ryskool?

I moved to Polokwane in April 2012 and although I was not part of the opening of Blouberg Ryskool, we have together grown it into a really professional yard.

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Cavalier

I am sure that your schedule at the yard is very busy – are you enjoying the new role of Coach there?

I am coaching the Adult and Junior riders at the yard and have really enjoyed this part of running an equestrian establishment.

Tell us about your Sponsors and how they have impacted on your Show Jumping career?

My journey would have been impossible without my Sponsors.

At the beginning I was very fortunate to be part of the firstTeam Nissan riders with Barry and Lorette Taylor. More recently, I have secured a Sponsorship from the BB Motorgroup Nissan Polokwane and we are at present growing our partnership and foresee great things for the future.

On the lighter side, when you have time off from your equestrian commitments, what other pursuits do you enjoy?

At the moment, there is not a lot of time away from work, but when I do enjoy a little free time it is happily spent with my wife and our newborn baby.

Sara Bisson uses GCS-MAX

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HORSE PROFILE

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HORSE PROFILE

BB Nissan Polokwane Domino van der Boswinning winning the 2016 President’s Cup

BB NISSAN POLOKWANE

DOMINO VAN DER BOSWINNING

By Yvonne Bolton | Photos by Jacqui S Photography

Who imported BB Nissan Polokwane Domino van der Boswinning and where did he come from in Europe?

Lara Neill imported BB Nissan Polokwane Domino van der Boswinning from Sancho Voerman in Belguim when he was a 4 year old.

What level was he competing at prior to arriving in South Africa?

Prior to the horse coming to South Africa he was jumping 1.10m in Europe.

How did you first hear about him and once you had ridden him, what were your first impressions?

While I was riding for Barry Taylor, I often saw the Neills jumping and training him in lessons and always liked the way he went. Then late one afternoon Gareth phoned me and said they were selling him and was I interested? At the time

I did not have the funds, but with the help of a miracle, I was able to make a plan in the end and to purchase him.

What was BB Nissan Polokwane Domino van der Boswinning’s early history and where was he bred and produced?

Gareth and Lara produced the horse right up to 1.40m before I bought him.

Does he come from a bloodline that has produced any other good jumpers?

Yes, his father is Clinton, a very well known sire to many great jumpers and the sire of his dam, Sheyenne de Baugu, is also an accomplished sire.

Tell us a little about your partnership with BB Nissan Polokwane Domino van der Boswinning when you first

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HORSE PROFILE

started riding him?

Prior to BB Nissan Polokwane Domino van der Boswinning coming to me, he had a few issues with “napping” and he certainly taught me how to be patient. I also learnt how to understand different personalities in horses.

What sort of personality does BB Nissan Polokwane Domino van der Boswinning have?

Domino is a strong willed horse and does not have an easy mind, but I clicked with him and learnt to work with him.

When you do this, you get through to him and you are able to produce top quality performance. I was absolutely determined to make the partnership work and was open to changing my way to meet Domino halfway, which has produced the success that we have had together.

He is also a sensitive horse and likes attention. He knows

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when he is at a show and gets quite hyped and excited.

All top horses have some quirks – what are BB Nissan Polokwane Domino van der Boswinning’s and what is he like around the yard?

He is fairly straightforward around the yard and fits in quite easily with all the daily routines.

What have your most memorable achievements been with this impressive jumper?

Definitely winning President’s Cup twice was a big moment for both of us and proves what a great horse he is.

Give us a little insight into your equestrian goals with BB Nissan Polokwane Domino van Boswinning for the future?

This year we will continue to compete in the WCQ Shows and my dream is to qualify for the World Equestrian Games in 2022.

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“

A breed is defined as a group of horses with a common origin and possessing certain distinguishable characteristics that are transmitted to the offspring, such that the offspring possess the parents’ characteristics. These characteristics make the breed different from other breeds Ashley Griffin - University of Kentucky 42

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”

SA BOERPERD

A TRIBUTE

By Petro Grové | Photos by Jaco Wiid & Deon Harris

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T

he SA Boerperd of today is well known for its versatility, even temperament, intelligence, hardiness, sure-footedness, reliability and beauty.

Acknowledged as breed by SA Studbook, as well as internationally, few people know that this amazing breed was composite of may breeds in its developing phases. In this article, we wish to pay tribute to its most influential predecessors and their invaluable contribution through the past centuries.

With the establishment of a halfway station between east and west in Table Bay by die Dutch East Indian Company, the new colony desperately needed horses. The first horses to be imported came from Indonesia and were most probably a cross between Barb Horses and Java Ponies. There is good indication that the Barb Horses were actually a Barb-Arabian cross. Not much information is available about the Java Ponies, however the Barb Ponies (originally form North Africa), were very popular in Europe at that time and became well known for their gentle nature and eagerness to learn, as well as racing. Today, the Barb horses’ legacy is clear in its genetic contribution to modern developing horse breeds around the world such as the Thoroughbred (England), Mustang (USA) and Quarter Horse, as well as the SA Boerperd.

Arabian

Andalusian

By 1665, there were enough horses for moderate trade within the community. The unfortunate event of a sinking ship on route to India resulted in fourteen Arabian Stallions of superior quality, intended for the Shah of Persia’s stud, swimming ashore. This event marked the first addition of pure Arabian Horse blood to the developing Cape Horse, therewith the first purposeful actions to improve the horse population.

The Arab Horse does not need any introduction. From ancient origin, it was and still is well known for its high tail carriage and characteristic concave profile. Apart from visual refinement and beauty, the Arab Horse had much more to bring to the table with regard to endurance, hardiness and intelligence, therewith improving the genetic pool of the developing Cape Horse - a direct ancestor of the SA Boerperd. As nautical transportation and trade become more common, the Arab Horse’s legacy today is evident in a large number of breeds around the world that include Thoroughbreds, Morgan Horses, American Saddlebreds, American Quarter Horses,Welsh Ponies, Australian Stock Horses and Appaloosas, to name but a few. We salute the noble Arab Horse for its contribution.

A century later, at the time of the Napoleonic wars in Europe, there was an influx of mainly grey Andalusian Horses from French ships on route to South America. Known through the ages as a war horse, this strong but elegant and compact horse’s contribution to the gene pool of the Cape Horse was invaluable. It’s sensitive and docile nature added to the development of the Cape Horse’s even temperament that today is still one of the many distinctive characteristics in the SA Boerperd.With its strongly built silhouette and distinctive curves, broad chest, well defined withers, high neck carriage, athleticism and stamina, these horses show a unique kind of presence and their legacy in the SA Boerperd is unmistakable.

As was the case with Arab Horses, the Andalusians’ influence in modern breeds such as Hanoverians, Friesians and Warmbloods will live on for centuries to come. With 44

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Hanoverian

Hackney

Friesian

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the Andalusian Horses added to the Arab and Java pony bloodline, the Cape Horses became a very sought after commodity.

By the late 18th century, horse racing became increasingly popular in Europe, which of course carried over to the Cape Colony. At first high quality Thoroughbreds were imported from England and were not only used for breeding race horses, but also to improve the Cape Horse by adding size and posture. From the later Thoroughbred imports, stallions were made available for coverings in different districts of the Colony.The horse population by that time had grown to approximately 225 000, and horse breeding developed into a thriving industry with exportation to India and Australia. However in 1719 and 1763 respectively huge numbers of horses were lost as a result of outbreaks of African Horse Sickness. However sad the circumstances, this can be seen as nature’s natural selection process where only the fittest survived.

Animals susceptible to the disease were removed from the gene pool leaving only the most hardy horses to continue the progeny.

Evidence of Hackney imports can be found from the early 19th century. From 1836 to the second Anglo-Boer War, cross breeding with Hackneys was encouraged to improve the quality of the Cape Horse yet again. In 1860 specifically selected Hackney stallions were imported from England for this purpose. Not long after, breeds with the Hackney prominently featuring in their ancestry such as Norfolk Trotters and Cleveland Bays were readily available for breeding. Apart from its role in the lineage of the SA Boerperd, the Hackney also played a prominent role in the development of American Saddle Breds, Morgan Horses and German Warmbloods.Today still the Hackney is known for its high knee action, flashy trot, wide chest, deep body and arched neck.

More breeds were introduced to the SA Boerperd’s already established phenotype and genotype. These breeds include Saddlebreds and Friesian Horses. As with the SA Boerperd, Saddlers were also a breed developed in modern times, namely

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the early 19th century as there was a need for a good utility horse to work in sugarcane plantations in America. Between these breeds, they have the Thoroughbred as common denominator.

The Friesian horse of today is well known for its imposing carriage and presence and few people know that their numbers were seriously depleted between the two World Wars. Looking back on its history, traces can be found of Eastern blood that was introduced to the breed at the time of the Crusades. Subsequently, the Andalusian also contributed to the modern bloodlines during the eighty years of war (1568 – 1648) when the Netherlands were occupied by Spain. Andalusians were crossbred with Friesians to produce the lighter horse of today. The common denominator between Friesians and SA Boerperd is the Andalusian Horse.

Friesians that were crossbred with the earlier Cape Horse, as well as Thoroughbreds and Hackneys, resulted in the Flemish Horse, also bred in South Africa.

After the Anglo-Boer War (1899 – 1902), the surviving horses were commonly known as “Boer Horses”. The process of improving the “Boer Horses” with Thoroughbreds was resumed with stallions that survived the war. The horses were now called Boerperd, as the British soldiers named them during the war.

Thousands of horses were lost during the war, however nature also played a significant part in shaping the breed where only the strongest and most hardy and sure-footed horses survived in the harsh conditions of war. It was from these surviving horses, that the SA Boerperd’s progeny stemmed. Planned and purposefully selected breeding followed thereafter.

Much can be said about the individual development of specific bloodlines within the SA Boerperd. However, the mission of this article was to give recognition to the most influential and respected breeds on which the foundation of the SA Boerperd was built. In awe we pay tribute to all the above horse breeds whose collective legacies live on today in the proudly South African SA Boerperd.

Photographer: Jaco Wiid

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Below: Sandune Game Lodge

DRESSAGE - SHOW JUMPING - ENDURANCE

GROUP IX INTER AFRICA CUP

2018 IN NAMIBIA

Horses and riders from five African nations and three equestrian disciplines made this year’s Inter Africa Cup Group IX Event a very special experience.

By Babette Herder and Riaan Verster | Photos by Billy Smit

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F

rom 10th to 13th May, teams from Botswana, Mauritius, Namibia, South Africa and Zambia demonstrated excellent riding ability and identified the champions for Southern Africa in the Nations Cup.

The organizers, NAMEF (Namibian Equestrian Federation) and Duneside Stud, succeeded in presenting dressage, show jumping and endurance in the context of a single event for the first time in the history of the Inter Africa Cup. The extensive outdoor area of Sandune Game Lodge, near the small town of Gobabis close to the border of Botswana and the international standard of the stud farm offered superlative conditions on the tournament days for the implementation of Namibia’s biggest horse show to date. The event was opened by the Honourable Festus Ueitele, who as Governor of the Omaheke Region, pointed out the importance of the tournament for the region and also for the whole of Namibia.

The parade of international competitors and the raising of the flags gave athletes and guests an international flair. This was underlined during the event also by the presence of the president of the FEI (Federation Equestre Internationale), Ingmar De Vos. “We have seen considerable development in the region with new nations reaching the world stage and this is thanks to events such as this and the dedicated individuals and National Federations working around the clock to provide opportunities and stepping stones to the top level“ so De Vos in his greeting.

On the sport: Namibia was able to win the competitions in dressage and show jumping. In a thrilling final, the Namibian dressage team won with 65.16% just ahead of Botswana (64.66%), followed by South Africa (61.92%) and Zambia (55.86%). Outstanding performances were shown by the Namibian show jumpers, who remained in all special stages without dropping off and thus Botswana with only 6 penalties on the second place. Mauritius, South Africa and Zambia

Award Ceremony

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Below: Raquel Mendes (NAM) on Atlanticus

Right: Nadine Flemming (NAM) on Seeis Shelton

Above: Endurance at it’s best - Ceri Putman with Duneside Mission.

Overall fastest time in the 80th kilometers.

Above: Ingmar De Vos, President of FEI (Federation Equestre Internationale) driven by Kobus van de Merve with his beautiful Friesian Stallion.

followed in the other places. Botswana then won the Inter Africa Endurance Team Event ahead of Namibia. A special feature of the Inter Africa Cup, which has been held since 2000, is that horses can be made available to participants from different nations by the respective host country.This year, riders from Mauritius, South Africa and Zambia were able to compete with Namibian horses. Every rider can imagine what a challenge it is to start in a national race with a “loan horse” after only a short preparation time. Naturally every horse owner is acquainted with the trust involved in putting your mount at the disposal of a foreign rider. At this point a special thanks to all horse owners who made their horses available and made the tournament possible.

If the days were dedicated to sports competitions, the evening events and the supporting program provided social and breeding highlights. The Namibian Warmblood Horse Society presented proven stallions and mares of Namibian warmblood breeding as well as highly talented young horses for dressage and show jumping. The presentation of two Friesian stallions

in a Pas de Deux provided insights into the performance of Baroque horses. The focus of all activities, however, was the international exchange on the subject of horses - at the evening dinner or cocktail, in the elegant restaurant of the lodge or in the event tent with live music, in the stables or on the edge of the tournament grounds. National similarities and differences in breeding and training of the “partner horse” were discussed. Rides were commented, achievements admired and failures captured by the teams. Old friendships were renewed, new friendships were made. And not just across national borders, but also across the disciplines.

Dressage, Jumping and Endurance riders talked about rideability and collection ability, front and hindquarter action, equine nutrition and questions like: Does an endurance horse have to be trained in dressage? Can dressage and jumping horses be trained in the bush? All questions, opinions and answers ended up in one connecting element - the responsibility for the partner “horse” and the joy of horseriding.

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Chris vd Merwe 6 bar winner - Photo credit Denford Studios

THE 2018 NISSAN EASTER FESTIVAL WE SAT DOWN WITH THOSE IN THE KNOW TO REFLECT ON ANOTHER FABULOUS FESTIVAL Written for and on behalf of KPC by Caroline Malan – The PR Machine.

Held at Kyalami Equestrian Park each year, equestrian lovers are lucky to have the 10 day festival of fun which incorporates various disciplines then sprinkles exciting entertainment in and around the arena’s for those not competing. We caught up with some of the people who made it all happen as well as those who performed perfectly!

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Adriano Brianos- Photo credit Denford Studios

T

he newest addition to the Nissan Easter Festival was the gymkhana with 45 entrants and countless volunteers, with all proceeds donated to the Highveld Horse Care Unit. Heading up the project was enthusiast Nicky Whitfield; “Perhaps our biggest learning from this was that not everyone checks the website in terms of entries – so we started by having to make phone calls to riding schools, SANESA and others in order to get the word out about the new event.We received many enquiries from adults wanting some recreational fun, so next time we will give adults the opportunity to join.

Heather Mpofu and Madelaine de Beer from KEP were brilliant, resulting in the event being a huge success.”

On the equitation side, it was Tegan Bruyns who claimed the limelight as she walked away victorious in the Philip Smith Equitation Championship; “I competed in the Philip Smith on Hidden Pleasure; jumped three classes in the 1.35m with Capital Cameroon and three classes in the 1.10m with Gondor Porte Bonheur.To prepare for the equitation, I worked on Pleasure’s fitness by increasing her dressage lessons and doing lots of track and hill work.We worked on getting her calmer and more supple while she worked through the test we were given. I luckily had prior experience as my dressage coach managed to organise multiple horses for me to

sit on and practice the test on, as if I were at the competition itself.

This helped me prepare mentally as well as physically. In terms of how the competition works, the top four Junior Equitation riders from 2017 Junior champs and their horses qualify for the Philip Smith Memorial Championship which is run over two days. Phase one on the first day being the Dressage Test and Phase two the showjumping. All 4 individuals have to ride their own as well as each other’s horses in both phases. It tests each rider’s skill, style, talent and most importantly the correctness and versatility of their riding. For me the hardest part of the competition is that you only get two minutes to get used to the horses before performing the dressage test.You get to feel its trot, canter, maybe practice a movement and next thing you know it’s time up and you have to perform to the best of your ability. I must say that I loved every minute!”

Yvonne Bolton and Shelly Beckbessinger would like to extend their sincere thanks and appreciation to Nissan and Kyalami Park Club for inviting them to showcase the 2018 Philip Smith Memorial Equitation Championship. The invitation to showcase this prestigious event at the ever popular Nissan Easter Festival was a truly golden opportunity to achieve a lot more welldeserved exposure for this unique Championship.

“This Championship has continued to be managed throughout the last 18 years as a completely independent competition,

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Tegan Bruyns jumping - Winner of the Mark White Nissan Philip Smith Equitation - Photo credit Denford Studios

supported by the South African Equitation Association,” says Yvonne Bolton. “Due to its autonomy the organizers have been in the fortunate position to have enjoyed the freedom to have the competition judged by some of South Africa’s great instructors and top horsemen in their own right. This year was no exception with the Flatwork Judges being Gregory Goss, Gill Taylor and Claire Webb, whilst the Jumping phase had Mandy Johnstone, Nicole Horwood and Ronnie Healey to judge their performance.”

“Originally the four competitors included Daniella Machine, winner of the 2017 SA Individual Equitation Championship, however, she eventually had to decline our invitation. This was due to receiving an incredible offer to jump and compete in Europe for a South African connection over there. Her place was taken by the 5th Prize Winner from 2017,Tegan Bruyns, our worthy winner of the 2018 Philip Smith Memorial Equitation Championship. Despite the fact that there are only 4 competitors, the Championship requires around 20 – 25 officials and every year it is the responsibility of the organizers to select the venue and the judges. Then there is the ordering of the Medals, Gifts for the officials, Mementoes for the coaches and finally the arranging of the Luncheon, which follows after the Flatwork phase. This occasion is a way of entertaining all the competitors, their parents and coaches and to thank all our long standing officials for giving of their precious time to assist us year after year. Last but not least we acknowledge, with much gratitude, our patron and sponsor, Mary Slack, who kindly had this championship inaugurated in the memory of Philip Smith. He was a rider, who epitomized the correct and technical aspects of jumping, which is exactly what Equitation strives to produce. Without the on-going support and sponsorship by our patron, this competition would not be possible,” concludes Yvonne.

One of the most exciting events at the Easter Fest is the 6 bar competition, this year shared by Chris van der Merwe and Adriano Brink. Chris tells us about his BB Nissan Polokwane sponsored 56

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Junior Grand Prix 1.35 winner Hannah Garton - Photo credit Denford Studios

horse Capital Castigo; “He’s owned by Henning Pretorius of Captial Stud and is a twelve year old Holsteiner stallion. He is a great horse with huge personality, loves to jump and he is always very proud of himself! He has so much personality but is a sensitive horse and does not do well under pressure so the rider has to be aware of how much pressure he can handle. He is a horse with a huge jump and I knew he had it in him to give the standing record a go. Personally I have not competed in many six bar events , so I am not much of an expert but my personal view on the six bar is to keep your horse in front of your leg and keep your hands up and to keep your horse’s shoulders straight. When the fence went up, I certainly kept my goal in mind as I was focused on clearing the fence, but I must admit that the wait before they rang my bell seemed to take a few minutes. My thoughts were: stay connected, keep your leg on and make sure your timing is perfect. For those wanting to enter the event in the future, my advice would be to see the six bar as a fun event and know the capability of your horse, you have the option to walk away if your horse has jumped well and up to his height limit.”

Winner of the Junior SA Outdoor Grand Prix and the Junior 1.35 Victrix Ludorum, Hannah Garton says that her horse Cleopatra and her were 3rd in SA Champs last year, just having a foot on the tape at the water but were also crowned National 1.35 Victrix Ludorum.

“This year we competed in Presidents Cup where we came fourth and now competed at the Nissan Easter Festival where we had a great show and won the SA Outdoor Grand Prix and the Junior 135 Victor Laudorum. Cleopatra lives up to her name and is a real Queen. She gets grumpy if you don’t bring carrots and you have to greet her first or she gets really upset. She has the longest tongue of any horse I know and loves to slap around her face before feed time! Cleopatra is by Glenn Alme, a Dutch Warmblood that goes back to Nimmerdor. The dam line is of

Ronnie Lawrence on Gillian van Orshof clearing the water jump - Photo credit Equilife

old East European descent. She came from Hilmar Meyer and was imported by Katelyn Le Part a good few years ago. Katelyn produced her and competed very successfully on her. She then sold her to Cinzia Pasteris where they went on to win, amongst other titles, a World Cup Qualifier. I have ridden Cleopatra for a year now and we really have a great partnership. It was quite hard in the beginning because Cleopatra and Cinzia were so in sync and good together. But she is such a giving, lovely horse that she was able to adjust to my way of riding. Cleopatra is not so young anymore so we don’t do too much pre show jumping.

She really knows her job, but the challenge is for me to keep my eye in with a small amount of practice.”

“The first round was really challenging. The track was long and very technical but I had my coach, Ronnie Lawrence with me and he is very thorough when we are walking the course. He gives me lots of confidence. I was most worried about the water because we had a foot on the tape last year at SA Champs. She can also get very quick through the combinations so I have to remember to sit up very tall.The second round was a lot easier probably because it was just six jumps. The competition, being over two rounds, meant that anything can happen and everyone who had jumped clear in the first round was in with a chance.

I think my main competition was Thomas Triggol, Matthew Morrison and Travis Dawson. I couldn’t discount my sister Olivia on Phambile: she had jumped a great first round and if she had jumped a clear second round, I would have had a very difficult jump off because Phambile is really fast.”

“I love the relationship I have with my horses and how they just try so hard to please me. It is this relationship that makes me love showjumping so much. I also love the adrenalin rush. It is such a difficult sport and I think it is so important to enjoy the experience regardless of the result. I love being with my riding friends, we spend so much time together and have loads of

fun. We are all competitive but in a really nice way. The NEF was such fun: I loved watching all the fun classes and my sister and I test drove the Nissan Qashqai. It is a really great car with so many extra features. I am really hoping my dad likes it too *hint*. I would like to thank my Dad for always supporting me (he is my biggest and only sponsor) and my Mum for making sure that the horses are happy and healthy. Ronnie Lawrence is the most amazing coach and without him and his professional outlook I would not have been able to grow like I have. He is so consistent, calm and awesome. Lastly, a huge thank you to our grooms Jowel and Osman for all the hours they spend looking after our horses and turning them out so beautifully.They are an important part of our team and our success.”

Multiple Grand Prix winner Nicole Horwood had nothing but praise for another wonderful show in which she was most pleased with all of her steeds; “I’m very happy with both of my young 1m30 horses as they were very consistent throughout the show with Mark White Nissan Capital Look at Me winning the 1m35 Champs after a 4 month breeding program break. The tracks were kind but testing and produced the correct results. We are lucky to have Kate building at these shows, with all her International exposure she has proven to be of an International standard. My goals are to get my young horses jumping in the 1m40 classes by the end of the year as well as to be consistent in the World Cup Series.

The atmosphere at the Nissan Easter Show is always so festive: It’s great fun watching the top riders compete in the fun classes as well as all the other entertainment that takes place.The Easter egg hunt is a real highlight for the kids and it’s great that children and juniors get to compete at the same show as the adults.This draws the crowds and gives the children an opportunity to see the top riders competing at the highest level. All round world class in my opinion!”

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TEAM NISSAN SHOW JUMPING

KNOW YOUR TEAM Written for and on behalf of KPC by Caroline Malan – The PR Machine.

Affectionately known as B, Lor, Os, Li and Chey; the Team Nissan Show Jumping team took some much needed time out and told us of their individual plans as we head into the second half of the year.

BARRY TAYLOR 1. Full name of each of your horses that you’re competing on for 2018 - any horses injured or all going well?

Counter Attack, Cody Island, Companeiro’s Con, Callaho Victory Forever and a new GP horse that came out of quarantine in May named Dicardo.Touch wood no injured horses now.

2. Goals for 2018?

Try and do well in the world cups and hopefully win one this year.The SA Derby and SA Champs are always important.

3. Highlight for you as a rider in 2017?

My highlight for 2017 was finishing in the top 5 riders in SA. Also being placed in 4 World Cups.

4.What is the one thing you want to focus on improving in your riding this year?

I am always trying to improve my riding and to produce the best horses that I can.

5.What horse are you most excited about this year and why?

My new horse Dicardo: He is my future GP horse.

6. How has 2018 been for you thus far – biggest achievements / placings/ improvements thus far?

2018 President Cup finishing 5th with no jumps down only time faults.

7.What is the biggest show for you personally in the year and what are your goals for that show?

The 2 Nissan shows (Nissan Easter Festival and Nissan Winter Classic) are important for us. We head to Shongweni in June so hopefully do well there.

8. How do you plan on making 2018 your best yet?

My goal is for team Nissan and Farnham to be really successful.

9. How do you manage to motivate yourself every day – and how do you manage to get back on after a fall.

Nothing motivates me more than to get up and train a super young horse and see it grow. And I have a few of those.

LIAM STEVENS 1. Full name of each of your horses that you’re competing on for 2018 - any horses injured or all going well?

Nissan Wanda, Nissan Esperanto, Nissan Galina, Nathan Van de Ultrahoewe, Quintino and Capital Charisma.They are all in full work and going well.

2. Goals for 2018?

My goal on Wanda and Quintino is to be competitive in the SA Derby, as well as the South African Championship and World Cup Series with the Nissan WCQ in Shongweni being of extra importance.The rest are youngish horses in production.

3. Highlight for you as a rider in 2017?

The SA Derby: Wanda jumped a cracking round with only a foot in the water. We had a good ticket (4th or 5th).

4.What is the one thing you want to focus on improving in your riding this year?

Consistency: try to improve my overall performance.

5.What horse are you most excited about this year and why?

That’s a difficult one to answer as I think I am equally excited about a few of them. Quintino looks like he could be getting ready for the Derby which would be great. Wanda feels as good as ever at 15 years old and I’m really excited about Nissan Galina, she is a half-sister to Nissan Wanda and is showing tremendous potential.

6. How has 2018 been for you thus far – biggest achievements / placings/ improvements thus far?

Stokkiesdraai was a good show for me. Wanda and I had 1 pole down in both the GO and WCQ, placing 8th in the World Cup. I am really happy with her, but will be looking to improve on that for Shongweni. Quintino and I jumped our first 1.40 Riders tour Grand Prix also with only 1 down: I am super happy with how our partnership is forming.

7.What is the biggest show for you personally in the year and what are your goals for that show?

The Nissan WCQ in Shongweni. I would really like to be in the mix in that World Cup, it’s a great show with fabulous support and important for Team Nissan to do well.

8. How do you plan on making 2018 your best yet?

I have the best string that I’ve had and there are some experienced campaigners, so with some hard work and dedication, I am hoping to show some really good results.

9. How do you manage to motivate yourself every day – and how do you manage to get back on after a fall.

My horses motivate me.There is always something to improve on and nearly always another big show around the corner. Building up for a class or a specific event keeps you thinking and gets you out of bed in the morning.

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CHEYENNE DE BEER 1. Full name of each of your horses that you’re competing on for 2018 - any horses injured or all going well?

Nissan Colombias Luigi di Cantero and Nissan Street Rebel. I am also competing on Florentino and Top Qui for the foreseeable future. No new horses planned for the moment but will see what happens as the year progresses.

2. Goals for 2018?

My goals for 2018 include taking my young horse Luigi up the grades, getting him jumping confidently and comfortably in the 1.20m classes and slowly building it up from there. I am also really hoping to qualify for the Youth Olympic Games.

3. Highlight for you as a rider in 2017?

A highlight for me in 2017 was winning the Philip Smith Memorial Equitation Championships. I loved every minute of competing in that Championship. It was an incredible, once in a lifetime opportunity for me and a fantastic learning curve that has benefited my riding in many ways.

4.What is the one thing you want to focus on improving in your riding this year?

I would really like to improve my consistency and accuracy on my young horse Luigi.

5.What horse are you most excited about this year and why?

I’m so excited to get going with Luigi this year. He is in excellent condition and working so well at home. He has built up some confidence and should be exceptional in the higher grades. I’m really looking forward to his future!

6. How has 2018 been for you thus far – biggest achievements / placings/ improvements thus far?

2018 has been a rollercoaster of a year for me, but so far I am very happy with how my horses have competed and performed over the last couple shows. I have had some really wonderful, confident rounds, no big achievements but I am working towards them slowly and steadily.

7.What is the biggest show for you personally in the year and what are your goals for that show?

For me the biggest show of the year would be SA Champs as well as the Nissan sponsored shows down in Shongweni. I am hoping to have at least one horse in the open classes for each of those shows and I’m just going to try my best to get the best results possible.

8. How do you plan on making 2018 your best yet?

This year I am putting extra time into my riding. I am practicing hard and working even harder to try and improve as many areas of my riding as possible and to try broaden my knowledge on horses and the sport.

9. How do you manage to motivate yourself every day – and how do you manage to get back on after a fall.

There’s a quote that states that before an arrow can be shot forward it must first be pulled back. I use that to keep myself motivated when times get tough and it just reminds me to keep pushing through because the good times are just around the corner. Everyone makes mistakes and everyone has bad days, it’s a big part of our lives. As long as the good days outweigh the bad there is always something to look forward to.

LORETTE KNOWLESTAYLOR 1. Full name of each of your horses that you’re competing on for 2018 any horses injured or all going well?

Callaho’s Sampras, Callaho Cento’s Boy, Nissan Farnham Rhythm of the Wind, Nissan Epsom Emma, Callaho Coneisha, Nissan Farnham Go for Gold, Nissan Lakea.

Nissan Lakea is on rest and I’m hoping to start her again in June.

2. Goals for 2018?

Funnily enough this year I have no specific win in mind, or even my usual ‘top 5 ranking’, or ‘best lady rider in the country’ wish. My goal is to enjoy what I’m doing, do it to the best of my ability and the success will come on its own.

3. Highlight for you as a rider in 2017?

2016/2017 were rough years health and injury-wise that I didn’t get to ride much.

4.What is the one thing you want to focus on improving in your riding this year?

My body on landing after the fence.

5.What horse are you most excited about this year and why?

Callaho’s Sampras has been standing at the Callaho Warmblood stud on breeding duty during my absence, so I can’t wait to get him back up to the 1.40m classes (until January this year he was off due to my ill health - since around August/September 2016). He is an exceptionally talented little stallion and I adore him!

6. How has 2018 been for you thus far – biggest achievements / placings/ improvements thus far?

2018 has been good so far at the national title shows with 2 victor ludorum awards at the Nissan Easter Fest and winning 4 open classes there.

Stokkiesdraai was a fantastic show for me too riding Bryan Meyer’s Caspar and winning the Stokkiesdraai 1.50m Grand Prix. I won 2 of the 4 open classes at the KZN derby show (I didn’t compete in the actual derby class) I won the RnR Riders Grand Prix 1.40m/1.45m at the 1st World Cup show of the 2018 series.

7.What is the biggest show for you personally in the year and what are your goals for that show?

Each big national show is a biggie for me at the moment, as I’m trying to establish my younger string, produce the more established into a level up from their current grade and make another Grand Prix horse, as Catwalk 22 is now in Europe.

8. How do you plan on making 2018 your best yet?

I’m not putting any pressure on myself - at the moment I’m just enjoying my riding so much and enjoying the new horses I have to ride.

9. How do you manage to motivate yourself every day – and how do you manage to get back on after a fall.

I’ve had so many falls over the years it’s like water off a ducks back but seriously with ill health and injuries over the 2016/2017 season I’ve had enough time off that I’m so motivated to ride each day, as I have missed it so much and really appreciate being healthy and able to ride and compete again.

OSCAR NCUBE 1. Full name of each of your horses that you’re competing on for 2018 - any horses injured or all going well?

Horses are Callaho Le Padino, and Bucato. I might look for some young ones, we’ll see!

2. Goals for 2018?

I’ve opened my new yard in Kyalami, so my goal for this year to make a success of it!

3. Highlight for you as a rider in 2017?

I got a great horse from the Jansen family, called Bucato. Also producing a horse from young, to take him open level.

4.What is the one thing you want to focus on improving in your riding this year?

I’ve got to focus on getting a consistent tempo to the jumps!

5.What horse are you most excited about this year and why?

I’ve got super horses, but definitely Callaho Le Padino because I want to see how far his talent goes, maybe going up a level - time will tell!

6. How has 2018 been for you thus far – biggest achievements / placings/ improvements thus far?

It’s been great so far! Horses are all riding well, each have had their super placings. My motivation for my riding, has improved the most!

7.What is the biggest show for you personally in the year and what are your goals for that show?

The biggest show for me is the Nissan Easter Festival. My goal every year is to be consistent with my rounds, and give my horses the best rides.

8. How do you plan on making 2018 your best yet?

Well, working hard and training hard is number one! “Teamwork makes the dream work!”

9. How do you manage to motivate yourself every day – and how do you manage to get back on after a fall.

What motivates me the most is that every day is different and there’s always something new to discover within each horse, I’m always learning something new!

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Home of Tjalf 443 ‘Sport’ Wierd 409 & Friso fan S. Vb Star ‘Sport’ www.doorndraaistud.co.za

Marlise Botes +27 83 263 7800 botesm@mweb.co.za

Hanika van Doorndraai . D: Wanika G. Stb S: Friso fan S. ‘Sport’, DS: Ritse 322 DOB: 19/1/2018 For a full list of horses for sale contact Marlise Botes on 083 263 7800 SPORTING HORSE Issue 35 60

For Sale

Sybren van Doorndraai Bb1 Vb H. D: Pandora van Doorndraai Bb1 Star Crown S: Tjalf 443 ‘Sport’, DS: Friso fan S. ‘Sport’ DOB: 9/12/2013 Full brother of Adelprag Orlando van Doorndraai. Excellent Dressage prospect

Home of Tjalf 443 ‘Sport’ Wierd 409 & Friso fan S. Vb Star ‘Sport’ www.doorndraaistud.co.za

Marlise Botes +27 83 263 7800 Issue 35 SPORTING HORSE 61 botesm@mweb.co.za

On the Podium from left to right: Mikaela Bos / Tegan Bruyns / Caitlin Moyle In Front: Judges Gregory Goss / Mandy Johnstone / Tanya Gable

2018 PHILIP SMITH MEMORIAL EQUITATION CHAMPIONSHIP

T

he competitors who qualified for the 2018 Philip Smith Memorial Equitation Championship included three riders from the Western Cape namely Mikaela Bos, Tanya Gable and Caitlin Moyle.

Tegan Bruyns was the sole competitor from Gauteng and replaced Daniella Machine, who reluctantly declined the invitation due to being offered a wonderful opportunity to compete in Europe.

All these riders are instructed by some of our most esteemed South African equestrian coaches with Rainer Korber being the Jumping Coach of our final winner, Tegan Bruyns, whose Dressage Coach is Lilian Moller. The other three competitors also boasted the likes of Judy Louw, Larissa Williams, Debbie

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By Shelly Beckbessinger | Photos by Denford Studios Slater and Shannon Wyndham-Quin, all well known instructors in their particular disciplines.

The Philip Smith Memorial Equitation Championship was extended an unexpected invitation this year to be included in the Nissan Easter Festival, without question the largest and most popular Horse Show in South Africa. This request came about through an innovative suggestion from Barry Taylor to the major equestrian sponsor, Nissan South Africa, as he felt that this unique Championship would receive a lot more well deserved exposure at this premier event. This was a truly golden opportunity and sincere thanks are extended from the organisers to both Nissan and Kyalami Park Club for their generosity. In addition, our grateful appreciation also goes out to the numerous officials, who have given of their precious time to assist us over the past 17 years.

Caitlin Moyle riding her Flatwork

Tanya Gable riding a Jumping Round

Tanya Gable / Caitlin Moyle / Tegan Bruyns / Mikaela Bos

Competitors Tanya Gable and Mikaela Bos found themselves under additional pressure, when literally at the very last minute, because of unavoidable circumstances, they found themselves without a mount to compete on. However, in true Equitation style and due to the kind intervention of Laverne Machine and Lynne McLaren they were loaned horses with whom they had to forge a partnership in a matter of days. This surely emphasises the ethos of the discipline, that a rider should be competent on any horse!!

The flatwork test, designed by Dominey Alexander, provided a flowing but technical assessment of the competitor’s ability to ride movements requiring quick thinking and accuracy. This section was judged by Gregory Goss, fresh from judging at the Windsor Horse Show, Claire Webb, who has produced numerous successful horse and rider combinations and Gill Taylor, a product of the Spanish Riding School in Vienna. Both Claire and Gill have produced winners of this event.

The scores after the flatwork were incredibly close and meant the competitors had all to ride for the following day. Even though the standard of the jumping was a little lower than it has been in the past, the four younr women rode their heart out in the daunting Bob Charter arena. This section was again judged

by leading equestrians in their own right – Mandy Johnstone, multiple Derby winner, Ronnie Healy, who campaigned successfully overseas and Nicole Horwood, who has won numerous Showjumping titles.

This year we were most fortunate to have the most incredible feedback from all the competitors and some of their comments follow: Tanya Gable told us that “In preparation for the competition she tried to ride as many different horses as her friends would allow her and also started to practice the more complex flatwork movements required on her own horse.

She said the beauty about preparing is that you learn to adjust to different horses, which also helped me, when it turned out that I would be using a loaned horse for the actual event.”

Caitlin Moyle also got ready by trying to ride as many different horses as possible. She said “I also competed in a few dressage shows to improve my flatwork and practised the old Philip Smith Tests that were made available to the competitors. Then when the 2018 Flatwork Test was sent to everyone, I rehearsed both by myself and in all of my lessons.”

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Mikaela Bos on Franlaren Etoile du Soir

Gregory Goss with his Secretary, Ceri von Ludwig

The Officials: Marion Clough / Vee Laros / Gregory Goss / Ceri von Ludwig /Claire Webb/Judith Harrison / Shelly Beckbessinger / Gill Taylor / Yvonne Bolton at the Luncheon.

Tegan Bruyns on Hidden Pleasure negotiating the Gymnastic

Tegan Bruyns, our Winner, when approached, told us that the hardest part of the competition was the fact that the riders were only given 2 minutes to get used to the new horses before performing their Flatwork Test. She said “You get to feel it’s trot, canter and maybe practice one movement and the next thing you know your time is up and you need to perform to the best of your ability.”

Tegan also enthused about the prize for the Winner – “The trip is a once in a lifetime opportunity. It allows the winner and their Coach to travel overseas to attend a prestigious show jumping event of their choice. I will, forever, be grateful for this trip, which I know is going to be an incredible experience.”

Mikaela Bos was so excited as 2017 was her first year in Open Equitation and she is only fifteen years old. So she felt that she had exceeded all her goals by qualifying third in the SA Junior Individual Equitation Championship. As a result, Mikaela, qualified for the pinnacle of Equitation excellence, the Philip Smith Memorial Equitation Championship.

Mikaela continued “My wonderful horse, Royal Insignia, wasn’t able to travel to Johannesburg and I was in a panic to find a horse to compete on. However, Shannon Wyndham-Quin,

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my Jumping and Equitation Coach, through her friends made contact with Lynne McLaren, who loaned me Franlaren Etoile du Soir. I had to immediately call him Frankie, as he was so honest and gentle.

This has to be the best competition ever and I can only thank all the people involved. Mrs Mary Slack for her vision and sponsorship of the Philip Smith, Nissan for allowing us to be part of the Nissan Easter Festival vibe – it was incomparable.

Then there were all the Judges, the compassionate stewards, the officials and caterers, not forgetting Barry Taylor, Yvonne Bolton and Shelly Beckbessinger, who made this event happen.

My fellow competitors – it was an honour to compete with you and last but not least, Frankie – without him I wouldn’t have been there. My thanks too to Lynne McLaren and her wonderful FranlarenTeam and also to Chad Cunningham, who runs the great Equitation clinics in Cape Town. My amazing coaches, Shannon Wyndham-Quin and Debbie Slater – you made it easy for me to take this challenge on!! Finally to my family, who support me through all my horsey madness – you’re the best!!!

Tegan, congratulations on your wonderful win and I am so looking forward to trying for the 2019 competition!”

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Nicola Sime-Riley on El Paso – 2017 DERBY WINNER

By Caroline Malan | Photos by Jacqui S Photography

THE SA DERBY THE BEST OF THE BEST

We hear from some of the industry’s best ahead of the prestigious SA Derby presented by black, which will once again be held at the Kyalami Park Club from 26 – 30 September 2018.

T

his year promises to be the best yet with top class equestrian action joining forces with the glitz and glamour of the Sunday “Spring in the Hamptons” dress code theme as well as an official after party good enough to be a stand-alone event!

We chatted to top showjumper Barry Taylor, Derby course designer Ryan Sander, Show director Heather Mpofu, Events extraordinaire Greg Walsh and the President of the Showing Association of South Africa. Here’s what they had to say.

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Four time SA Derby winner and Team Nissan Show Jumping captain Barry Taylor tells us about the last time he won Derby which was in 2004 on Porsche SA Avalanche; “I won on him in 2003 as well. Avalanche was the best Derby horse I ever had: He jumped the Derby with great ease and that year he was in top form the whole year, winning the SA Championships as well.”

In 2000 Barry won on Fubu Sunday’s Eagle, who he says was the most genuine, trying horse; “The year he won was the first year that the Derby had moved to Kyalami Equestrian Park. It rained so hard they thought of cancelling the Derby, in fact if it was today

Barry Taylor riding Nissan Catwalk 22

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Jade Hooke riding A New Era

they definitely wouldn’t have jumped. I remember going to the dyke barely able to see it because it was raining so hard. Sundays Eagle was never the soundest so I think the wet soft conditions were in his favour.”

Barry’s plans for this year are not yet cast in stone, “Counter Attack never jumps his best in the Derby arena so I don’t plan to jump him, but the way he is jumping I might give it a go on him one more time. I have a horse of Neriske Prinsloo’s (Equistro van der Mispelaere) who I am riding which I think could be a great Derby horse if he is not sold by then. Counter and I have a relationship that is unique: I think he is me in a horse: We are just best mates and we have our disagreements but we just click.

It’s taken 2 years to get to this consistency in his performances and it is getting the whole puzzle together in terms of soundness, mileage, training and all-round partnership.The Derby crowds are great and it builds the vibe.The event is unique, and winning it has kick-started many careers and if you meet anyone in the street and you say “I ride horses,” the first question they have is ‘Have you won the Derby?’.You can win 10 World Cups but it doesn’t mean anything against winning one Derby! What I would like to see going forward is to develop the whole Derby week – not just Derby day: There are so many activities around the Derby week which people don’t know about, such as the Dressage Derby, the

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Mini and Micro Derby’s etc - these are all over, and above all the Derby parties which are fantastic!”

SA Derby course designer Ryan Sander says that his first responsibility is to make sure that the event runs to time; “As this is the biggest spectator event of the year,time is of utmost importance. I must also set the track in accordance with the standard of the horses and riders participating, and also make it an interesting and exciting event for the spectators: always keeping the safety of the horses and riders in mind. The standard of the competition is judged and determined by the qualifying classes leading up to the main Derby event. I am building for the 1.35m, 1.40m and 1.50m classes for the entire show, with the qualifying classes leading up to the Derby incorporating various aspects of the main Derby event. In this way I will be trying to build the confidence of both horses and riders. In order to build for this level of competition, the course designer needs to be of a wellestablished and high level calibre. Traditionally top South African course designers get the opportunity to build for this prestigious event for 3 consecutive years.”

Explaining the course to us, Ryan says that it consists of 18 obstacles; “Some of which are specific only to the Derby track, for example the devil’s dyke, road crossing, giant steps, stile and

Ronnie Lawrence riding Gillian van Orshof

course I remain prepared for any eventuality. At the beginning of the show there is always that sense of ‘Have I done enough, have I prepared enough and what could go wrong?’ – all of which does sometimes get to me. Trying to give the public good value for their money is always a challenge as you never know until the end if the spectators and the riders had a great time. Not forgetting our in-house systems that always seem to get the Derby ‘gremlins’ and stop working, which definitely adds more stress to the team!

I love the glitz and glam coupled with the most amazing horses and our top riders! After all the hard work has been done and we parade the winners from the Dressage and Showing Derby’s as well as the Jumping Mini and Micro Derby, we then sit down to watch the best combinations of horses and riders jump the 1.50m Derby presented by black: And there is always a massive Show Director Heather Mpofu says she has multiple responsibilities; sense of achievement and pride within me. We expect roughly “I have to make the schedules and ensure that the rules indicated 500 horses across the 3 disciplines i.e show jumping, showing and are up-to-date and apply to each and every competition. In dressage for this event. I would like to extend a special thanks to conjunction with the disciplines, we identify all possible scenarios Jeanette Schultz and Wayne O’Gomann. These two are always and ensure that we have a solution beforehand. Then there is there to lend a hand and know when I’m at my breaking point the actual production of the timetables as well as ensuring that I and come to the rescue. Of course I must also thank the KPC have a team of qualified personnel to handle all the different roles EXCO members for their guidance and assistance and let’s not involved with the running of the show. Once the show starts I forget all the officials as this show wouldn’t be possible without get involved in ensuring that all arenas are running smoothly and them! I will also work closely with Sue Cook from Showing SA: timeously, everyone is accounted for and playing their role and of she is a godsend and Showing SA owes a lot of gratitude to her of course the daunting Derby bank with a vertical of planks two strides after it. The course is 1000m long and is ridden at 400 meters per minute with a time allowed of 150 seconds. It is a very long flowing track, with time a definite factor. Because of the length of the track, both horses and riders tend to tire and lose concentration towards the end: horses and riders both need to be super fit. In the event of bad weather, the heights of some of the jumps may be altered, as the safety of both horse and rider is of paramount importance. If the going becomes dangerous, some of the jumps may be altered or substituted. This will be my third year of building this course and depending on the horse and rider combinations and how they perform in the qualifying classes will determine the severity of the course.”

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Ryan Sander, SA Derby course designer

KEY EVENT DETAILS: 26 – 30 September 2018 at Kyalami Park Club.

Feature Event: South African 1.50m Derby final: 12:00, Sunday 30 September 2018.

Official After Party: 18:00, Sunday 30 September 2018.

Social media: Twitter, Instagram, Facebook: @TheSADerby.

Website: www.thederby.co.za All ticketing options can be seen on the website.

Show Director Heather Mpofu

are not necessarily huge but are certainly of the highest quality.

The classes feature the five core competitions: Show Hack, Show Hunter, Show Riding Horse, Working Riding Horse and Working Hunter and culminate in the Award of the S.A. Derby Show Horse; S.A. Derby Working Riding Horse & S.A. Derby Working Hunter.

However the Derby features a class which is unique to this event, the Derby Compleat Horse which has five phases: the tack, turnout and conformation mark, ride by the judge with each horse G&G Productions CEO Greg Walsh is no stranger to the assessed on its schooling and manners, a working riding horse equestrian game having competed at the highest level in children’s test and then for the top 15 a specially written Dressage test and juniors, he now also finds himself engaged to two time SA and a show jumping round. On Sunday the top five competitors Derby winner, Jade Hooke. Greg is beyond excited by the (based on marks throughout the event) have the opportunity partnership;“I’ve attended at least 10 Derby’s and am proud to to perform a free test in the Bob Charter Arena. Each test has have my company partner with and strategize for something its own theme, usually set to music and is judged by three judges so close to my heart. We intend to bring all of our combined on style and schooling. Last year’s Compleat Horse winner learning and experience to create a sensational SA Derby 2018, was Natalie Hogg riding Gillian Friend’s Mailon, who also won presented by black. Our ticket sales have been through the roof the Working Riding Horse Derby. The Working Hunter Derby thus far, so I strongly urge eager fans to purchase theirs today as was won by Caryn Van Der Merwe riding Tony Pappalardo’s we fully expect a full house come 2pm on 30 September 2018!” Brandenburg Crescent Moon whilst the Show Horse Derby was won by the magnificent Callaho Lissabon ridden by Clare Marcus.

National President of the Showing Association of South Africa, All our top riders strive to win at Derby and every year sees new Sue Cook says that The S.A. Derby is regarded as one of the two combinations, so it is impossible to predict who will shine this year but I do wish each and every competitor a thoroughly enjoyable major Showing Shows in the S.A.S.A. Calendar for Adult Riders; “Entries are limited to Open Riders which means that numbers five days of competition!” and so do I. SASJ Rep Di Baxter has a wealth of knowledge and I have learnt so much from her. My assistants, Agnes Phiri and Unathi Moyo: they are my strength and they always go beyond their call of duty, no task is beneath them. This year I am excited to work with Kerry Beyerly who runs KPC Dressage, she is a vibrant and colourfully spirited individual who always brings heaps of laughter to the team as soon as she walks into the room.”

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Lia Erasmus Showing Hart E Endeavour at Horse of the Year.

COMPETING WITH SA MINIATURE HORSES

THE MIGHTY SCHOOLMASTER

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By Paul Couzyn

hen we hear “schoolmaster” we automatically think of an older bombproof patient pony that has been a kind teacher for numerous riders. These horses are scarce, treasured and much loved. Most of us have known

pony to you. He continues as your multi discipline school master and delivers as the great educator.

It need not be what springs to mind when we think “Schoolmaster.” Consider a Miniature horse as an ideal school Master? A horse with the temperament of a horse without the niggles of a pony. One that is right sized for the first time young enthusiast and able to double as your best friend and teacher. A horse that is multi-dimensional. A horse that starts off as your lead-rein horse, and after that graduates to showing in hand. A horse you can drive, jump in hand, show in hand and one that takes you through the ranks when it comes to learning about grooming, feeding, turn out, and show etiquette. A horse that will develop your confidence with regard to every aspect of horsemanship and stands well below a meter. A horse that you can look in the eye when you yourself are two bricks and a tickey high. You are bound to outgrow him before you weigh 20 Kg, but then he becomes more than a has been hand me down lead rein

Historically horses have been so many things to man. They have taken us to war, helped us become agriculturists. They have been a source of transport, sport horses, work horses, draught animals, race horses, even status symbols. Owned and loved by Kings and the common man alike.

and loved one. I did.

This is why equine assisted therapy is gaining in popularity. The role and contribution of the horse as an emotionally savvy receptive and interactive communicator and companion is being acknowledged and becoming more common. Horses are now regarded by some as healers.

The new era of the horse has dawned, an era where the horse interacts as teacher, as mentor and as an equal, rather than as subservient to Man. The horse is now credited as a teacher of emotional dexterity, a contributor to mental fitness, of emotional maturity. In the modern era the horse has also become a companion that teaches us a way of thinking, and a self-awareness that hones our communication skills. These things have not been thought of before as taught by a horse. Not because the horse was an unwilling teacher but because man has been an unreceptive pupil.

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Champion Free Jumper Copy Cat VTS. From left- Sponsor Mindi Hunt of Tork Craft, our Dutch judge Michael Grijmans, Deon Augustyn SAWHS Chairman, Verity Combrink and Taryn Combrink

SA WARMBLOOD, TORK CRAFT,

PRESIDENTS CUP FREE JUMPING

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By Frances Cheboub, Breed Manager SAWHS | Photos by Jeb Images

he Free jumping was held at Maple Ridge Equestrian Farm on 20 March, over the main week end of the Presidents Cup. A lovely setting in the mountain side arena that overlooks the undulating hills, saw around 45 competing young horses in the 2,3, and 4 year old age groups.

Bright gazebos in the Tork Craft’s trade mark red and yellow stood on the long side of the cage. Maple ridge staff are by now experts at putting up the 40 x 20 metre structure.

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This event enables breeders and owners to showcase young stock. The spectators had prime viewing from along the bank.

A great variety of blood lines were seen. Locally licensed stallions standing in South Africa found in these pedigrees are: Clarinius Holst (Contender / Capitol I) brought in by Frank Dittmann of Brandenburg Stud; Ulano van Lobos BWP (Capital I / Lys de Darmen) wonderfully bred and underutilized as a stallion; For Joy Hann (For Pleasure / Don Carlos) imported by Callaho and his progeny

Kellow Supersonic

Eagles Lusaka

already in the Open classes; Capital’s Don Cumarco BWP (Cumano / Darco) has proved himself time and again in the competition ring; Consuelo Holst (Corofino / Landgraf I) although Namibian based, is very popular; Ubergabe BWP (Coronado / Wendekreis) good jumping lines and Lassiter Holst (La Capo / Coriander). Classic old blood seen in the pedigrees included Sebastian KWPN from Brandenburg Stud, Wachmann III, Mayfair Wunderbar and Dolerit.

The use of imported frozen semen is seen in progeny sired

by Spartacus Hann (Stakkato / Grannus), Upgrade KWPN

Mythos Danburite

Cornerstone Central Perk

(Heartbreaker / Pilot), Copyright Hann (Monte Bellini / Diplomatin / Trapper), Quality Time Holst (Quantum / Cantus / Mowgli) showing that high performing overseas stallions are of great interest to South Africa. Mare lines reflecting imported frozen semen include Larino KWPN, Satisfaction Hann, Crusador Holst.

Wonderful prize money and gifts were given to the winners by our long time sponsor Tork Craft Power tool accessories and we thank Maple Ridge Equestrian Farm for hosting the event.

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Two Year olds 1st: Kellow SUPERSONIC (SAW) filly, DoB 11 Sept 2015 owner: Kellow Stud

Sire : Spartacus Hann (Stakkato/ Grannus) Dam: Kellow Lust SAW (Larino/ Clarinius)

2nd: Cornerstone CENTRAL PERK (SAW) colt, DoB 29 Sept 2015 owner : Anthon Hoek

Sire: Ceblesse BWP (Darco/ Voltaire) Dam: Cornerstone Lady Loxton von Labos SAW (Ulano van Lobos/ Fedor)

3rd : Diamond BELMONTE (SAW) colt, Dob 20 Sept 2015 owner: Arnold Botha

Sire: Belmondo BWP (Toulon/ Lys de Darmen) Dam: Greys Novena xx

4th : Kellow LAVA HOUND (SAW) colt, DoB 10 Sept 2015 owner: Genevieve Kruger

Sire: Kellow Laudanum SAW Dam: Kellow Bad Juju SAW (Branic Bellini D’Or/ Clarinius)

5th : Saltash CELTIC WARRIOR (SAW) colt, Dob 3 Oct 2015 owner: Megan Zofka

Sire: Consuelo Holst (Corofino/ Landgraf I) Dam: Callaho Firefly SAW (For Joy/ Ubergabe)

Three Year olds 1st: COPYCAT VTS (SAW) filly, DoB 2 Oct 2014 owner: Megan Tarryn & Verity Combrink

Sire: Copyright Hann (Monte Bellini/ Diplomatin/ Trapper) Dam: Alpha Nadya NWHS (Satisfaction Hann/ Elliodor xx

2nd: Mythos DANBURITE (SAW) colt, DoB 18 Dec 2014 owner: Mythos Stud

Sire : Divine Dream (Zf.Dp) Dam: Cinnabar SAW (Wild Zircon/ Hakahana Akito/ Piaffer xx)

3rd : CHAIN REACTION VTS (SAW) filly, DoB 2 October 2014 owner: Megan Tarryn & Verity Combrink

Sire: Kellow Confession SAW (Crusador /Clarinius/ Fine Edge xx) Dam: Brandenburg Spellbinder SAW (Sebastian/Pyrmont/ Wachmann III)

4th : Adelt CYNERGY (SAW) filly, DoB 16 Jan 2014 owner: Anneke Looke

Sire: Consuelo Holst (Corofino/ Landgraf I) Dam: Ashanti xx (Tilden xx/ Trocodero xx)

4th : Seeis ALCAPRICIO (SAW) filly, DoB 21 Jan 2015 owner: Trish Miles

Sire: Seeis Anatolia NWHS (Don Cumarco/ Conti/ Drosselklang II) Dam: Seeis Alcapriccio NWHS (Capriccio/ Mayfair Wunderbar/ Dolerit)

Four Year olds 1st: Cornerstone QUNU (SAW) mare, DoB 26 Dec 2013 owner: Herman Bekker

Sire: Quality Time Holst (Quantum/ Cantus/ Mowgli) Dam: Centurion Watina SAW (Capriool/ Darco)

2nd: ORIGAN vd Bisschop (BWP) stallion, DoB 16 April 2014 owner: Neriska Prinsloo

Sire: Hunters Scendro Hann (Scendix / Contendro I) Dam: Damira van den Bisschop BWP (Nabab de Reve/ Voltaire)

3rd : Eagles LUSAKA (SAW) stallion, DoB 28 Oct 2013 owner: Mythos Stud, Charne Gerber

Sire: Lassiter Holst (La Capo/ Coriander/ Lord) Dam: Eagles Casablanca (Casanova/Anschluss)

3rd : Omini de Muze (BWP) gelding, Dob 2 May 2014 owner: T & V Combrink

Sire: Vigo D’Arsoulliers BWP (Nabab de Reve/ Fleuri du Manoir) Dam: Uomini BWP (Montebello/ Helios de la Couer)

4th : Paarden IMAN (SAW) mare, DoB 14 Dec 2013 owner: Pieter Swanepoel

Sire: Upgrade KWPN (Heartbreaker/ Pilot) Dam: Benigna VDL KWPN (Flemmingh/Farrington)

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Mandy Johnstone on Lambus, winner of the Brits Nissan World Cup Qualifier at Stokkiesdraai Restaurant and Equestrian Centre

THE “STOKKIESDRAAI” WORLD CUP QUALIFIER SHOW

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By Anne-Marie Esslinger | Photos by Jacqui S Photography

new venue opened a few months ago in Brits, about 80kms north of the Kyalami horsey area. Riders heard on the grapevine that it was going to be fabulous… a spacious Martin Collins surfaced arena, lovely show stables and great sponsored events . SA show jumping inspected the venue and awarded it a World Cup Qualifier title. Riders were excited and entered their horses for one or both of the “warm up” shows schedule,and their feedback was very positive!

Small wonder then that the entries for this WCQ show filled up immediately, as well as show stabling – over 300 stables, each a generous 3,5m x 3,5m. A second arena was offered, also with a fibre/sand surface for the height categories below 1,30m, as well as some chalet accommodation on the premises – all of these were also booked out in a very short space of time by eager contenders in every division.

Owners Nico de Beer and his wife, Nellie, son-in-law, Chris Pretorius and daughter, Mariska, were welcoming and friendly, taking every challenge in their stride.They were efficiently assisted

by Muiren Kok, who built all the stables and many of the other super facilities on offer, Lorraine Peters and Retha van Deventer (show secretaries), and Jodi Wolhuter, show director from KZN. Henning Pretorius of the Capital Stud had also been instrumental in assisting with the set up and planning of the venue and this major titled event.

The 70m x 70m square main arena is surrounded by thatch buildings and grandstands, which create good atmosphere, but spooked some of the horses at first. Nevertheless, visiting German course designer, Stefan Wirth (FEI 3) managed to encourage the very best out of horses and riders through the show, building up to exciting finales in every category.There were about 100 horses in the 1,30m division, 75 horses in the 1,35m, 30 in the 1,40m and about 20 in the 1,50m classes.This meant

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Ian Van Schalkwyk on Kuda Insurance Valanta, winner of the Brits Nissan 1.40m Championship at Stokkiesdraai Restaurant and Equestrian Centre

that the lower Open levels had lots of horses through to very quick jump offs, whilst the top horses and riders were suitably challenged.

The jump material looked festive, with Bronwyn dos Santos having kindly loaned her equipment, and the variety of smart Nissan fences, as well as the Quintin Jansen diamond fence and CWD saddle wall, adding substance and colour to the arena.

Some new 18mm shallower jump cups helped make the poles fall down easier when rubbed.

Riders attending this prestigious show came from Gauteng, KZN, Polokwane, as well as from far afield Cape Town and Port Elizabeth.Very generous goodie bags were donated to the riders

by Midfeeds, who also delivered feed and bedding daily. Kawena gave great goodie bags to grooms of 1st – 3rd in every Open class, as well as popular Iwisa mielie meal. CWD donated a magnificent bridle to the winner of the 1,50m Grand Prix. Western Shoppe supplied valuable gift vouchers. Some beautiful belts were sponsored by Lara Neill of Equestrian Affair, and Biotech awarded 20 headcollars, also going into the super stash of prizes on offer.

Prize money was generous throughout the show!

In the 1,30m division Callaho Lorenzo, the beautiful and flashy Lissabon gelding belonging to Laurence Mowatt, took the honours in the 2 Phase competition as well as coming 3rd in the A2 competition, where Ashlee Hausberger riding the TB gelding, MacArthur Park, took the honours. Chani Swanepoel

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and Reflection jumped the 8 fence Accumulator track with Joker the quickest, whilst the evergreen little Irish hose, Blakeney Boy, piloted by Tracy Davids, speeded round the 1,30m Championship track to take the title. Serenela’s Capital Lord Derby, owned and ridden by Charley Crockart, also impressed with 2 good second places.

The 1,35m division was also very competitive, with Callaho horses, Sampras, Cento’s Boy and Lansink often in the money with their riders Lorette Knowles Taylor and Rainer Korber.

Always a threat against the clock, Jonathan Clarke wasted no time in winning the 1,35m Championship title with Mark and Di Slade’s Jerba van den Biscchop. Lara Neill always goes quick on Opium de Sauge and she won a class, as did Nicole Horwood on the consistent Mark White Nissan’s Capital Look at Me D. In the second arena, ably built by Kate Launder, the 1,20m champion emerged as Rambleholm Czarins with Elana Steenkamp, whilst Paige Goetsch won the junior 1,20m division with Callaho Liberia. The 1,10m Championship was won by Adela Lady Lostris, ridden by Kevin Wessels, whilst Iphama Callaho Lizna with S Baker took the 1,00m Championship, and Jade Coetzee the 90cm Championship on Rotoflo Voigtkirsch Zidane.

But this show wasn’t only about the serious side of show jumping.

On Saturday afternoon an impromptu soccer match was held, with riders and their grooms quickly making up a number of

Lorette Knowles- Taylor and Caspar

Sam Mcintosh and Lets Win

Stokkiesdraai 1.50m Grand Prix

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competitive teams, even taking on a team of officials (big thanks to Regina Hobbs on her nifty “save” from yet another goal by more competent soccer players!) Moving into the evening, a mirror image 1,10m track was set up on either side of a split arena and 16 riders rode against one another in a Speed Pairs competition. This proved to be a mega exciting event, each round faster than the last, with riders going pedal to the metal, incurring seconds added for each pole knocked down. Charley Crockart reigned supreme in each of her pair rounds to win the R10 000 on offer from a speedy Rainer Korber whose horse knocked a couple of extra poles from all the excitement right when it counted.

MARTIN COLLINS, MARTIN COLLINS Logo and POLYTRACK, ECOTRACK AND ACTIV-TRACK are registered trademarks.

Sunday dawned sunny and warm for the main competitions of the show.These were not going to disappoint! Each of the final tracks included some technical lines, a challenging treble combination, and a fairly tight time allowed. The jump off of the 1,40m Championship (Riders’ Grand Prix Tour) was something special to watch. Chris van de Merwe chalked up an economical round which looked like it was going to be hard to be beat – as sometimes happens, the riders who followed him each went quicker and quicker, unbelievably so! Chris had to be satisfied with 4th position, with Andrew Oliff riding his “Pegasus Wealth Management Amazonas” taking 3rd, Stacy-Lee Weston with Weston Farriers Saratoga Maxine, in 2nd spot (this horse and rider combination were the most consistent prize winners in the 1,40m division, also placing 2nd and 3rd in the 1,40m 2 Phase and A2 competitions respectively). Ian van Schalkwyk produced

a scorching clear right at the end, to capture the 1,40m Riders’ GP title with Kuda Insurance Valanta, really back on form after quite a long lay-off.

The arena was then raked and watered and the imposing World Cup Qualifier track set up. Stefan Wirth carefully laid down the poles to ensure each line was how he intended, with a variety of related distances both on the straight, and the right and left reins.

The CWD wall and the diamond fence both stood at 1,60m tall, and 2 of the oxers were at 1,60m wide, whilst the triple bar, away from the entrance gate off the fence was 1,55m high by 1,90m wide. Only fence no. 1 was marginally under 1,50m high. All the other fences were pitched at 1,50m to 1,55m. Of the 21 starters, 6 horses went clear – but only one horse and rider combination were again clear in the second round against the clock – the lovely Lambus (by Landor), new at this level, but always careful and quick, capably ridden by Mandy Johnstone.

Mandy was ecstatic with their win, whilst Nicola Sime Nel, with her trusted partner, Fulvic Connoisseur had to be content with a quick round but unlucky rail for second. Marlene Sinclair with Camaro, filled third spot, showing consistent form after her good second place at the first WCQ at KPC just a few weeks ago.

An exciting finale to a fantastic week of jumping at the Stokkiesdraai inaugural World Cup Qualifier. A huge thank you to the organisers, to the de Beer and Pretorius families and to all the sponsors, officials and staff of Stokkiesdraai, for a fun filled rewarding week of top level sport and entertainment.

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The Golden Reitabzeichen presentation at the Hannoverian Verband in Verden

WHO DARED TO DREAM Text & Photos by Kirsten Wing

Kirsten Wing speaks to South African rider, Laurienne Dittmann Castle of Bellot Equestrian, who has burst onto the European scene with her own Hanoverian, Don Weltino K. Many equestrians around the world feel inspired by the beautiful, glossy pages of magazines covering the European circuit, boasting the highest quality in equine sport. It would then seem somewhat “ditzy” for a small town, South African girl who played ‘Cowboys and Indians’ on her ponies as a child, to dream of rubbing shoulders with some of the sport’s best combinations, in the arenas of Europe. But, that is exactly what’s happened for Laurienne Dittmann Castle.

Sport: The Golden Riding Badge or ‘Deutsche Reitabzeichen’.

This award, given for mastery and success, was bestowed on Laurienne at the Hanoverian Auction in Verden where her mount, Don, had been bought six years prior. Don Weltino K is an enthusiastic and dynamic chestnut gelding, who was made the ‘face’ of the event, with posters and programmes lining halls and the hands of attendees.

It was a glamorous ceremony that felt somewhat surreal, but From humble beginnings, Laurienne has climbed the ladder to certainly made the journey of starting from scratch in Europe, recently be awarded the highest honour in German Equestrian overcoming the challenges, with much blood, sweat and lots

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Belmonti and Banjo “the boss”

Golden Reitabzeichen Award Ceremony in Verden

Belmonti on his way to Grand Prix

of tears, all worthwhile. Featuring her African inspired musical kur, the combination paid tribute to her beginning, featuring a track ‘We Are The Children Of Africa’ opening the auction. The emotion was shared by all and evident on the faces of all friends and family, sharing in the celebration with her.

Ravel 322, now placed and competing with a long-term Bellot Equestrian student in the United Kingdom. Her next is already well on his way, at her base Bellot Equestrian in Saxony. Belmonti, a classically handsome dark bay ‘giant’, is schooling the big tour tests and oozing quality.

However not all moments with the expressive chestnut have gone smoothly. At her recent event when competing at the picturesque red castle of Wiesbaden, Don Weltino K’s enthusiasm to show more than what Laurienne was asking, left her exclaiming after the test, that “in between the crazy, was the best riding feeling ever”, admitting that she is not yet at her destination. And that’s what is so inspiring about Laurienne; she has remained true to herself and humble throughout the highs and lows that this sport invariably brings. The journey is certainly continuous, even for those at the highest level.

Laurienne has never lost her sense of humour, regardless of the challenges in breaking into the European scene. She subscribes her refreshing approach to a natural process of finding and developing her riding identity and personality. “It’s an exciting journey, but it has to be sustainable. It is an organic process in which you need to adapt to each horse, every day. There are no short cuts and you must stay true to your feeling and process”, she says. It is not a topic most glossy pages cover; that of sustainability at the highest level but it is what makes the somewhat unreachable dream, truly attainable. This is something she instils in all her students, empowering and equipping them with the end goal always in sight.

Laurienne’s riding journey started long before the glamour of the big European circuit. She’s known to have said, “if someone had told me all that time ago that I would be riding Grand Prix in Germany, married to Frank, all in the space of 10 years, I would not have believed them”. She certainly has come a long way and accomplished so much and it doesn’t end here; in fact, this is just the beginning of the big league. It’s a journey that she intends to make sustainable, by continuously producing her own mounts, including Don Weltino K known as ‘Don’ or ‘Donny Boy’.

Another self-produced triumph, is her first Grand Prix partner

Laurienne describes her transition into the German riding scene as one which has taken her the best part of a decade to decipher, despite learning the language.

“Don’t forget that I grew up playing ‘Cowboys and Indians’ on scruffy ponies”, she laughs.“When I was a junior I wanted to learn all these fancy sideways things that I thought were quite smart.

My sister had been given a training book, so being a diligent selfdirected student, I read the instructions in the manual, put the

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Kirsten Wing and Ravel Laurienne and Don Weltino K

Don training at home before he became a GP Horse

Frank and Don at CDI XXX in Poland

book on the side and tried it out myself “. She smiles. “When I told the Germans this, they thought I was completely barmy, as this shouldn’t be the way to learn dressage”.

Laurienne remembers with fondness, that she was initially more interested in Polocrosse and Eventing than the classical, dancelike discipline of dressage. She was educated at Girls Collegiate in Pietermaritzburg. As part of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, the area is known as the sport hub of the province. With it being an active equestrian region, it was not surprising, that she came to meet founder and owner of Brandenburg Sport Horse Stud, Frank Dittmann. Whilst working at Brandenburg’s training operation, which at that time was based on the Highveld some 400 kilometers from the Stud in Nottingham Road, Laurienne started to hone her skills for the sport. She learned how to transfer “sideways things” into half passes and produce young horses like Lions River, Lord of the Dance and her very own Ludgar, up the grades.

Frank has became her long-term best friend, self-confessed coach, super-groom and partner throughout her journey. He is actually German by birth. After relocating back to Germany some 10 years ago, due to the health care needed for one of his sons , the newly formed pair decided to make a ‘go of things’ in Europe... and so the European dream began. When they bought the first horses, the World Equestrian Games and Olympics were never ‘on the cards’.They now admit, that they ‘were completely in the dark’ and seemingly on their own. Immigrating with an ill child was already overwhelming for the pair, even before the addition of horses. Laurienne often refers to this period as where she developed her ”stick”. “I must have read the quote many times in my career: you have got to have stick. It is like maturing a good

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wine; it’s hard work and it takes time. But I am not giving up”, she says and I believe her .

Frank and Laurienne are shining examples that with commitment, dedication and a will to succeed, dreams do come true.The pair are the first to encourage all young riders and students in the sport to know that it is not impossible and that the success stories covered in the glossy pages, are not just for magazines.

They actively put this strategy into action, taking great pleasure in both nurturing and inspiring young talent, especially from South Africa. In 2015, they sponsored the winner of the Star Young Rider Dressage Series, to join them at the World Young Horse Championships. I was fortunate to win that series, aboard Christine Sboros’s beautiful chestnut, Dresden On Guard and the rest, as you say, is history. Meeting Frank and Laurienne gave me the break I needed to follow my own dream in Europe. Like them, I too, would like nothing more than to see fellow South Africans succeed abroad.

Maybe one day, Laurienne’s journey will include setting up an Academy for young and aspiring riders; I know it’s something she feels passionately about - unreservedly sharing her knowledge which she has already started to do on her blog. As for now, Laurienne will continue to compete with Don Weltino K, Belmonti and her young horses in the arenas of Europe with her beloved Frank and Jack Russell, Banjo by her side. We will all be watching and willing them on.

For the love of the sport and the development of the individual, it’s all happening for Frank and Laurienne Dittmann.

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