Sporting Horse Magazine Sept/Oct 2016

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Issue 28 SPORTING HORSE

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SPORTING HORSE Issue 28


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

www.tackntogs.co.za

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CONTENTS REGULARS 4 4 6 48 52

Letter from the Editor Advertisers Cover story: Shari Navra Rider Profile: Cinzia Pasteris Yvonne Bolton Horse Profile: Cleopatra Yvonne Bolton

THE TEAM

Johan Blom Editor

Pieter Hugo Managing Director

Marie Chin Advertising Executive

Marguerite le Roux Senior Designer

Gasnat Jaffer Office Manager

Nikki Kellogg USA Sales Executive

LIFESTYLE 12 14

Equestrian Essentials Lifestyle Essentials

THIS ISSUE 20 32 38 40 56 58 63 66 70 73 77 79 81 86 90 93

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Checking out the pedigrees of 2016 Rio Olympic Jumpers Frances Cheboub GFE - Today’s Stallion Owner Aileen Papenfus Arena Grip SA The 2016 Revil World Cup Qualifier Show Anne Marie Esslinger South African Derby 2016 Tabard Equine Lotion Stops Insects Bugging Horses A greater understanding through Instinct Getting to know Oscar Ncube Caroline Malan The Evolution of the Friesian Sport Horse Altie Clark South African Young Dressage Horse Series Simone Howarth Mark White Super League Final Yvonne Bolton Highveld Horse Care Unit Outreach Projects Joanne Pursey The Knabstruppers - A successful breeding system Dr Marna Smith 2016 SA Junior, Children’s and Pony Rider U18 Championships Esla Du Plessis The Pony Rider & Junior SA Equitation Championships 2016 Yvonne Bolton Phenomenal Riding at Hickstead inspires Philip Smith Winner Sylvia Dixon

SPORTING HORSE Issue 28

www.spor tinghor se .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.silver mane .co.za

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

ABOUT THE COVER Cover Photo: T&B Images


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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

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elcome to Issue 28, The Breeders Edition of Sporting Horse Magazine. With 2016 fast coming to a close, looking at what is left to do with the little time left, its excusable to become just a little jittery. We have put together a great issue for you so I won’t keep you long and rather let you get onto the more interesting pages of the magazine.

Caroline Malan spends some time with Oscar Ncube, read all about it on page 66. Yvonne Bolton looks at the fantastic Cleopatra on page 52 and profiles rider Cinzia Pasteris on page 48. Yvonne then reports back on the both the Pony Rider and Junior Equitation Championships on page 90 and the Mark White Super League Final on page 77. The Olympics have come and gone and Brazil has been quite a spectacle. For many it is one of the only opportunities to follow equestrian sport from their living rooms but always a great opportunity for equestrian sport to compete along the mainstream sports. Frances Cheboub takes a closer look at the Rio Olympic Jumpers of 2016 and how they are connected to our local stallions on page 20. Anne Marie Esslinger wraps up the 2016 Revil World Cup Qualifier on page 42 while Esla Du Plessis looking at the SA Junior Champs on page 86. There is a lot more to get through along with a string of breeding help and profiles, so get to it. “The essential joy of being with horses is that it brings us in contact with the rare elements, grace, beauty, spirit, and fire.” ~Sharon Ralls Lemon Enjoy those extra hours of daylight, see you around the arena.

Johan Blom

ADVERTISERS 76 39 92 51 26 37 69 46 13 9 IBC 15 15 43 19 30 OBC 1 45 60 62 55 44 89 59 85 85 20 3 5

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Arco 360 Arena Grip Bartholomeus Klip Cipla Diamond Sport Horses Don Quichotte Doorndraai Friesian Stud Equifox Equimax international Equineonline Equipage Espoir Equestrian Fine&Country Fulvic Health Hummer Iconic Sires Mark White Nissan Midfeeds SA Boerperd Breeders Association Saratoga Stud Skyroo Stud South African Derby 2016 Steenberg T&B Images Tabard The Majestic Knabstrupper Stud The Painted Appaloosa Stud Tork Craft Vtech Western Shoppe

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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COVER STORY

Aristoteles Revil WCQ 2016

Shari Navra & her Tack ‘n Togs Mounts

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hile living in Port Elizabeth, Shari Navra started riding at the age of six, and her love of riding grew from there. After finishing primary school and continuing with her pony riding career, she began home schooling from high school in order to travel out of the Eastern Cape for competitions. In her matric year she moved to Johannesburg permanently,where she still lives today.

created an amazing partnership over the years. Ari has made me who I am as a rider and I know that he is one of those once-ina-lifetime horses!”

Tack ‘n Togs Cupidor is her most recent horse, having only purchased him in January this year. Cupidor is a 9 year old KWPN gelding by Lupicor out of a Heartbreaker mare. When she heard that Cupi was progeny of Heartbreaker she was sold! Having Although not born into a horsey family, she has always been had so much success with Ari, she knew if Cupi was anything extremely blessed and grateful for having a supportive family who like Ari she would love him, and that she did. Cupidor had been enabled her to pursue her passion for horses. In the last few years competing in the International 1.50 and 1.55m classes in Europe. jumping in the Open classes, she has been fortunate enough to Over the week they were in Europe, she must have ridden about have fantastic horses who have helped her succeed in reaching 15 to 20 horses, but as soon as she got on Cupidor and after trotting for 5 minutes, she knew he was the one.Their first proper where she is today. show in South Africa was the Shongweni World Cup Qualifier Shari’s current horses are Tack ‘n Togs Aristoteles and Tack ‘n Togs in June this year. Cupi and Shari placed in all 4 classes, won one Cupidor.Aristoteles is a 16 year old BWP gelding by Heartbreaker 1.35m class and were 3rd in the 1.35m Riders Tour Grand Prix. out of a Nabab De Reve mare. She was lucky enough to purchase Their second show was the Revil World Cup at the end of August, Aristoteles from Lorette Taylor in 2012. They imported him in where they did just as well by winning the first 1.40m class and 2008 and Lorette successfully competed Ari in the 1.50m classes jumping a clear round in our first 1.50m World Cup Qualifier for a couple of years. Says Shari; “Ari is not the easiest horse to together with just one time penalty. “Cupi has adjusted to South ride as he is small and fiery, and at times absolutely impossible! But Africa extremely well and I am very excited about the future with he has taught me everything about jumping in the open classes. this top horse.”she says. He has the biggest heart and always tries his absolute best for me, no matter the circumstances. He is my best friend and we have The highlights of her riding career so far have been winning the

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Cupidor Shongweni WCQ 2016

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COVER STORY

Aristoteles Shongweni WCQ 2016

South African Junior Championships in 2013 and winning the SA Young Rider Outdoor Grand Prix, both with Aristoteles. For the remainder of 2016 she is hoping to have Tack ‘n Togs Cupidor in the 1.50m classes with their main focus on SA Adult Showjumping Championships in November this year. As Aristoteles is older, her goal with him is to keep him sound and jumping mainly in the 1.40m classes, perhaps jumping the 1.50m SA Championships in November if his body permits! Shari is currently in the last year of her Psychology degree, and is hoping to do her Honours degree next year. Balancing studying and competitive riding is a challenge, but to have a degree is of utmost importance to her and is something she is determined to achieve. Being a competitive showjumper, as everybody knows, requires a lot of discipline, says Shari, and as well as exercising her horses every day, she trains in the gym as many days a week as possible to ensure her physical health and well being. Because she is so committed to her horses and spends a lot of time training them and building good relationships, she regards them as her teammates and likes to feel assured that they are “with her” and as committed as she is when they enter the competition arena. Over the years she has had some fantastic instructors who have shared their knowledge and instilled the fundamental basics of what it is to be an equestrian. Currently she is based at Burlington Stables and trains with Anne-Marie Esslinger,who Shari feels has empowered her and been instrumental in the last two years of her success. Anna has helped her not only with the instruction on showjumping, but also on the correct management and care of the horses which she feels is most probably the most important part of being successful. Anna has instilled confidence in her 10

SPORTING HORSE Issue 28

Cupidor Revil WCQ 2016

which in turn lead her to have confidence and trust in her horses. Anna ensures that Shari and her horses are well practiced before competitions and ready for whatever they may face in the arena. Training on the flat with Karen Keller keeps her horses supple and well balanced, giving them an advantage in the showjumping arena. Her horses’ physical and mental well being is something which is extremely important to Shari. They are treated as the top level athletes that they are, and as well as having exercising routines everyday, they are taken to the hydro spa and treated by the physiotherapist and chiropractor regularly. A fantastic sponsorship from Tack ‘n Togs is something Shari really appreciates and she is so proud to be their sponsored rider and on their team.They provide her and her horses with the best tack and apparel, which she believes is instrumental in their competition success.Tack ‘n Togs are associated with Erreplus Saddlery and she rides both of her horses in Erreplus saddles which have made a huge difference to the way they go.“They are much more supple through their backs and I feel a lot more stable and balanced riding in these saddles,”says Shari. In closing, Shari says “I learn something new from Aristoteles and Cupidor every day, and this is what makes this sport so humbling. In order to be successful and stay at the top level you have to have a positive attitude, love what you do, and most importantly love the horses. The ability to block out negative people and accept that things may not always go your way, is an important part of this sport.The horses are my best friends, I treat them as such, and listen to as much as I can understand from them. At the end of the day, what you put in is what you get out. If you want to succeed you cannot pass the buck, the responsibility lies with you. “


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Leather with fabric braided stretch belt and CT clasp.

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SA’s premium online supplier of exclusive European equine fashion and equipment brands. CAVALLERIA TOSCANA LADIES BREATHABLE SWEATER

Elegant and lightweight breathable jacket, with detachable hood

EQUIT M QUILTED WAISTCOAT EQUI-THEME STRIPED SOCKS

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EQUIT M QUILTED WAISTCOAT

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Light quilted waistcoat with full hood. Straight cut with stretch fabric piped armholes. In polyester satin with horizontal quilting, and designed with two integrated vertical pockets. Machine washable at 30°C. Colour: Navy


CAVALLERIA TOSCANA MEN’S TECHNICAL RIDING JACKET

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CAVALLERIA TOSCANA NEW GRIP SYSTEM BREECHES

Made from soft yet durable stretch-jersey, they are breathable and extremely comfortable to wear. Silicone-coated knees ensure superior grip in the saddle and the stretch-knit sock panels sit smoothly beneath long boots. Machine washable. Available in men’s and ladies.

CAVALLERIA TOSCANA LADIES SUMMER POLO

No rider’s wardrobe is complete without a staple shirt. Lightweight, breathable and very elegant.

EQUI-THEME LADIES KASHMIR JEAN

100% mode paisley print jeans with bicolour strass inlays. Stretch comfort fabric decorated with contrasted topstitching, ¾ stretch EKKITEX seat for a good grip on the saddle, stretch waistband with loops and strass button closure. Machine washable at 30°C.

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JIN ALUMINIUM STIRRUPS

At only 300g JIN, Italian-made, aluminium stirrups are among the lightest in the world. With wide anti-slip pimpled aluminium foot rests, designed especially for great stability, the sensation is that the stirrup becomes a part of your foot. Available in a great choice of colours in anodised aluminium for durable protection against corrosion. Available from www.equineonline.co.za or call 072 300 2762.

DY’ON LARGE CRANK NOSEBAND DOUBLE BRIDLE SERGIO GRASSO EVERYONE LACE ZIP LONG BOOTS

The Sergio Grasso Everyone Long Boot is a classically styled riding boot handcrafted using premium full grain Nappa calfskin leather. Designed with a classical European top line and slim contoured fit, the Everyone is designed with comfort and performance in mind. Features include a rear reinforced elasticated outer panel, elasticated laces, rear spur rests, and soles are equipped with SG ProComf® Technology.The inside calf area of the boot is fitted with SG Ultratech grip enhancing rubber material, increasing the rider’s leg stability and confidence in the saddle. Colours: Absolute Black only. Available at Western Shoppe for R 8943.14 incl.VAT. www.westernshoppe.com

Dy’on are one of Europe’s most prestigious suppliers of equestrian products.This dressage bridle, in rolled English leather, is a thin soft headpiece with anatomic cut to release the base of the ears and neoprene padding with extra soft full grain sheep leather lining. It features a wide black patent leather noseband, slightly raised, and neoprene padding with extra soft full grain black sheep leather lining. Soft Dy’on V-shaped browband with authentic Swarovski crystals. Stainless steel buckles. Available in black – cob, full and oversize. Available from www.equineonline.co.za or call 072 300 2762.

EQUESTRIAN ESSENTIALS SMART EQUINE PRODUCTS

Hoof Oil, Leather Cleaner, Leather Oil, Mane and Tail Conditioner, Oatmeal and Vit E Shampoo, Cooling Clay, Cooling Gel, Hoof Dressing, Itch Shampoo. Available from Tack n Togs @ Midfeeds. For more information call 011 468 1824 or email orders@midfeeds.co.za.

ZANDONA SPUR GUARD

The “SUPERIOR CHAFE GUARD”, 100% Made in Italy, prevents and protects the skin from abrasions in the girth area of the horse, which is often scraped by the heels and spurs of the rider. Made with a high quality elastic fabric with high breathable capacity. Available in black and in the following sizes: M: cm 205 (Chest-Girth cm 200/219) – R2345.93 L/XL: cm 215 (Chest-Girth cm 220/249) – R2345.93 Available from Tack n Togs @ Midfeeds. For more information call 011 468 1824 or email sales@tackntogs.co.za.

POPONCINE HARMONY BITS

Handcrafted in Italy, these bits offer an alternative to conventional stainless steel. Made of strong, flexible, silicon-type hypoallergenic material, with various cheek actions. Available from Tack n Togs at Midfeeds retailing from R1742 to R3811. Contact 011 468 1824, email info@tackntogs.co.za or visit tackntogs.co.za.

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MONTRE LADIES SHOW BREECH

The classic white show breech, stylishly understated with an Espoir embroided patch on the back pocket and the gold Espoir name plate with signature petersham ribbon on the front pocket. Available from Espoir Equestrian www.espoirequestrian.com

FONCÉ BLEU NAVY COTTON SHIRT

100% cotton everyday riding shirt with a classic printed fabric, contrast button-panel inlay and golden buttons. Perfectly matches any Espoir Bamboo Breech. Available from Espoir Equestrian www.espoirequestrian.com

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NEW TABARD EQUINE LOTION

New Tabard Equine Lotion is registered as a stock remedy with the Department of Agriculture. Its active ingredient, DEET, has been clinically tested to repel mosquitoes, houseflies and biting midges.

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ROYALE NAVY SHOW JACKET

A softshell show jacket with a unique flat stylised collar and six-paneled back seams. An elegant jacket that will stand out in the showring with a gold Espoir pin and signature petersham ribbon. Colours available: Grey, Navy and Tan. Available from Espoir Equestrian www.espoirequestrian.com


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LIFESTYLE ESSENTIALS

CLICQUOT ARROW Where do you want to go? The Clicquot Arrow can point the way. A twist on traditional road signs, the Clicquot Arrow invites you to celebrate with a trendy metal case shaped like an arrow, designed to hold one 750ml bottle of Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label. An array of 29 global destinations, from Cape Town to Kyoto, Buenos Aires to Berlin adorns the case’s front. The distance is also inscribed, calculated in kilometers from Reims, the centre of the House’s production. Cases of three can be assembled according to thematic journeys: Let your trip be inspired by Parties, with destinations from Ibiza to Berlin to St. Tropez. A Fashion journey goes from Paris to Milan to New York. Experience Design via Tokyo, Milan and Miami or Summer from Rio to Sydney to Hawaii. Or let your taste for adventure guide you to create your own itinerary! Available nationally from August from selected retailers from R629.95

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LIFESTYLE ESSENTIALS ONE X ONETEASPOON

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Hummer BWP (Cardento/ Action Breaker/ Fleuri du Manoir) & Johnathan Clark

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Individual Gold medallist Nick Skelton on the stallion Big Star de la Vie

CHECKING OUT THE PEDIGREES OF 2016 RIO OLYMPIC JUMPERS AND WHAT WE HAVE IN SA

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By Frances Cheboub - Breed Manager SAWHS | Photos by Meilleur Ami Photography and T&B Images

or followers of breeding I was taken by the article in Breeding News on the prevalent blood lines of the Rio 2016 show jumping horses. For my sins I decided to write something similar but with reference to South Africa and what we have available here in stallions. There are two lines that shone through as the leading stallions in the breeding of the horses at the Olympics. For Pleasure which is old blood & Cornet Oblenski which is very new blood to be as successful as this already. Olympic Competitors with For Pleasure • Flora de Mariposa for Penelope Leprovost, French Team, by For Pleasure x Powerlight (Pilot) x Quito de Bussey • Barron for Lucy Davis, USA Team, by For Pleasure/ x Nabab de Reve x Goldspring de Lauzelle (Gotthard) • Fit For Fun 13 for Luciana Diniz, Portugal individual, by For Pleasure x Fabriano (Wendulan by Wendekreis/ Azur by Abzats) x Escudo I To add to his impact there were also sons of For Pleasure

that sired some of the Olympic jumpers such as For Feeling (For Pleasure/ Monaco/ Graphit) sire of Fibonacci for Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum, German Team and part of the Bronze team winners; Forsythe (For Pleasure/ Grannus) sire of Fine Lady 5 for Eric Lamaze Canadian Team; and For Keeps (For Pleasure/ Graphit) for Yan Candell Canadian Team. In SA our first introduction of For Pleasure was via the high performing stallion For Joy (For Pleasure/ Don Carlos/ Antried) from Callaho stud. Jeanne Korber has a super mare Callaho Fiorella ( For Joy/ Raphael/ Watzmann) jumping in the open classes. However we do have For Pleasure’s blood lines of Furioso and Grannus found separately in our breeding herd. Cornet Oblensky is exceedingly new blood and it is proving difficult to bring in his frozen semen and will be discussed at the end of the article. ‘Best breeding cocktail ever’ Thanks to our original breeders such as Alzu, Brandenburg and Davenport Studs along with mainly Hanovarian horses sourced from Namibia, we have a strong foundation in what I would call Holsteins ‘Best breeding cocktail ever’. That is the favourite combination of the C & L- lines of Capitol I

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Callaho Fiorella SAW (For Joy/ Raphael/ Watzmann) & Jeanne Korber

Cornet Damiro by Cornet Oblenski 2016 Kannan colt Kygo MF

& Landgraf I as well as the sensational addition to German breeding at the time of the Selle Francais Cor de la Bryère. I mention a few examples: Olympic Competitors with these lines • Casello Holst for Ludger Beerbaum, German Team by Casall Ask (Caretino/Lavall(Landgraf))/ Carolus I/ Caletto II (Cor dl Bryere/ Consul) • Lintea Tequila for Edwina Tops-Alexander, Australian Team by Cambell (Contender/ Corofino/ Landgraf I) x Corrado (Cor dl Bryère/ Capitol I) x LancerII (Landgraf I) • Yajamila SWB for Henrik von Eckermann, Swedish Team by Lux Z (Lord Calando/ Ahorn Z/ Calleto I) x Daimler B (Nimmerdor/ Lucky Boy xx/ Heidelberg by Ladykiller xx) X Ramiro Z) • Cooper 75 Holst for RenéTebbel, UkraineTeam by Colman (Carthago / Lord/ Mambo) x Lord

(Canturo/ Cassini II/ Landgraf I) as Barry Taylor’s ride which we licensed last year; we have Carthago blood now with Callaho’s Carnival La Silla (Carthago/ Landadel/ Lord) and the exciting stallion Hummer ridden by Johanthan Clark is sired by Cardento; as well as we also have a young stallion Rivendell Chancellor (Clintlord/ Calido/ Landjunker II) presently in the Franschoek area. “The French flair” Known for doing things their own way, brings us to the amazing Galoubet A, where Almé was crossed to a French trotter Viti by Nystag. Not to be forgotten too, is the immortal Ibrahim blood found in Quidam de Revel, Jalisco B and Almé lines.

BALOUBET DU ROUET & QUICK STAR both by GALOUBET A. Olympic Competitors with these lines • Big Star de la Vie BWP for Nick Skelton, In our mare base we find Landjunker (Landgraf I/ Rigolleto) British Team winning individual gold (Quick Star of Alzu Stud doing well in the dam line and some Land Earl’s by Galoubet A is the sire) (Landgraf I/ Calypso I), an original stallion of Brandenburg stud. • Sydney une Prince SF for Roger Yves Bost Canello (Calando I/ Alcatraz/ Lepanto) of Brandenburg Stud has French Team (Baloubet du Rouet is sire) proven a good sire although he died early on. More recently • Taloubet Z KWPN for Christian Alman we have had access to stallions like Concerto by Come On German Team (Baloubet du Rouet is sire) (Cantus/ Landgraf I) of Eagles Stud and Capriccio (Cor de la • First Class Van Eeckelghem BWP for Daniel Bryère/ Capitol I/ Landmeister) of Capital Stud; as well as Lassiter Deusser German Team (Baloubet du Rouet is (Lacapo/ Coriander/ Lord) now standing at Mythos Stud. sire) • Bon Chance CW KWPN for Janike Sprunger Swiss Team New C & L lines coming into the system are Cheveyo (Baloubet du Rouet is sire)

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Maxstar Obi Wan Kinobi SAW carrying Voltaire blood & ridden by Graham Winn

How are we doing with the flair of the French? We certainly could do with more Galoubet A in our lines. However stallions like Rivale D’Or had Skippy II (by Galoubet A) on the dam line and was used a lot in the early part 2000. Anyone with a Bono vd Kiekenhoef mare will have Skippy II on the top line. Both these stallions are well known to produce jumpers. There is still frozen semen available of Nelson vd Helle whose dams sire was Gabloubet A. Almé is found in the blood lines of any Bambix (Joyau D’Or/ Jalisco B) mares but not many are still around. Jalisco B is found in available frozen semen of Fuego du Prelet. Fuego is found in the pedigree of SFN Zenith (Rash R x Fuego du Prelet x Burgraaff ) ridden by Jeroen Dubbeldam for the Netherlands. Also the VDL frozen semen of Carrera (Cardento x Baloubet du Rouet x Zeus) is available here. Triomphe de Muze (Chin chin x Baloubet du Rouet) is available in frozen semen from Iconic Sires. French breeding of course leads us onto: QUIDAM DE REVEL (SF) – Jalisco B x Nankin x Harphortas Olympic Competitors with these lines • Rahotep de Toscane for Philippe Rozier, French Team by Quidam de Revel/ Laudanum xx/ Uriel • Cassionato for Michael Whitaker, British Team, a Holsteiner stallion by Cassini I x Quidam de Revel x Carneval (Cor dl Bryere/ Farnese) • VDL Groep Verdi TN N.O.P. for Maikel van der Vleuten, Dutch Team by Quidam de Revel X Landgraf I x Calypso I (by Cor dl Bryere) • Chief for Alonso Valdez Prado, Peru individual, by Verdi

TN N.O.P. (Quidam de Revel/ Landgraf I/ Calypso I) x Argentinus x Wienerwald MHS Going Global for Greg Broderick, Ireland individual by Quidam JR (Quidam de Revel/ Narquotique) x Cavaliere Royal (Cor dl Bryère) x Marwood xx

Again this is a bloodline that should be much more prevalent in our mare herd today. Gipsy King du Coty SF (Quidam de Revel/ Hamster AA) jumped open in SA in the early 2000’s, bred a little in SA before returning to Zimbabwe. Then Lynda Rabie brought in Quartz d’Eclipse Holst (Quidam de Revel/ Cassini I/ Coriander) who was very well used but died early from AHS. Now we have some new stallions, firstly Imposant van t’Laar BWP (Quidam de Revel/ Cor de la Bryère/ Lacapo) belonging to Tamzyn Wegrostek jumping in the 1m20; as well as Qino D’Eclipse Holst (Quidam de Revel/ Cassini I/ Caretino) belonging to Lynda Rabie; and Nova Studs Quixotte SAW by Quartz d’Eclipse. The highly successful VDL Verdi who competed at Rio is also available in frozen semen from De Bruyn Equine. The next big step forward in our breeding began when, with the help of frozen semen and some great importations over the past 16 years, a significant broadening of our breeding base began. So we have a fresh input of the Quidam de Revel line via the highly successful: NABAB DU REVE (BWP) – Quidam de Revel x Artichaut x Bel Avenir

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Berlioz des haut Droit SBS (Nabab de Reve/ Pavarotti vd Helle) premium licensed & ridden by Grant Langley

Olympic Competitors with these lines • Reveur de Hurtebise for Kevin Staut, French Team, by Kashmir van het Schuttershof (Nabab de Reve) x Capricieux de Six Censes (Major de la Cour/ Dynamique) x Brillioso (Furioso xx) • Barron for Lucy Davis, USA Team, by For Pleasure x Nabab de Reve x Goldspring de Lauzelle (Gotthard). • U Watch BWP for Manuel Fernández Saro, Spanish Team by President x Nabab De Reve x Chin Chin • H&M All In for Peder Fredricson, Swedish Team , by Kashmir van Schuttershof (Nabab de Reve) x Andiamo Z (Amino by Almé/ Gartichou) • Fedor for Scott Keach, Australian Team by Kashmir van het Schuttershof (Nabab de Reve) x Orkaan (Latano) x Feinschnitt vd Richter (Wendekreis) We have the premium licensed Berlioz des haut Droit SBS (Nabab de Reve/ Pavarotti vd Helle) ridden by Grant Langley, a big talented horse, now coming into his own in the Open classes. Then there is frozen semen via VDL of Glasgow (Nabab de Reve/ Darco) and Nijhof ’s Dakar (Nabab de Reve/ Condorde/ Pilot) as well as I’m Special de Muze (Emerald/ Nabab de Reve/ Chin Chin) at De Bruyn Equine and Embriosem respectively. Another line that has taken our breeding recently by storm is that of proven stallion KANNAN (KWPN) – Voltaire x Nimmerdor x Le Mexico.

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Olympic Competitors with these lines • Nino des Buissonnets for Sterve Guerdat of the Swiss team, 15-year-old SF gelding by Kannan x Narcos II x Alme.This horse was withdrawn due to injury just before the competition started. • Quabri de l’Isle for Pedro Veniss of the Brazilian team, on 12-year-old SF stallion by Kannan x Socrate De Chivre (Grand Veneur) x Quastor (Ibrahim/ Jus de Pomme) • Quorida de Treho for Romain Duguet for the Swiss team, 12-year-old SF mare by Kannan x Tolbiac Des Forets (Muget du Manoir/Uriel) x Double Espoir) We are fortunate to have this deceased stallion’s frozen semen brought in by Iconic Sires via The Stallion Company. The first foals on the ground should be rising three by now. This brings us a good step forward in our breeding. We also have the young stallion Cordova Kwazimodo (Kannan/ Dageraad) owned by Sandra Dewar. Iconic sires has a son of Kannan called Ulhan du Temple (Kannan x Quidam de Revel) frozen semen provided by GFE. The Voltaire blood is mainly found via extensive breeding with Carrick (Voltaire/ Diaghalev xx/ Ibrahim) now deceased, at the Saratoga stud. His licensed son owned by Max Star Stud, Saratoga Obi wan Kinobi (Carrick/ Wendesi/ Magnet) is ridden by Graham Win and jumping well in the open classes. Rico (Voltaire/ Burggraaf) also deceased will be found in the mare lines of some of our breeders especially in the Eastern Cape where he stood.


Impostant van t’Laar BWP (Quidam de Revel/ Cor dl Bryere/ Lacapo) owned by Tamzyn Wegrostek

“Unlocking of the New C-line,” a Mercurial Professional ride for Power

by Cornet Oblenski x Champion du Lys x Alexis Z Cornet 36 for Daisuke Fukushima, Japanese Team Cornet Obelinski x Ars Vivendi (by Accord II) x Renoir Clooney 51 for Martin Fuchs, Swiss Team, Cornet Obolensky x Ferragamo (Florestan I)

From CLINTON to CORNET OBLENSKI & the key component HEARTBREAKER.

These horses are invariably not amateur rides. So while you may want to go after this breeding be aware, as an owner or rider you will have to be able to cope with their foibles and high intelligence.

Our spectacular winner of the Free Jumping in 2015 was Luigi di Cantero by Diabeau (Clinton/ Skippy II) and Dantani van de Waasdonck who is by Zorro (Clinton / Cavalier) owned by Tamzyn Wegrostek gives us our first Clinton stallions in South Africa. We also have some access to super Clinton and Heartbreaker blood via frozen semen from our three main importers De Bruyn Equine, Embriosem and Iconic sires: Eldorado vd Zeshoek is by Clinton; Quasimodo vd Molendreef has Heartbreaker as his sire; Arezzo VDL has Heartbreaker in the dam line; Zacharov has Clinton as his sire . Lynda Rabie has a young son of his which we saw at the Manor D’Or Free Movement classes 1-2 year old class called Cornet Damiro (Cornet Oblenski/ Darco/ Ramiro) who looks extremely interesting as a future breeding prospect.

Olympic Competitors with these lines • Cornado NRW Westf for Marcus Ehning, German Team by Cornet Oblenski BWP (Clinton/ Heartbreaker)/ Acobat I Holst x Cantus Holst (was withdrawn) • Tic Tac du Seigneur SBS for Ben Maher, British Team by Clinton x Darco x Heartbreaker • Heros van de Vogelzong BWP for Amy Millar ,Canadian Team by Canadian River (Capitol I/ Lord/ Lacapo) x Clinton I x Furioso II • AD Cornetto K for Alvaro Doda de Miranda, Brazilian Team by Cornet Obolensky x Calido x Grannus • U Watch BWP for Manuel Fernández Saro, Spanish Team by President (Clinton/ Voltaire/ Le Mexico) x Nabab De Reve x Chin Chin • Cannavaro 9 for Matias Albarracin, Argentinian Team by Cornet Oblenski x Florestan x Tanzer • Cornet du Lys for José María Larocca, Argentinian Team

The famous blood lines of Pilot, Darco, Grannus, Ramiro, Polydor, Amino, Nimmerdor, Gotthard, Zeus, Wendekreis will be found spread across all these pedigrees and are not to be forgotten when planning your breeding choices. Understand this article as one of broad brush strokes to see what we have in South Africa of these Olympic breeding stars.

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GFE:

Contendro I (Contender x Reichsgraf)

T O D AY ’ S S TA L L I O N O W N E R WHEN ONE THINKS OF A STALLION OWNER, THE TRADITIONAL IMAGE THAT COMES TO MIND IS THAT OF A SINGLE PERSON POSING HANDSOMELY ALONGSIDE HIS PRIZED BEAST WITH MANICURED LAWNS ROLLING AWAY INTO THE DISTANCE, BEAUTIFULLY CAPTURING THE ROMANCE OF STUD FARM LIFE.

I

t’s a picture of privileged life, once solely the domain of the affluent who partook the endeavour to breed more out of passion and pass time than for commercial success. Nowadays however sport horse breeding in Europe is seen as big business in itself and due mainly to economics, it is far more commonplace for the risks of stallion ownership and breeding as a commercial enterprise to be shared through syndication. Traditionally in France stallion ownership was left to The National Stud, and so it took a group of like-minded people to come together

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to form the company, Groupe France Elevage (GFE), and take stallion ownership and syndication to a whole new level. Groupe France Elevage meaning French Livestock Group, was founded in 2003 by Arnaud Evain. GFE’s roots go back to 1981 to a company known as PHI, which Arnaud managed. 35 Years later, GFE is now the leading stallion owner in France and one of the biggest in the world, exporting semen from 35 stallions and achieving over 4000 coverings a year worldwide. Of these 35 stallions, 11 of which can be found in the World


Orlando (Heartbreaker x Darco)

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Herald III (Heraldik XX x Lorenz)

Gem Twist XX (Good Twist XX x Noble Jay XX). Semen available from clone, Gemini.

Breeding Federation for Sport Horses (WBFSH) top 100 Sire rankings, GFE owns 15 that are alive today, while they still also own the frozen semen from another 10 stallions that are now sadly deceased, such as Air Jordan and Calvaro. GFE comprises a group of more than 350 shareholders who are breeders, riders, trainers and horse traders from across the globe who have joined forces to share knowledge and be stronger together. It is through this massive collaborative effort, notwithstanding the company’s relentless marketing machine, that stallions such as Mr Blue, Calvaro, Kannan and Contendro I have become super-sires, and the world made aware of their genetic power, which otherwise may have gone virtually unrecognized. GFE’s focus is on investing in proven stallions who have competed well at the highest international levels, stallions whose offspring are successful and also on young stallions who show undeniable quality and promise. Of the horses that competed recently at the Rio Olympics no less than 20% have GFE stallions in their pedigrees! All profits from stud fees are reinvested in new stallions so that breeders will always have

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access to a wide range of the best to choose from. Two new stallions that GFE are hopeful will reward their confidence and who fit the bill of “undeniable quality and promise” are Ulhan du Temple (Kannan x Quidam de Revel) and Up To You (Calvaro x Olisco) who are both modern with plenty of blood while still showing the bone, strength and balance of their older generations. GFE Deputy CEO, Brice Elvezi, already holds the above mentioned stallions in the highest regard and had this to say: “My personal favorites are more about the rising generation and especially Kannan’s son, Ulhan du Temple, or Calvaro’s son, Up to You.” When asked why he chose these two stallions to join his already formidable band of sires, he said, “We were looking for a son of Kannan. The mixing between Kannan and Quidam de Revel is one of the best. Ulhan is very similar to his father regarding the conformation and he is like those kinds of horses who are jumping very easily. When they jump, some horses are showing powerful energy with lightness, Ulhan and some others are jumping with ease, lightness and finesse. He is this kind of horse who seems to have the strength to jump anything.


Air Jordan (Argentinus x Matador)

“Up to You is strong and tall. We like so much the crossing between Calvaro and the dam line of Kraque Boom, plenty of blood. He is the good boy, one of the best of his generation each year at 5yo, 6yo, 7yo etc. He has a big canter and a super technique, especially the back is remarkable. Both stallions are so kind and close to their humans.” In 2015 GFE joined forces with the South African stallion agency, Iconic Sires, to make their stallions more easily accessible here. Currently there are eight GFE stallions available through imported frozen semen, with more still to come. SA breeders have quite a selection with names like Kannan (Voltaire x Nimmerdor), Contendro I (Contender x Reichsgraf), Air Jordan (Argentinus x Matador) and Orlando (Heartbreaker x Darco) to choose from. As the WBFSH 2014 number 1, 2015 number 2, and rumour has it he is soon to be announced 2016 number 1 jumping sire again, it is no wonder that his owners are very proud to be able to include him in their catalogues. It is interesting to note that his offspring don’t often appear in the placings in the young horse classes as they tend to be “late bloomers” and only come into

their own as 7 year olds, but once they have arrived there is no stopping them. Of the other stallions on offer in SA, Contendro I has been an international star from a young age. He won everything in Germany in the young horse classes, and so too have his offspring. GFE had the opportunity to buy into a partnership with his previous owner and jumped at it. Contendro I is the perfect stallion to match with mares who need a bit of lightening. He especially offers type, locomotion and technique. As the current world number 1 eventing sire, as well as world number 16 jumping sire, not only are his offspring jumpers, but they are also proving to be more than competent in the dressage arena. Although now deceased, Air Jordan is the rising stallion who made a great entrance in the world top 100 thanks to his first progeny. Now, with only the last of his frozen semen available, only a few breeders will be lucky enough to use him in their breeding programs. He is one not to be missed. Orlando is owned by the American based Double H Farm who is GFE’s partner for his breedings. Orlando has been in the top

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Ulhan du Temple (Kannan x Quidam de Revel)

50 of the best jumping stallion rankings for 5 years! He produces horses with a modern type and ideally suits mares with plenty of blood. He is stationed in Germany and much appreciated by the Hannover and Holsteiner breeder.

Milton in the 80’s, and he carries the Thoroughbred genes that built the warmblood horses in Europe, that’s why we have him. He gets 150 mares a year in Europe, supported mostly by professional breeders who are using him on 10 mares each.”

Herald III is almost 100% Thoroughbred with many top level rankings to his credit: WEG 2010, CSIO and CSI-W. Not only is his sire the formidable Thoroughbred, Heraldik, who held the world number one eventing sire position for 7 years, but Herald III also descends from a very prestigious damline. His foals inherit his kind temperament, elegant looks and wonderful paces.

GFE aims to offer breeders not only the opportunity to access some of the best genetics available today through their stallions, but also to offer services such as their PAX crossbreeding assistance program, which allows breeders to input data using a selection of 40 objective criteria into an online portal in order to determine which of the GFE stallions are best suited for their mare and ultimate breeding goal. The program doesn’t guarantee results, but has been designed as a tool to work alongside the combining of pedigree and the breeder’s own instinct to choose the perfect sire for their future foal.

Also perfect for heavier mares is Gemini, the clone of the famous and much loved Thoroughbred jumping gelding Gem Twist (Good Twist XX x Noble Jay XX). “Gemini is a spoiled boy!” says Brice. “And he knows it and is very, very clever.We generally do not trust clones, but we made an exception for him because everybody in Europe is looking for blood and Thoroughbred, but the type has changed and they are not the same as 30 years ago. Gemini has the genes of Gem Twist who was one of the best beside Jappeloup and

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Whether breeding for pleasure or profit, GFE has made choosing a stallion easy by offering a selection of some of the best in the world. For more information on the stallions available in South Africa visit www.iconicsires.co.za or contact Aileen Papenfus at info@iconicsires.co.za, or on tel. 071 566 7305.


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ArenaGrip

F

SA

ive years ago I upgraded my jumping arena with Polyester fibre that was imported from Germany, by adding the fibre to what was an old established arena. The going in my arena is so good that we decided to import and source the same fibre, and we did so through ArenaGrip Germany. We wanted a product which was long lasting and simple to install and maintain.This Polyester flake and fibre was used at several Olympic Games, namely Athens 2004, Hong Kong 2008 and Rio 2016. It has also been installed in surfaces all over world such as Paul Schockemohle, Hugo Simon, Old Barrington and the HRH Prince Fahed Bin Mashary Saudi Arabia. ArenaGrip Polyester flakes mixed with sand provides the perfect arena footing for daily training in all equestrian disciplines. The Polyester flakes provide the correct elasticity and grip while at the same time protecting the hooves, joints, tendons and muscles of your horse. As Steven Hadley said in the final event at Rio Olympics “The ground has been kind to the horses� The Arenagrip polyester flakes and fibres ensure a technically advanced footing with balanced cushioning, friction characteristics and stable grip. The polyester flakes are the optimal footing for an arena both indoor and outdoor. They retain moisture and optimise the water balance of the arena and so reduce troublesome dust formation. Arenagrip polyester flakes and fibres consist of only pure polyester and are especially durable as well as being light and weather-resistant.This surface fulfils all the requirements of a competition surface which has to achieve the high demands of top-class equestrian disciplines. For further information or to view our ArenaGrip SA arenas or for a quote contact Dominey Alexander on 0825512236 or email: cellehof@mweb.co.za

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Newly laid out Fibre


ARENAGRIP

SA

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Samantha McIntosh winner of the WCQ on Let’s Win

THE 2016 REVIL WORLD CUP QUALIFIER SHOW

W

hat can one say about the 2016 WCQ show hosted by Revil Stables in Polokwane? I believe everyone would rave and say: “ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC”!!!! This is the show that sets the bar for nearly every other show jumping event in South Africa. René Fourie and her dedicated team put on a show that sparkles with efficiency and friendliness. This year she and her hard working husband, Conrad, assembled more than thirty sponsors to support their ambitious project. A huge thank you to Reonet, the headline sponsor, as well as to all the other purveyors who gave so generously – the programme and calendar given to the riders helps to showcase sponsors, many of whom showered the competitors with welcome and useful gifts. When the schedule for this show comes online there is an immediate frenzy to get entries in – there are only about 220 spots available because this is a 1 arena venue and everyone travels in, and needs a stable for their horse. Revil provides spacious brick stables for each equine, as well as a lunge arena and wash bay facilities.The grooms tell their employers that this is the best show they attend during the year with regard to food, ablution facilities, 42

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By Anne Marie Esslinger | Photos by T&B Images

cleanliness and security (supplied by René’s dad, Pieter, who owns Urban Africa Protection Services). There are several options for riders when not on their mounts – they can either relax in the riders’ hall, where 3 meals per day are served, or indulge in the VIP area – and most riders take advantage of one of these 2 facilities because they spend most of every day at the show watching the competitions and chatting with new or existing friends. The cocktail party and the prize giving dinner, both included, were well supported by the riders and sponsors with music and a lot of booze laid on! The food was delicious….. Within the space of one hour the entries are full and disappointed customers start waiting for cancellations. By the time the eagerly anticipated show arrives everything is in place with regard to stable organisation, parking, catering etc.This event caters for the 1,20m – 1,50m levels, with an A2 Welcome Stakes on the first day, followed by a 2 Phase Competition, a 2 roundCompetition or Accumulator, and the Championship – an exciting 5-day package with a rest day for each division. This year Revil invited Marco Hesse from Germany, to be their


Dominey Alexander on Discovery Enjoy 68

overseas course designer. Marco is a FEI level III course designer who has built in SA twice before and knows our standard. He was ably assisted by Kate Launder from Jo’burg. His tracks were flowing and mainly encouraged forward riding, especially in the speed classes and jump offs, where there were few inside turn options but lots of place to take out strides or choose the most economical line. From friendly first day courses to more challenging championship tracks, there was lots of variety and thrilling finales to all the classes. The footing, supplied and maintained by Martin Collins SA, was excellent and consistent, providing spring and shock absorbing qualities for the horses, most of whom performed beautifully.The quality of our pool of jumping horses in SA is continually on the up and up, with so many wonderful locally bred horses and imports to drool over – Dolce Vita van de Molendreef, ably piloted by Gareth Neill, proved her mettle once again with a 1st and two 2nd places in the 1,40m division, whilst Tack ‘n Togs Cupidor, Shari Navra’s new mount, won the 1,40m Welcome, and performed clear for jumping in the WCQ class. There were a number of names frequently in the line ups. Nicola Sime-Riley had a good show. With Sunny Park Stables’ Crispin, she won the 1,30m Welcome, and placed in the 1,35m 2 Phase. She also notched up a beautiful diamond, generously sponsored by Quintin Jansen of Flawless Diamond Dealers in the 1,50m Accumulator, riding Sunny Park Stables Elpaso.Then a new import, owned by Ronelle Gilbert of Manor d’Or stables, called Insaghi Db, placed in two of the 1,30m competitions, whist FulvicConoisseur was 3rd in the 1,50m Accumulator. Neriske Prinsloo, now living

Jonathan Clarke on Hummer

in Middelburg, had a number of horses in the Open division, and won the 1,35m welcome with White Spirit C. Jenna Barrow, visiting from KZN, took the honours in the 1,35m Championship with locally bred Capital Contagion, whilst Erreplus Casper and Simon Hendry placed consistently at this height, and made it look easy. Mikayla McDonald was a popular winner in the 1,40m Competition, riding the Hilmar Meyer sourced horse, Lady Gaga. The evergreen Pohland’s Westpoint and his partner, Greg Scott, are always quick, notching up a 2nd in the 1,30m Welcome and a 3rd in the 1,35m competition. Carina Lingerfelder, who has upped her game since training with Carl Boonzaaier, won the 1,35m 2 Phase on Alzu Sahara, after placing well in the 1,30m Welcome. Shelly Ann Moore showed her speed queen tendencies riding Lamiro, to win the 1,30m competition and place well in both the 2 phase and the Championship. Lara Neill ran Alzu Opportunity, her exciting but cheeky young Optimum mare, against the clock to finish 2nd in the 1,30m Competition and 3rd in the Championship – she also placed at the show with Opium de Sauge. Rainer Korber competed a number of horses successfully, winning the 1,30m 2 Phase on Linda Ellerine’s Contador, and placing well with Worldnet Logistics Egalité , Callaho Lansink, and Country Life Callaho Forlandus.Tracy Davids took a bad tumble with Blakeney Boy earlier in the show, but bounced back to win a 30 horse jump off in the 1,30m Championship! Another rider seen in the line up more than once was Oscar Ncube, who showed off Tamar Bernstein’s New Rossée, and Liesl Jansen’s Poker LS. Jonathan Clarke is always a formidable Issue 28 SPORTING HORSE

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Anne Marie Esslinger on Alzu Oregon

competitor against the clock, and had loads of successes, riding Data Sciences Jerba van den Bisschop, EnoucheRk (winner 1,35m competition), Felix van de Mispelaere, and Hummer van het Bevrijdthof...this lovely grey stallion ran away with the 1,40m Grand Prix on Saturday, whilst stable mate, Felix, was pipped at the post in the 1,50m Grand Prix by a very “on form” Samantha McIntosh. Sam took the honours in both this hotly contested class, and the 2016 Reonet World Cup Qualifier competition which carried a prize money package of R150 000.00!

Nicola Sime talking to Johan Lotter

and slipped into 5th position after a couple of the clear rounds faulted by trying to be quicker. Jeanne Engela and Chanel van de Zeshoek who had a super 4th in the 1,50m Grand Prix, skimmed around, losing a stride between fences 2 and 3 at the end of the jump off track, but were not quick enough to beat her coach, Dominey Alexander, who scorched into 2nd with Discovery Enjoy 68, less than .1 of a second behind Samantha and Let’s Win!

After the excitement of the Saturday afternoon 1,40m Championship and the 2016 Reonet WCQ 1,50m class, one might have expected a quieter Sunday – not so! The track for the 1,30m Championship proved no contest for the 60 odd horses, half of which skipped around clear, and had to pull all the stops for a place in the top 6 for the prize giving.The 1,35m Mini Prix was also a strong class. Many riders packed up before the 1,20m championships, wanting to get ahead of the traffic back into Jo’burg before dark. Those that stayed had amazing fun in their Championship, and delivered another nail biting finale for the spectators who screamed them to the finish, doing a 9 stride With live streaming organised by TB Images a lot of people not distance in just 7! Congratulations in the 1,20m section must go fortunate enough to be able to attend the event were able to to Lauren Pretorius and Willeke who won the Welcome Stakes, watch the exciting main WCQ competition on their computers Kirsty Jade Topham and Capital Unforgettable who won the or telephones(over 1700, we heard!)! The track appeared 2 Phase, Joanne van Achterbergh and Alzu Olivia, winners of deceptively simple, with fairly regular related distances, enough the 1,20m Competition, and Michelle Joubert and Ride 4 Jesus space in the turns and smooth lines. The time allowed proved Olympus V, who won the Championship, as well as placing in the a challenge though, with many competitors incurring just one Welcome Stakes. Special mention must be made of Rathmor time penalty, whilst others hurried too much and had one rail Quiet Man with Paige Goetsch, who placed consistently, and the down instead. In the end there were 7 clears - so the two fastest elegant Nissan Calina, who was 2nd in the championship and one time penalty horse and rider combinations accompanied also placed in the Welcome Stakes – what a lovely mare! And those clears into the top 25% second round / jump off. Anne- of course the biggest congratulation is to team Revil – you are Marie Esslinger and Alzu Oregon completed another “clear” “the Man”! Reonet is a SA business that manages utilities such as water, electricity and gas for other companies/ individuals, partnering with them to ensure optimal supply and efficient use of water and energy resources though best business practice, state-ofthe-art technologies, and innovation specific to each project. I hope that the show jumping fraternity will support the many fantastic sponsors which included Nissan, Top Bet, Arco 360,BB Auto Polokwane and CK Aerial Surveys to name but a few, in the same way that the sponsors generously support us!

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HORSE RIDER PROFILE PROFILE Cinzia Pasteris on Lakea

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HORSEPROFILE RIDER PROFILE

Cinzia

PASTERIS By Yvonne Bolton / Photos by T&B Images

Tell us a little about your younger years – when you first started riding and whereabouts? I started riding in a small Riding School in Pretoria from age 5 with Mia Swanevelder. I rode Riding School ponies until age 7, when my parents bought me my first pony Galway Emerald Lucy from Kelly O’Connor. Did your parents support and influence your interest in equestrian sport? My parents have always supported my riding career since I started and they were and still are extremely involved. My parents even started their own riding school on our farm so I could have my horses at home and be able to ride every day. They have always wanted the best for me and my riding and without their continued support I wouldn’t be where I am today. Do you have any fond memories of ponies who were special to you at that time? I have always been extremely fortunate in the ponies I have had the privilege of riding, some of those being; Galway Emerald Lucy being my first pony and showing me the ropes in all disciplines. Blue Storm for taking me all the way to children’s A grade when I was only 10 years old, he was the sweetest and most honest pony on the earth. I then had Blue Moon Rising also known as “Kimmi” who I got from Ashlee Hausberger, who was an absolute superstar and a true winner. I was lucky enough to learn how to be extremely competitive on her. I then got the pony who stole my heart, Mulan Rouge who wasn’t the easiest, but when I went to try her out I knew she was a superstar, even though I used to fall off three times in almost every lesson. However, as we bonded I developed an incredible relationship with her and she became unbeatable - she was quick, careful and super brave. No one could have dreamed of a better pony. Who were your first Instructors and where did you have lessons during those years? I trained with Claire Webb and Chad Cunningham in the

beginning and my mom used to truck my ponies all the way to Johannesburg every day for lessons. Later we moved to Johannesburg and I stabled at Chambourne until I moved to Burlington Stables and trained with Anne-Marie Esslinger. I trained with Anne-Marie for 11 years and she has made me the rider I am today. At the end of 2015 I moved to George in the Western Cape and I am now trained by Anthony Kay. Give us a little insight into how and when you were fortunate enough to start riding Blue Storm? I honestly don’t know how I got to be this lucky. My parents bought me this pony for my 8th birthday from the O’Connor family. He was my first real showjumping pony and from when I first got him I knew I wanted to be a Showjumper. He showed me all the ropes of what that meant and was the best teacher. I will forever be grateful for being able to have a pony like that. What Disciplines did you compete in during your younger years and what were the highlights at that time – did you compete in any of the Teams in the Children’s Championships? When I first started on Lucy I did all the Disciplines; Showing, Dressage, Eventing, Jumping and Equitation. In 2004 I was on the Dressage, Jumping and Equitation Teams and again in 2005. 2007 was the first year I was on the Open Jumping Team, Showing and Equitation Teams. I have been lucky enough to have been on a Team every year since then until the end of my Junior career. When did you move to Anne-Marie Esslinger as your Coach and in what way did she impact on your riding career? I moved to Anna when I was 9 years old. It was a huge adjustment for the both of us. I had moved from a yard with only kids, to a yard with none. It was really hard for me training with adults every day, but I think it allowed my riding to mature from a very young age. I owe a lot of my success to Anna, she was the best teacher who was always extremely patient and thorough. She always chose the best horses for me and we really did make a great team. I enjoyed my time at Burlington -it was my second home Issue 28 SPORTING HORSE

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Cinzia on Font Supersonic

HORSE RIDER PROFILE PROFILE

Cinzia on Cleopatra

Cinzia on Goldie

Cinzia on Cleopatra at WCQ Shongweni Cinzia on Cleopatra

and without Anna I wouldn’t be the rider I am today. When you moved into the Junior ranks, who was your first Junior horse and who assisted you with the purchase? My very first Junior horse was Oriental Express which I got from Ashlee Hausberger and I was lucky enough to jump right up to JAs with him. My first owned very competitive junior horse was a Thoroughbred mare called Phambile which I bought from Tracy Dando and Nicky Evans through Anna. Have you ever had the opportunity of riding overseas and if so, what were your impressions of that experience? I have been lucky enough to have ridden and competed overseas. I have attended the German Friendships twice which was absolutely incredible, from the horses to their facilities. It truly was one of the most amazing experiences being able to ride against people from all over the world. I was also lucky enough to spend some time with Kelly O’Connor in Belgium and compete at an Indoor Show there, which was also a fantastic experience watching such world class riders in brilliant venues. When did you purchase Lakea and tell us a little about your trip to Europe – did you see videos prior to your visit and was she the only horse you rode on this occasion? I bought Lakea at the end of 2011 and she arrived in South Africa in the beginning of 2012. I saw a few videos just before I left but she was not on my list of horses to try at all. Anna and I went to Hilmar Meyer’s yard alone and I sat on

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what felt like hundreds of horses which were all amazing but nothing quite felt like the perfect horse for me. We were approaching the end of our trip and I was becoming a bit despondent not having found what we were looking for, when we asked Hilmar if we could try Lakea. He was a bit reluctant, as he didn’t think it was a suitable match, however, I eventually tried her and she was my favourite horse. Anna and Hilmar both agreed it seemed like the right horse for me, although she was tricky and extremely sensitive. I loved everything about her. How has your move to the Western Cape altered your Equestrian involvement? Moving to George has really been fantastic for me and I really am loving being down here. I really enjoy having my horses stay on the same property with me, as it allows me to have a greater involvement in their daily routine and what I feel they need. I feel like moving here has really benefited both my horses in so many ways, I really believe that they are enjoying the more relaxed environment. Although I don’t do as many shows as I used to, due to the distance, I feel like it has really been an advantage, especially for my older horse. One of my favourite things about being down here is being able to ride so many different kinds of horses every day it has really had a great impact on my riding. When you have time off, what other pursuits do you enjoy? Living in the Garden Route allows me to enjoy the outdoors a lot more. I enjoy hiking and long runs on the beach.


www.ciplavet.co.za Reg. No. V26531 Act 36/1947 Reg. No. V18135 Act 36/1947 Reg. No. V25006 Act 36/1947 CIPLA VET (PTY) LTD Building 9, Parc du Cap, Mispel Street, Bellville, 7530, RSA. Tel: 021 943 4200. E-mail: info@ciplavet.co.za.

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HORSE PROFILE Cinzia Pasteris on Cleopatra

CLEOPATRA Cinzia Pasteris interviewed by Yvonne Bolton / Photos by T&B Images

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HORSE PROFILE

Cinzia and Cleopatra winning the Hilmar Meyer Young Rider Series in 2015

When and where did you first view Cleopatra and were you looking for a horse with more talent when you tried her? We were looking for a horse that I could finish my Junior career on, but also a horse that had a bit of experience and one that I could compete with in the adult grades. One that could teach me to handle bigger tracks. Anna found Cleopatra for me at the time and we went to view her in Durban. She was a 12 year old that had jumped a few 1.40m courses and she really was a perfect horse. Do you have any idea where she was bred and produced? Cleopatra was originally from Germany. She was imported and produced by Katelyn Baxter/Lepar. Does she come from a bloodline that has produced any other successful jumpers? No Cleo doesn’t have any well known showjumpers in her bloodlines at all. What was your first impression having ridden her and what made you purchase her? I had tried a lot of horses at the time but I loved Cleo from the word go. Anna knew it was the right horse for me from that day and it was the best decision we could have made. You got Cleopatra several years ago – give us a little insight into your early partnership with her? I bought her in March 2011 and we developed a fantastic partnership instantly. She became my best friend and I enjoyed everything about her from day one. She has always been a fantastic horse to work with and I’ve loved having such a fantastic partner to hold my hand in the ring. 56

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What sort of personality does she have and how does she react to the Show environment? Cleo is the sweetest, most kind -hearted horse I have ever owned. She is quick, brave and she loves her job. She is the same horse every day and its an absolute dream to work with a horse like her. Cleo is fantastic in a show environment. She is an extremely level headed horse and she loves winning. She always gives her best. All top horses have some quirks – what are Cleopatra’s and what is she like around the Yard? To be honest Cleo doesn’t really have any “quirks” as such if she is feeling really “naughty” she can sometimes call for her friends. (Haha) no honestly she is an absolute “Saint”. She is loving and sweet and everyone loves her and enjoys working with her, she’s any horse person’s dream horse. Tell us about your most memorable achievements with this talented mare? The most memorable achievements I have had on Cleo were definitely winning the Word Cup in Shongweni this year, Jumping around the Galencia Derby in 2013, winning the South African Showjumping and Equitation Championships in 2011 , the Junior Outdoor GP and the Junior Derby. She is an extremely talented mare and she never lets me down. What are your Equestrian goals for the future with Cleopatra? Cleo is already 18 so I plan to jump her in the bigger classes as long as she allows me to. I am looking forward to jumping the Derby this year and Adult South African Championships and the World Cup series again next year as well as all the other big shows I can take her to.


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EVENT DETAILS: DATE: SATURDAY 1 OCTOBER AND SUNDAY 2 OCTOBER, 2016 VENUE: KYALAMI PARK CLUB, 1 DAHLIA ROAD, KYALAMI

TICKETS: General access grand stand via Computicket
 VIP hospitality via derby@kyalamiparkclub.co.za For details on the various VIP hospitality areas, please go to www.kyalamiparkclub.co.za

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THE 51 ANNUAL SOUTH AFRICAN DERBY ST

Photos by T&B Images

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The crème de la crème of SA showjumping set to wow audiences

fter last year’s milestone 50th Anniversary event, the SA Derby is back to thrill audiences with the majesty that is show jumping. In true equestrian event style and as tradition would have it, the horses will have to compete with the beauty and glamour of the finery worn by the spectators in attendance. From 29 September - 2 October, the Kyalami Park Club will be showing its very best to the crowds and fans. Access to the qualifying rounds is free, yes you read that right, free! The qualifying courses consist of 12-15 fences with jumps ranging in height from 1.45m-1.60m. If you’d like to see what the Derby is all about, whet your appetite with the qualifiers. There’s no question you’ll want to see the top 24 qualifiers battle it out on Sunday 2 October. Anne - Marie Esslinger, winner of the 2015 SA Derby: “Winning the SA Derby is one of the most prestigious accomplishments of my career. Winning the Derby for the 2nd time on its 50th anniversary was memorable. It’s arguably one of the most challenging competitions in terms of difficulty.Thinking back to last year still brings a smile to my

face. I look forward to the 2016 SA Derby” On Sunday, the Derby itself is run over 18 obstacles (some which consist of 2-3 elements), with most obstacles ranging in height from 1.50m-1.60m.The Derby is known for it track difficulty, with elements like The Bank, St Andrew’s Cross and the Devil’s Dyke challenging even the most seasoned of riders and their steeds.Ask any aspiring or established South African jockey; just completing the track is no mean feat. Add in the element of competition and you’re in for a nail-biting day of excitement. If you’d just like to have a relaxing day out, without the excitement of watching the Derby, fear not, there’s plenty happening at Kyalami Park Club for you, your friends and family to enjoy. A children’s area, beer garden, plus great food & wine in the Public Village will make all make for a day of luxurious enjoyment for everyone to enjoy.There will be over 30 vendors for you to discover! Make your way to www.computicket.co.za to make sure you get your space in the grandstands on Saturday and Sunday. If you’d like to up the game and book a VIP experience for Sunday, go to www.kyalamiparkclub.co.za.

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TABARD EQUINE LOTION

STOPS INSECTS BUGGING HORSES

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he 2016 congress of the South African Equine Veterinary Association marked an important milestone for Acorn Group as owners of the Tabard brand, when the company was able to confirm that its long-awaited equine insect repellent had been successfully registered as a stock remedy with the Department of Agriculture. This announcement coincided with the presentation of a case study “Conducting Insect Challenge Repellency / Efficacy Trials” by veterinary surgeon Dr. Glynn Catton. In the study, Dr. Catton discussed the efficacy of a DEET-based repellent such as Tabard Equine Lotion. Trials described in the study included recording the behaviour of mosquitoes (Aedes aegypti) house-flies (Musca domestica) and biting midges (Culicoides). The summary of the study concludes with the following points: • Effective Insect Repellent • DEET – Gold Standard • Long Lasting Repellency • Clinically Proven

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DEET is well known as a one of the most trusted active ingredients in human insect repellents and has been endorsed by the United Nations World Health Organisation (WHO). The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) name for DEET is N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide. It was originally developed by the U.S. Army in the 1950’s for protection of military personnel in insect-infested areas. The formulation was registered in the United States for use by the general public in 1957, and has been commercially marketed as a personal insect repellent ever since. As a point of interest, the use of insect repellents containing DEET was also highly recommended during the recent Rio Olympics, due to widely publicised concerns over the Zika virus outbreak in Brazil. Consequently Acorn Group offered to donate sufficient units of Tabard to ensure all Team South Africa’s athletes and officials were provided with a selection of their products. The donation was accepted by SASCOC, resulting in Tabard being named as an official supplier to South Africa’s olympic - and paralympic sportsmen and women.


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through instinct Photos by Gabriele Boiselle

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rom the past to create the present, in order to believe in the future. This is the continuing philosophy of Sean Rees-Gibbs, the man behind Skyroo Stud. It is here that the Rees-Gibbs family put their passion for the Arabian breed into practice, having created a “Life to Love� through their belief that the appreciation of their horses’ instinct brings them to a greater understanding of life, a belief they pledge to share with future owners of their horses. Their vision for the future is a breeding programme that will focus primarily on Arabian influence because of their wonderful traits and instincts, which will compliment the lines in place and produce a horse with height, conformation, temperament, balance, power and beauty - all qualities which are vital when it comes to their vision of success. Their belief in strict principles of natural horsemanship with no enhancing materials or unnatural training, and the nurturing based on individual personalities of their horses will determine acquisitions, and horses will be matched with prospective owners accordingly. Issue 28 SPORTING HORSE

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Getting to know

By Caroline Malan, The PR Machine Photos by T&B Images

Oscar Ncube

He’s quiet and keeps to himself. He’s patient, polite and calm. But do not underestimate the steely determination; unparalleled passion; unrivalled work ethic as well as the upmost self-belief that is: Oscar Ncube.

O

scar Bongani Ncube is crazy about pasta; REALLY scared of heights and borderline obsessed with music. He says his worst riding habit is that he twists his body in the air, “I hate it – it drives me crazy… but I’m working on it!” he smiles.

fall, I find that I just get back on with even more determination – I will not let anything get in my way or give up: I will continue to get up and try again. I generally do not get scared when it comes to horses: experiencing fear distracts my way of thinking so I do my best to avoid it as I need to concentrate on what I’m doing!”

“I was born in Alexandra, Johannesburg and I have one brother and one sister. If the riding career didn’t work out for me I think I would’ve been doing something in music – I absolutely love music!”

“In my opinion, Oscar has great feeling and empathy for horses,” says Team Nissan Show Jumping captain Barry Taylor. “He is a great producer of young horses as it takes feeling and patience which he has. He’s a hard worker and is passionate about the sport and is in the process of building a team of great horses – if he had a GP horse he could ride as well as anybody. His greatest attribute is that he is a team player, and I reckon his only major challenge is that sometimes he can be a bit hard on himself.

The keen sports fanatic says he keeps abreast of most sports especially Formula 1, football and athletics, and smiles when he says that he definitely loves horses more than people! “I started riding horses when I was only 7 years old! My mother was working for a lovely lady, and she had horses on her property. I had the privilege of being taught by her, and was fortunate enough to learn on her horses. My passion for showjumping started then, and soon after that, I decided that I wanted my career and future to circulate around horses. To this day I actually I don’t have any regrets as I’ve learnt from my mistakes and I strive continuously to better my riding. My motto in life is “Ungahlekhi ominye ngoba kusasa nguwe!” – which translated means ‘Don’t laugh at someone, tomorrow it might be you!’ In terms of picking myself up again after a bad ride or

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Wife Lorette Knowles-Taylor echoes Barry; “He’s a great rider because of his empathy towards the horse and his constant striving to improve himself. His knack is the youngsters - he works slowly and carefully with them – which is a quality every young showjumper needs. The young horses respond well to Oscar as he does the ground work with them and coupled with that, he’s a man who backs himself – so even before they are taught to jump, they trust him implicitly. In terms of his work ethics, I think he’s missed one day of work with us…which was when he had chicken pox! Oscar always has my back, no matter what


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the situation. He’s a team player and we’re lucky to have him both at Farnham Stables and in Team Nissan. His dry sense of humour keeps us amused during our morning sessions!” The rider who is currently competing on 6 horses, rates Aquablade as his best ever horse as they got up to Grand Prix level. He elaborates on his current competition horses; “Elite Rhythm (by Udokes/Rhythm of the Wind) is a 6 year old mare, very quirky and a lot of fun! She’s jumping 1.20m and she belongs to Lorette.Then Poker LS (by Mezcalero/Pavlova La Silla) is 12 years old, extremely laid back and LOVES carrots! He’s jumping 1.30m/1.35m with me and belongs to Liesl Jansen. New Rossee (by Now or Never M/Romana) is 7 years old and is a very tough chick but super brave! She is jumping 1.30m and belongs to Tamar Gliksman. Callaho Le Padino (by Lissabon/ Zidria) is 6 years old, sensitive and very scopey. He is jumping 1metre currently, and belongs to Barry. Companeiro’s Son (by Companeiro/Malina) is 5 years old, very playful with a super jump! He is currently jumping 1metre, and belongs to Quinten Jansen. Nissan Titanic (by Cavalier/unknown.) is 16 years old. He thinks he’s unbreakable, he thinks he’s the King and best nothing gets in his way! He is jumping 1.50m and belongs to Lorette.I’ve been asked before if I feel pressurised riding other people’s horses – and very good horses at that, but I honestly don’t feel the pressure. – I am normally the one who pressurizes myself to perform well for the owners! I’m actually really lucky with the owners of the horses that I ride, as they trust me and they 70

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respect the hard work that I put in as I always put in 110%!” The quietly spoken Oscar says that the biggest challenge is to find a good horse in this sport, “The best way to get your top horse is to produce it yourself hopefully you find one that is good enough to reach the open grades. It may take a while but it will be worth it. Working with Barry and Lorette is very educational, as you learn something new every day – both riders continuously keep up to date with the latest riding techniques overseas, which serves us well back home. I must say that I am extremely grateful to be part of the team! The sport does need help though: I would love for the sport to be marketed more in order to increase the audiences that are not involved in horses, but would love to come watch a show nonetheless or even watch on TV. In that way we would get a lot more interest as well as sponsorships.” His friends would describe him as way too serious, but Oscar insists that generally he’s quite reserved; “I am always thinking of my next plan…with the horses! My short term goal for instance is to end off the year on a podium! My long term goal: To have a few good horses jumping the open grades! Riding has taught me many lessons, most especially to have patience and to stay humble: this combination will take you far in life. Riding gives me freedom and coupled with the power of a good horse underneath me, being in the saddle certainly is my happy place.”


2014 Best Friesian Breeder in the world as named by KFPS

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

Youngstock, Broodmares, Stallions & Horses Under Saddle FOR SALE. Contact us for a viewing appointment.

Altie Clark - Sales 083 299 1356

Marlise Botes - Owner 083 263 7800 Issue 28 SPORTING HORSE

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THE EVOLUTION OF THE FRIESIAN SPORT HORSE

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he Friesian Horse is a breed that has always been evolving and looking back to the breed a hundred years ago it is clear that it has not stopped evolving yet. There are many differences but also a lot of similarities. The breed characteristics of a long flowing mane, black colour and prominent feathers and tail have all stayed unchanged and the biggest changes have been in the build where the focus has shifted towards a more modern horse with longer legs, less sloping croup and more expressive head. The importance of the elevated front has become more and

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By Altie Clark

more pronounced and this has also led to a strong and propelling hind leg. All of these changes have resulted in the Friesian becoming stronger and more suitable for a number of equine sporting disciplines. Dressage is by far the biggest segment in Equestrian Sport and with the performances of Friesians in the recent Young Horse Dressage competition held country wide, it is clear that the evolution towards a more modern Friesian suitable for dressage has been greatly successful. The top scores reached in the series of up to 84% were by young Friesians


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and is testament to the work put in by breeders and trainers to steer the breed in the direction of sport success. There are currently also a number of Friesians competing in Grand Prix all over the world and this also shows how suitable the Friesian is to dressage in both temperament and natural talent. In Europe there are currently three Friesian stallions competing in Grand Prix, in Australia two, United States three and South Africa had the privilege of having Anders 451 arriving in January 2016 when he was imported by owner Nicky Pienaar from Adelprag Friesian Stud. Chere Burger riding for Adelprag Friesian Stud took Anders to the biggest stage of dressage when she was the first person in history to compete on a Friesian at the World Equestrian Games in 2014 in French Normandy. With the above mentioned in mind it is very useful to explain and better understand the IBOP test used by KFPS judges to assess the suitability of a particular horse towards dressage, driving or show driving. IBOP stands for ‘Instelling Bruikbaarheid Onderzoek voor Paarden en Pony’s’(Institution Utility Examination Horses and Ponies) and the function of this test is to gather data of individual horses that will give owners and the KFPS judges a better idea into the breeding value of a horse. The rider’s talent or ability is not assessed at all and correct presentation of the horse is cardinal to show 74

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off the paces, suppleness, transitions and impulsion. The Walk, Trot, Canter and Balance are each counted twice and then additional scores are given for suppleness, transition and impulsion. The maximum score in an IBOP test is 110. The IBOP test is recognised all over the world and will be judged by two jury members appointed by the KFPS, the results are also publicised in the Dutch Phryso magazine as well as on the KFPS website (www.kfps.nl) The Friesian is a breed that is keeping up with the times and with the massive amounts of natural talent, good temperament and amazing work ethic it is understandable why more and more people are gravitating towards this breed as a new and exciting option for dressage amongst other equine disciplines. Breeders are held to international standards put out by the KFPS and that is why only horses of exceptional quality are allowed into the Studbook. The official breed goal of the KFPS reads ‘a functionally and harmoniously built sport horse possessing all Friesian breed characteristics, that is healthy and vital and with plenty of aptitude for sport performance.’ And with this in mind the Friesian horse becomes a big player on the field of Equestrian sport. For more information on the breed go to www.fpssa.co.za or www.kfps.nl or contact Altie Clark on 083 299 1356.


Chere Burger and Adelprag Laes Fan’t Aldjiip winner of the 5yr old championship

SOUTH AFRICAN YOUNG DRESSAGE HORSE SERIES

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By Simone Howarth | Photos by Jacqui S Photography

n an effort to bring young horse classes in South Africa up to the level of the FEI young horse classes, H&R Dressage ran a Young Horse Dressage Series for 2016 and beyond. We recognised that the current FEI Young Horse tests are a level above the average young horse in this country.Through the exposure of horses and the education of riders by our local and international judges, we aim to uplift the standard of South Africa’s young horses parallel to that of the FEI standard.We further hope that this series will encourage greater participation in dressage and grow the sport as a whole. Our motivation for promoting a young horse series is due to Simone Howarth’s experiences with the national and international young horse circuit in Europe with her horse, Show Special, then ridden by Zilla Pearse, along with Simone’s current work and interest in producing various local young horses through her business, Howarth and Riders Dressage. Mickey van der Merwe, a pupil of Simone’s, became involved with the scribing and scoring of the Young Horse classes at the South African Dressage Championships 2015, where she was highly

commended by the international judges for her efficiency and high level of competence. It became apparent at the South African Dressage Championships that a dedicated team was needed to run and organise a young horse series and we became interested in taking this on board. FORMAT Gauteng, Kwazulu Natal and Western Province took part in the series in 2016. Each province organised a minimum of 3 qualifying shows throughout the calendar year, cumulating in a Provincial Championship show. As a requirement for the Provincial Championship show, horse and rider combinations must have competed in at least 2 of the qualifying shows. The top 5 horse and rider combinations of each age group at the Provincial Championships were filmed. The top three of these are going forward to the National Championship.This series ran as unaffiliated classes, where no points gained was be added to the horse’s grading points. Horses and riders competing in the series must be registered with DSA but was not required to ride within its current DSA grade. Each province was responsible

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GAUTENG CHAMPIONSHIPS 4 YEAR OLDS: 1st Place Adelprag Orlando Van Doorndraai with 82.0% Owned and ridden Chere Burger 4 year old South African bred Friesan Stallion By Tjalf 443 Sport out of a Friso Fan Sport mare Bred by the Doorndraai stud 2nd Place Jolanda van Doorndraai with 81.6% Owned by Marlise Botes Ridden Alida de Jager 4 year old South African bred Friesan Mare By Tjalf 443 Sport out of a Fetse 293 mare Bred by the Doorndraai stud

Chere Burger and Adelprag Orlando Van Doorndraai 4yr old winners

for the running and organising of its series of qualifiers and Provincial Championships within these set guidelines. In 2016 there was 4 different age categories: 4 year old, 5 year old, 6 year old and 7 – 9 year old classes.The 4, 5 and 6 year old classes were judged like the FEI Young Horse classes, with marks being given for walk, trot, canter, submission and general impression. The 7 – 9 year olds were judged and scored as a normal, complete tests. Throughout the course of the series, the tests increased in difficulty within the grade for the age group, cumulating in test 4 of each grade being ridden at the championship show. The exception was the 7 – 9 year old horses who only rode Medium test 1 and 2. The grades were: 4 Year Olds: DSA Prelim 5 Year Olds: DSA Novice 6 Year Olds: DSA Elementary 7 – 9 Year Olds: DSA Medium As per the norm for young horse dressage classes, there were two or three judges, all seated at C, all consulting on the mark given. In the interest of transparency and aligning this series to the FEI young horse classes, it is essential that the judges give feedback to the riders and public after each horse rider combination.This is both educational and increases interest from the spectators and other competitors. This only applied to the 4, 5 and 6 year old classes. 7 – 9 year olds were judged as a normal test and therefore were provided with comments only on their test sheets and not over the loud speaker

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3rd Place Ordep Silhouette with 76.0% Owned by Rose Michaletos Ridden by Anthea Michaletos 4 year old South African Warmblood mare By Sir Oldenburg out of the highly successful dressage mare, Ulivia STV who is by Olivi 4th Place: Gracia SVU with 72.3% Owned and Ridden by Carla van der Merwe 4 year old Imported KWPN mare By Belissimo M out of Oneta H who is a Beltain mare 5th Place: Loes van Doorndraai with 63.2% Owned by Marlise Botes Ridden by :isa-Sue Hoffmann 4 year old South African bred Friesan mare By Tjalf 443 Sport out of a Friso Fan S Sport mare Bred by Doorndraai stud

5 YEAR OLDS: 1st Place Adelprag Laes Fan’t Alddjip with 84.0% Owned and ridden by Chere Burger 5 year old imported Friesian stallion By JIsse 433 out of a Jasper 366 mare 2nd Place Ambeck Ferego with 80.0% Owned by Shiree Darley Ridden by James White 5 year old South African Warmblood stallion By Funderdell out of Cellehof Zilla


3rd Place Adelprag Hilton with 72.4% Owned and ridden by Andri Du Plessis 5 year old South African bred Friesian stallion By Haye Fan Fallingasate out of a Winkke 404 mare 4th Place Callaho Lisandor with 66.8% Owned and Ridden by Claudia Cloete 5 year old South African Warmblood Hanoverian registered gelding By Lissabon out of a Landor S mare 5th Place Arop Nianell with 63.4% Owned and ridden by Firn Hyde 5 year old Nooitgedachter mare By Arop Maroela out of a Arop Lukas mare

6 YEAR OLDS:

Chere Burger and Quick Silver winner of the 7-9yr old championship

PROVINCIAL CHAMPIONSHIP In Gauteng where we had a large number of entries there was a qualifying class on the first day of the Provincial Championships and the top 5 horses in each age group competed on the second day in a Championship class. For each age group a Provincial Champion, 2nd and 3rd place was awarded. NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP During the Championship class at each of the Provincial Championships, the tests were filmed.The filming of the provincial Championship classes was done by Nicki Vet who traveled to each province.The tests were filmed from a set position next to C at a set distance away from the arena. The video of the top three horses from each Province in each age group will be submitted to a FEI Young Horse judges and a judge from SA. The combination of the two judges will be used to calculate an average score for each horse and rider combination to determine a National Champion. In 2016 FEI visiting judge, Peter Holler and SA judge, Suzanne Horne will be judging the National Championships. SPONSORSHIP AND PRIZES Arco360 very generously sponsored all of the rosettes for the series, as well as sponsoring towards the cost of filming the top 5 horse rider combinations of each age group at the Provincial Championships.They have also very generously sponsored quarter sheets for the National Champion in each age group. For the Gauteng Championship, we were very privileged to have Western Shoppe sponsor beautiful daysheets for the winners, headcollars for the second places and vouchers for the third places of each age group. Equi Cool Horse Hydrotherapy Spas sponsored vouchers for the first, second and third place of each age group, and H&R Dressage kindly sponsored trophies for the winner in

1st Place Tierra Piquena Zenith with 66.0% Owned and ridden by Nikita Brittain 6 year old SAW stallion By Zuidpool out of Spurwing Odessa who is by Mossandi Demascus

7-9 YEAR OLDS: 1st Place Adelprag Quick Silver with 69.63% Owned and ridden by Chere Burger Imported Oldenburg gelding By Quaterback out a Stedinger mare 2nd Place Adelprag Alwin with 66.62% Owned by Chere Burger Ridden by Wium Van Huyssteen Imported Friesan Stallion By Tsjerk 328 out of a Teunis 332 mare 3rd Place Chabal’s Dimaggio with 59.41% Owned and Ridden by Jessie Van Eck SAW gelding By Uron M out of a Zadoc mare 4th Place Vincent the Viking with 57.28% South African bred Friesian Stallion By Wieber van Doorndraai out of a Loret mare Bred by the Benmare Black stud 5th Place Sonnentanzer with 55.07% Owned and ridden by Stafford Robinson Importer Oldenburg Stallion By Sir Donnerhall out of a mare by the Thoroughbred stallion Noble Roi

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Nikita Brittain and Tierra Piquena Zenith 6yr old winners

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each age group. Without our fantastic sponsors this series could not have been as successful as it was.   GAUTENG CHAMPIONSHIP SA Young Dressage Horse Series Gauteng Championships was held on 27 and 28 August at Fourways Riding Center. As we had 5 or more horses qualify to compete in the Championship show in all but the 6 year old class, a qualifier was held on the Saturday. The top 5 combinations of each age group were then invited to compete on Sunday in the Championship class. The judges for the qualifying classes were Judy Vertue, Susan Human and Maureen Dalglish. The judges for the Championship classes were Ute Shutz, Claire Bailes and Debi van Wyk. For the 4, 5 and 6 year old classes, horses were judged on their walk, trot and canter, as well as submission and general impression.The 7 – 9 year old horses were judged as per a normal dressage test. We wish to say a very big thank you to our very generous sponsors. Arco360 Equine Insurance for sponsoring rosettes throughout the series, as well as goodie bags for the Championship classes, Western Shoppe for sponsoring beautiful daysheets for the winners, headcollars for the second place and vouchers for the third place of each age group. Equi Cool Horse Hydrotherapy Spas sponsored vouchers for the first, second and third place of each age group, and H&R Dressage kindly sponsored trophies for the winner in each age group.Without our fantastic sponsors this series could not have been as successful as it was. Here follows the complete results from the Championship classes.


Saskia Rosenmann and Noble Peer - Winner of Junior Novice Provincial Championship

2016 MARK WHITE NISSAN EQUITATION SUPER LEAGUE FINALS

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By Yvonne Bolton | Photos by Mark Tolmay & Bold Photography

ourways Riding Centre really pulled out all the stops on Sunday 11th September for the holding of the 2016 Mark White Nissan Equitation Super League Finals and the Gauteng Equitation Championships. Marion Clough and her team from Fourways along with the help of James Vella had the Milton Arena looking it’s sparkling best with masses of amazing branding, which set off the top quality jump equipment that Fourways are renowned for as a SHB. The day started bright and early with the Welcome Equitation Classes, proceeding smoothly throughout the day. This was entirely thanks to the efficient announcing of Michaela

Thonger and her equally competent recorder/co-announcer, Roger Biermann, who kept the competitors flowing through the Milton Arena without any unnecessary delays. Regrettably, it was not possible this year, due to time restraints, to halt the classes for the fantastic luncheon that was once again hosted by the Gauteng Equitation Committee. The entire area under the Lapa and adjoining the Milton Arena, including the tables, etc., were beautifully decorated by Kelly Noone from Sun Valley Stables. The theme has always been centred round the Nissan colours and this year was no exception. It provided a really festive atmosphere for the VIP guests who naturally included Mark White and his charming

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Hanna Boon - Winner of the Pony Rider Open Nissan Super League Victrix Ludorum and Gauteng Provincial Championships, 2nd place Lia Wheeler, wth judge, Elaine Deverneuil

RESULTS PR Welcome: Mikyla Mutungara PR Novice: Kiara Burn PR Intermediate: Jason Slade PR Open: Hanna Boon JNR Welcome: Juliana Veenis JNR Novice: Gemma Pike JNR Intermediate: Kaylin du Toit JNR Open: Daniella Machine Adult Welcome: Landi Grobler Adult Novice: Carly Patten Adult Intermediate: Christine Pike

son Slade Winner of the PR Intermediate Gauteng Equitation Championship on the Podium with the Judge, Sigi Sauter and Mark White.

Mark White Nissan Super League Luncheon

Kelly du Plessis on Bentley competing in the PR Intermediate Class

wife Mel, Peter & Selma Morrison, Peter being Chairman of the Gauteng Show Jumping Committee, and Simon Burn of Midfeed’s Tack & Togs.

which read “PROUD SPONSOR OF THE MARK WHITE SUPER LEAGUE SERIES” which endorses the Committee’s appreciation of this magnanimous sponsorship.

In addition, all the competitors and their parents, along with the officials and coaches were invited to enjoy the superb spread and the Gauteng Equitation Committee were enormously grateful to Fiona Butcher, who single-handedly provided all the amazing catering for this very popular function.

Finally the long day finished with the Open Equitation Classes, where the competitors were not numerous, however the standard was extremely high and certainly all the riders and parents experienced a very special conclusion to the Super League Series for 2016.

A brief interlude prior to the commencement of the luncheon allowed Shelly Beckbessinger, Vice President of SAEF, to express the Gauteng Equitation Committee’s enormous gratitude to Mark White for his more than generous support of the Super League Series. Shelly also presented Mark with a Soft Shell Jacket with the inscription on the back

Finally the Gauteng Equitation Committee would also like to extend their thanks to Midfeed’s Tack & Togs for the wonderful vouchers which they donated to the top riders. They would also like to thank all the loyal volunteers, who gave of their time to assist at the Show. Without their valuable support it would not be possible to hold shows of this magnitude.

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HIGHVELD HORSE CARE UNIT – OUTREACH PROJECTS

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By Bev Seabourne

he HHCU not only investigates cases of reported cruelty and neglect of horses and donkeys – we have a whole team dedicated to improving the lives of working equines, through assistance to the animals, and education of Government employees in the Agricultural Sector and horse and donkey owners and drivers.

The Outreach Project Team is managed by Nadia Saunderson, and the team comprises of Solly, Kabelo, Samson, Ishmail, Joseph and Makhosini. All are great people who are truly compassionate towards the welfare of the horse, and the upliftment of the owner through education and skills development.

We currently have projects running in Gauteng, Limpopo, NW Province, Free State, Mpumalanga, N Cape and Lesotho. Each month, we visit on average 5 areas. The selection criteria for areas in which we work is a high equine population, high dependency on the equine by the owner to earn a living, and a lack of any formal professional or welfare assistance for the wellbeing of the horse and donkey.

So far this year, we have assisted 2082 working equines. We have educated 976 owners and drivers. In each area that we work, after horse care and welfare training seminars, the community selects individuals who receive further training in basic farriery, harness-making and repair, suitable cart manufacture, first aid and identification

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of disease. These people in turn assist the community with welfare problems. We feel that education is vital, and although realistically this is a long-term project, we can see that we are creating awareness and in turn, an improvement in the general condition of the animals. Direct assistance is given to animals that are brought to our clinics. Where possible, we take a veterinarian with us to assist with more serious problems.

costs of this. An Equine Dentist donates his services free of charge and accompanies us at least once a year to each project area to ensure that dental problems are addressed. In each province, we have tried to involve the Department of Agriculture and Veterinary Services, so that we can work together to address equine welfare issues. Although we have had to assist with the education of many of the technical staff, they have provided great support and we believe that their involvement is going to make our projects more sustainable.

Old and unsuitable saddlery and harnessing is exchanged for donated second hand items, or repaired and fitted on site. TOGETHER WITH OUR SUPPORTERS, De-worming is important to ensure that the working animals SPONSORS AND FRIENDS, WE HAVE TRULY maintain condition, and a small fee is charged to help cover MADE A DIFFERENCE!

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SARTOR AMADEUS

Stallion whom passed full performance testing Sartor Amadeus KNN main book Knabstrupper imported from Denmark. Seen here during the dressage section of the performance testing.

The Knabstrupper A successful breeding system By Dr Marna Smith | Photos by Tracy Robertson and Tania Horsford

The Danish-horse breed, the Knabstrupper, has been around since the early 1600’s and was established in South Africa with the importation of the first main book registered horses in 2011.

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he Knabstrupper horse is of warmblood type suitable for higher levels of competition with the same colour genetics as that of the Falabella, Appaloosa and Noriker. The Knabstrupper is the only “spotted or coloured” breed whose breeding is based on performance evaluation or performance testing. We also see this system at work in all the major European warmblood studbooks like that of the Hanoverian and KWPN. Breed selection based on performance evaluation is of special benefit to sport horse breeders whose aim is to produce offspring of a consistent type since a solid genetic basis can be established with a higher frequency of desired genes for athletic performance. Prospective buyers also have the opportunity to gain, since their future competition horse can be selected at a younger age based on early known potential predictions.

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The young KNN Main book Knabstrupper stallion, Tresaison Harlem whom passed his pre-licensing owned by Anle Hartley�

SARTOR DANISH DESIGN

Imported KNN Main Book Knabstrupper Mare.

Sartor Amadeus, during the stallion performance testing. Danish judges evaluating him.

Performance evaluation in competition horses is based on specific tests to determine the horse’s potential and durability for certain riding disciplines. Comprehensive testing that includes multiple evaluations with test riders over several days, where certain variables can be fixed (like the environment), is ideal for such a system to be exploited at a maximum level. However, the latter is not always possible in a country like South Africa where government funding is limited and testing institutions are expensive to set up and to maintain. This is where we rely on traveling judges trained by a known mother book body for consistent and objective evaluation to eliminate biasness and compare on an international level. Although each breed society may have their own selection criteria, depending on the breed practice, performance testing is to a large extent consistent for horses used for sporting disciplines. The Knabstrupper mother book society based in Denmark (KNN) has different levels of approval where an individual can be

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registered, graded and licensed. Firstly, main book Knabstrupper registration is based on acceptable full pedigree, and secondly, grading of youngsters and mares is based on temperament, conformation, type and loose movement evaluations. Thirdly, full licensing of mares and stallions for breeding purposes is based on all of the above including dressage, jumping and endurance with rider and appointed test rider as well as free jumping all after the initial full vet examination and identification. Unique to the Knabstrupper is the endurance section of testing, since this part takes into consideration the durability potential of the horse during competition. The endurance test is performed after the completion of the other evaluations. Endurance assessment takes place on a circular track where specific distances, for all three gaits under saddle, should be covered in a specific time frame followed by immediate veterinarian assessment. A very valuable attribute, since a horse can be very talented in the other aspects like jumping technique or quality of movement, but


SARTOR AMADEUS

Stallion whom passed his full performance testing. KNN main book Knabstrupper. Seen here during the endurnace section of the performance testing.

without endurance, the horse has a higher tendency to develop unsoundness after completion of a competition. Evaluation of endurance ability can thus be used as an indirect selection tool for longevity.Also a strong focus point of the Knabstrupper evaluation system is that for temperament and rideability of the horse since in most sport horse studbooks this trait is overlooked. From a genetic point a view these objective scores with full pedigrees create the platform for future individual breed value calculation and estimation.This would enable increased selection intensity for specific traits to be used in a structured breeding program and enable breeding of discipline specific horses as the race expands over the next couple of years. The success of the Knabstrupper breeding system is already transparent in the victory achieved by the breed with a high proportion of them competing at Olympic level, specifically within the Paralympic sphere, where they are suited since they are such loyal, talented animals. An impressive achievement for a

breed with more or less 2000 individuals graded world-wide. Up to date the 67 year old, five time gold medallist, Anne Dunham, is presenting the Knabstrupper breed at the Rio Paralympic Games 2016 with her horse, Lucas Normark as a representative for Great Britain. South Africa has seen its first Knabstrupper inspection in July 2016 with European judges. This offered South African Knabstrupper breeders and owners the opportunity to have their stock graded and licensed based on the international Knabstrupper evaluation system. We had an astonishing full program with stallions, mares and first South-African born young stock that contributed to the presentation of ten horses.The selective importation of high quality KNN parental horses, with specific focus on the influential European sire Figaro af Hallundbaek, was proven worthy in terms of the national young stock that were presented at the event who obtained premium status with scores of only 8 and 9’s for the respective traits.Those who completed the full performance

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Sartor Pashmina, KNN main book Knabstrupper mare, whom passed her full performance testing. Seen here during the show jumping section with rider Sabina van der Helm

testing obtained good marks that resulted in the life time approval and licensing of the stallion, “Sartor Amadeus” and the mares “Sartor Pashmina”, as well as “Time to Shine”.The young stallion, Tresaison Harlem, passed his preliminary licensing while the mares Sartor Danish Design, Mosaic, Majestic Andromeda, Lady Serendipity and Dageraad Venus were graded together with the youngsters, Majestic Phantom’s Opera, Majestic Donatella and Majestic Fedora. Sartor Pashmina was definitely the highlight of the performance testing who obtained very high marks of mostly 9’s during the different evaluation sections and was awarded overall premium status with the passing of the full performance test. She is a valuable asset to the South African Knabstrupper breeding population since she is one of very few in the world who could achieve this and has established her supremacy as a producer of equal quality offspring. The two offspring out of this mare by the same sire, Figaro af Hallundbaek, obtained premium status with very high marks for their expressive movement and modern type.

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The filly, Time to Shine, who completed and passed full performance testing. Seen here during the dressage section with test rider Michael Peiser


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Eventing Pony Rider Open competitor Jana Nothnagel and My Rocket

2016 SA JUNIOR, CHILDREN’S AND PONY RIDER U18 CHAMPIONSHIPS By Esla Du Plessis | Photos by T&B Images

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The 2016 South African Championships for Junior, Children and Pony riders was hosted this year by Gauteng.

ver 500 young equestrians represented their provinces competing over a period of 9 days from 1st to 9th July. Historically, a separate championship was held for Juniors and Pony Riders, but this year a combined event was held for all Under 18’s in the Equitation, Eventing, Jumping and Showing disciplines.

an event to recognise the top riders in their fields. The SA Provincial Team Championships also add another dimension to the competition as selected riders compete both as individuals and as team members for their province. Whilst for many classes the team championships are combined in the same class as the individual, for the open levels a separate and hotly contested team championship is run.

Each discipline runs classes from Novice rider levels through to Open which is the highest category. This builds and encourages skills for the less experienced whilst providing

The eventing discipline classes were run at Northern Farm and Fourways Equestrian Centre, with the rest of the disciplines being run at Kyalami Equestrian Park. Out of

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Show Jumping Open SA Junior Champion – Cheyenne de Beer and Pitu 014

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Equitation Junior Open SA Champion – Tegan Bruyns, Laurin Whitehouse from Style fragrances, Hidden Pleasure and his groom Mohammed

Equitation Open Junior winning team from Gauteng

Equitation Open Pony rider winning team from Kwazulu Natal

Show jumping Open Junior winning team from Eastern and Western Cape

INDIVIDUAL SA CHAMPIONS – RESULTS TABLE Eventing

Rider

Horse

Province

Pony Rider Open

Robyn Salter

Tatooine Legacy

Western Cape

Junior Open

Kimberly Cunningham

Rodeo Spin

Western Cape

Equitation

Rider

Horse

Province

Pony Rider Open

Hanna Boon

Charlie Davies

Gauteng

Junior Open

Tegan Bruyns

Hidden Pleasure

Gauteng

Jumping

Rider

Horse

Province

Pony Rider Open 1.10m

Ada Raine-Ferguson

Princess Leia

Western Cape

Pony Rider Open 1.20m

Jorja Rohrich

Tatooine Bobbysox

Eastern Cape

Children Open 1.10m

Matthew Morrison

MCSA Hundred Runds

Gauteng

Junior Open 1.30m

Cheyenne de Beer

Pitu 014

Gauteng

Showing

Rider

Horse

Province

Pony Rider Open

Lucy Brooks-Frances

Waterside True Sovereign

Gauteng

Junior Open

Mikaela Bos

Royal Insignia

Western Cape

TEAM SA CHAMPIONS – RESULTS TABLE Eventing

Province

Pony Rider Open Team

Western Cape

Junior Open Team

Western Cape

Equitation

Province

Pony Rider Open Team

Kwazulu Natal

Junior Open Team

Gauteng

Jumping

Province

Pony Rider Open Team

Eastern Cape

Junior Open Team

Eastern Cape & Western Cape

Showing

Province

Pony Rider Open Team

Eastern Cape

Junior Open Team

Gauteng

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province horses and ponies were stabled at Kyalami Park with 230 stables fully utilised. Entertainment events are always part of the experience and this year was no exception with the organisation of a Premier movie night at the new Mall Of Africa, a Grooms Soccer Evening and a Western themed Gala Evening. Support from GautengYards and Riders was crucial to hosting a successful 2016 SA Champs ranging from donations for Grooms gifts to Championship class prizes and sponsorship. Thank you to all who gave time, effort and donations making this a special event for our young equestrians. Thank you also to the disciplines and venue organisers, Chef D’Equipes, Course Designers and Officials. Class Sponsors Winning Rider Open Show Jumping – Macmobile, RH Equestrian & Praesignis Winning Rider Show Jumping – Blouberg Ryskool, Sunny Park Stables, Sunny Park Equestrian Club, Farnham/TopBet, DISA Stables, Lifestyle Financial Services, Country Life Properties, Cruisa Equestrian, Manor D’Or Equestrian, David Hyslop Farriers, Colourite Masterbatch. Winning Rider and Groom Gift hampers – Style Fragrances,Tsogo Sun& Dischem


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The Judges of the SA Open Junior Individual Equitation Championship Elaine de Verneuil, Mandy Johnston and Margie de Vrye With the Winner Tegan Bruyns

Chef d’Equipe, Anya Moller, with the Winning PR Intermediate Equitation Team Karolien Palmer, Jason Slade, Kelly du Plessis and Matthew Oliver Thomas

Kelsey-Rae Whitehouse, Tegan Bruyns and Daniella Mchine Prize Winners in the SA Open Junior Individual Equitation Championship

THE PONY RIDER & JUNIOR

SA EQUITATION CHAMPIONSHIPS 2016

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By Yvonne Bolton | Photos by T&B Images

he Pony Rider & Junior SA Equitation Championships were held at the beginning of July this year at the Kyalami Equestrian Park. Our grateful thanks must go, as always, to Kyalami Park Club and their Team who hosted a highly successful Show with everything running smoothly and efficiently over many days.

South African Equitation Championships. It was also all credit to our National Secretary, Leigh-Anne Scott, who worked tirelessly over the two days to ensure that the extensive paperwork was distributed timeously to all the Officials. She also had to organize the numerous Prize Givings in both Arenas along with all the wonderful prizes that were so kindly donated.

It was certainly a challenge for the Gauteng Equitation Committee to field a full complement of Master & National Judges and Officials to manage all the classes which ran concurrently in two arenas on both Sunday 2nd July and Monday 3rd July.

The tracks were expertly designed by both Kate Launder and Ryan Sander and provided just the correct measure of challenge and technical difficulty, which was required for the South African Equitation Championship courses.

We have to extend our appreciation to all the Judges and Officials who gave up their valuable time to assist at this

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Equitation was particularly grateful for the very striking and distinctive Sashes which were provided by Style Fragrances along with magnificent Gift Hampers filled to abundance


Hanna Boon on Charlie Davies Winner of the SA PR Open Individual Equitation Championship

with all their amazing products. The winner of both the PR & Junior SA Individual Equitation championship were also spoilt with a very generous weekend packages kindly sponsored by Tsogo Sun. After the event it was most gratifying to receive high praise from Mandy Johnston, well known Show Jumper and one of our Master Judges who judged the SA Junior Individual Equitation Open Class who had this to say about the standard: I had the privilege of being invited to judge the SA Junior Equitation Championship held this past week at KEP, and what a privilege it was. In the class of 17 competitors, nearly half were scoring marks of 18 and 19. These riders displayed a level of maturity in their riding, both on their own horses and the

strange horses, beyond what I have seen in equitation in a long time. This is testimony to the high level of instruction available to our young riders today, which is in keeping with the whole basis of the original reason Charlotte Stubbs introduced this discipline to this country all those years ago. It was interesting to note a lot of the more experienced junior showjumpers partaking in this class as I believe that the “discipline� of correct equitation training which is intended to encourage classical riding skills, a knowledge of building a strong foundation in training, along with managing pressure, can only enhance a riders performance in the showjumping arena. It is also interesting to note the winner of the SA Junior Showjumping Championships was one of the high scorers in the Equitation Championships. Congratulations to all the prizewinners and their instructors.

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FOCUS ON NATURE CONSERVATION

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WORLD-CLASS GOURMET FOOD


Horses at the farm where we stayed

PHENOMENAL RIDING AT HICKSTEAD INSPIRES PHILIP SMITH WINNER

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he competition in this year’s Philip Smith Memorial Championship was excellent and any of the four competitors could have come out as the winner, so I was thrilled to be taking off for London with my coach, Kirsten Loots in July, and extremely grateful to the generous sponsor, Mary Slack and tireless organizer of this event, Yvonne Bolton. I was also grateful to Kirsten’s wonderful mare, Eagle’s Cosi Bay, who took me there. Special thanks also go to our generous hosts in Britain: Laura Clutton, who very kindly put us up; Jacqueline Beatham, a renowned UK judge, who was extremely kind and helpful, as well as Lizzie Bunn and all the people from the Hickstead Royal International Horse Show, who generously hosted us at the show, provided tickets and allowed us to walk the course on the final day. Tuesday, July 26. Our adventure began with a trip to the charming New Forest Show, a typical English agricultural show with ridden and in-

hand horse classes, driving, a daredevil exhibition of police riding through hoops of fire and removing their saddles at a canter, and even donkey showing classes. The sight of the huge, magnificent draught horses, including Clydesdales, Percherons and Shire horses was quite moving, and many people had tears in their eyes. Wednesday, July 27. En route to Hickstead we stumbled across Arundel Castle and an intriguing sign, pointing to a jousting competition. Could this be real? Curiosity got the better of us and we wandered into the castle grounds where men and women in full metal armour were actually jousting. The ancient sport has been modified for safety reasons and instead of knocking each other off their mounts, the lances broke quite easily. It was really spectacular and a woman tied for first place. Thursday, July 28. The Longines Royal International Show at Hickstead is one Issue 28 SPORTING HORSE

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Heavy horses at the New Forest Show

of the oldest horse shows in the world and a highlight on the British equestrian calendar, so it was an honour to be there. The event includes top showing classes with some of Britain’s most stunning horses, and top show jumping classes, including the FEI Furusiyya Nations Cup of Great Britain, the Template Events Queen Elizabeth II Cup and the Longines King George V Gold Cup. We watched the opening 1.50m classes in the show jumping in the morning followed by the Supreme Hunter Championship. I was grateful to see showing of such a high standard, since I have a particular interest in it because that helped me learn to ride as a child, and I know it is not as easy as the riders make it look. The International Arena at Hickstead is enormous, allowing the show riders to really open up during the gallop, a spectacular sight. During the winner’s lap of honor, the horses were joined by two hunt masters and a large group of hunting hounds, all of them barking and dashing forward in a surprisingly orderly pack.

We watched a jousting contest at Arundel Castle

They did an eventing-style course in the International Arena, with the Hickstead solid obstacles including the road jump, the terrifying Horse First Irish Bank, the Devil’s Dyke, and a small water complex in the arena. Pippa Funnell was announcing the event before heading off to Rio to ride. The striking thing was the speed and bravery of the riders, making it a very exciting event to watch.

Friday, July 29. It was inspiring to see some of the world’s top riders compete in the FEI Furusiyya FEI Nations Cup of Great Britain, one of 19 qualifers in the global series. This competition grew out of military competition and was originally launched in 1909 making it the oldest jumping competition in the world. These days, it is designed to encourage developing nations to compete on the global stage and to involve as many riders from as many countries as possible. The riding was extraordinary and the German riders were phenomenal. Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum rode two flawless clear rounds on her stunning grey, Fibonacci The Amlin Plus Eventers Challenge in the afternoon saw some 17, helping the German team to win. Ludger Beerbaum had no of the world’s most famous eventers take the field, including need to ride, since the German team was the only team on the great New Zealander, Mark Todd, who has long been zero penalties. What struck me was the coolness and technical one of my idols. It was amazing to see him riding in the flesh. prowess of the international riders. They were very chilled and

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very rhythmical. Their hands were quiet, they used their seats very effectively, and barely missed a stride. There was nothing hectic or exhausting about the picture, just pure smooth riding.

with British rider, Holly Smith on Lammy Beach in second place. They rode superbly and another Irishman in the event, Anthony Condon, performed beautifully in every class.

The British Olympic team member, Ben Maher was calm and collected and rode every stride perfectly. Another standout was the Irishman, Bertram Allen, who rode the speed classes with amazing speed and tight, accurate turns.

The last event of the day was the British Speed Classic, which, as the name suggests, was a fast speed class. Some of Britain’s younger riders took part and there were a few spills. A few people came to grief at the water jump, perhaps because of the tension of competing in such a big arena. It was won by Billy Twomey from Ireland.

Saturday, July 30. It was a packed schedule and an early highlight was the BMHS Supreme Miniature HorseChampionship with the tiny, beautifully turned out and well behaved little horses taking their turn in the International Arena, followed by many other fabulous classes. The driving class, the Osbourne Refrigerators Double Harness Scurry Championship was fast, furious and at times terrifying to watch, as the brave pony teams galloped through the cones, taking such breathtaking turns that the groom had to lean right out of the side of the carriage for balance.

Sunday July 31. I was very lucky to have the chance to walk the track for the King George V Gold Cup.This competition has been held since 1907, apart from a couple of breaks during the two world wars. It was a lovely grass surface, thanks to Britain’s often rainy weather. It is only when you walk the course that you get an appreciation for the vast size of the arena and its difficult, technical obstacles. There were plenty of tough lines and tricky related distances, enough to test some of the world’s best riders. The jumps The Queen Elizabeth II Cup was once an event for female were huge and intimidating, most of them built at 1.60m, a good riders only, but has been open to all riders since 2008.This year’s challenge for the many Olympic riders who would head straight class was won by Irish rider, David Simpson, riding Chessy 17, from Hickstead to Rio.

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The ‘ Gold Carriage ‘ at the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace

We were on the edge of our seats for the entire class, as nailbiting competition saw jumps topple and some riders eliminated. It ended in a jump off that was the best and most exhilarating I have ever seen. People were yelling and cheering for the riders, as they galloped towards the final enormous Longines oxer, right in front of us. The turns the competitors took in that final jump off, even into a huge combination, were unbelievable. It was an eye-opening and inspiring lesson on how to give it your all, to ride every single stride and to never give up, no matter how tough the competition. I got to see some my idols, including Tim Stockdale, whose video on show jumping helped teach me to ride when I was little, and Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum, another towering and inspiring figure.

At the end of it all, I was completely inspired. I was so grateful for the opportunity to watch the world’s best riders competing against one another right in front of my eyes. I learnt that one can be more effective by using quiet and soft aids, and by being more in sync with the horse, to create a harmonious parternship. I loved every minute of the show. It was the experience of a lifetime.

The sponsor of the Philip Smith Memorial Championship, Mary Slack, performs a great service to South African equestrian sport, allowing a young South African rider to travel overseas to gain an appreciation of the technical skills, the speed and the ability of the best riders on Earth. It is a great inspiration and a chance to learn what it takes to be among the best. I would also like to Tim Stockdale was one of the early clears in the jump off. underline how much work Yvonne Bolton puts in every year for His round was brilliant. I thought, ‘No-one can go faster than a competition that includes just four Junior riders. It is a huge task him!’ But the times just got faster and faster. The winner was a that she undertakes with grace and style. Special thanks also to phenomenal Irish rider, Billy Twomey, the last rider in the jump my coach Kirsten Loots who has been my support since I was off, who snatched the first place from the Dutchman, Wout-Jan just six years old, and also to Claire Webb, whose invaluable Van Der Schans, with an accurate, lightning-fast round. advice got our trip underway. Sylvia Dixon travelled to the Hickstead Royal International Show in July 2016, courtesy of the Philip Smith Memorial Championship Show and its sponsor, Mary Slack.

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SPORTING HORSE Issue 28


Belong with the broker that takes your business to heart.

Since 1996 horse and rider has been at the heart of what we do. As a business focused purely on equine insurance it has always been part of us and it’s why we see clients as part of us too. It’s also the reason we’ve used our knowledge to craft a complete range of equine insurance products. From mortality cover to critical care cover from horsebox cover to grooms health cover and beyond we protect those who belong with us. Shouldn’t you be? Immediate cover at affordable rates • MORTALITY COVER • LOSS OF USE COVER • CRITICAL CARE COVER • PUBLIC LIABILITY COVER • PERSONAL ACCIDENT COVER • SHU EQUINE VETERINARY INSURANCE • HORSEBOX COVER • TACK COVER • GROOMS HEALTH COVER

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Issue 28 SPORTING HORSE

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SPORTING HORSE Issue 28


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