Equilife Living the Lifestyle March 2017
Portrait ~ Arend Eloff • The Longines Hong Kong International Races DISTRIBUTION FREE NATIONWIDE
From the Publisher......
The Equilife Team
Marketing and Advertising Jacqueline Wood jacqui@equilife.co.za
Design and Production Michele Wood design@equilife.co.za
Content Editor
Colleen Mulrooney
Photography
Jacqui S Photography jacqui@equilife.co.za
In this issue we managed to scoop a huge International event with a South African connection, this was made possible by our racing contributor Ashleigh Hughes from ‘We Love Racing’, who put together a ten page article for our Turf Diaries on ‘The Longines Hong Kong International Races’, it was a real ‘Toure de Force ‘ enjoy!
Contributors Ashleigh Hughes Turf Diaries Catherine Hartley Beyond Racing Colleen Mulrooney Portrait Hannah Botha Stable Views Jean Hackland Polocrosse Leandri Joubert Endurance Lukas O’Connel Wine Review Sikhangele Mbambo A Grooms Insight
There is also a new monthly feature ‘Beyond Racing’ By Catherine Hartley, promoting retired racehorses, and there second career. Due to the longer Turf Diaries article, some of our regular features fell away in the March issue, all regular features will be back in April 2017. Let us know if you have any suggestions, that would enhance the Equilife readers. ‘Living the Lifestyle’
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Contents 13. Portrait ~ Arend Eloff Arend Eloff grew up in a family of creative people where his talent and natural ability was nurtured. His creativity trumped formal education when he chose to follow his heart.The result is a portfolio of impressive sculptures which capture the essence of his animal subjects.
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17. Polocrosse ~ A Family Sport
Polocrosse is a family sport. I played with my Dad and Uncle for most of my life before I married a polocrosse player. And now I have children who also play.
19. The Longines Hong Kong International Races The Hong Kong International Raceday is the biggest on their calendar. Unoffically known as the “World Turf Championships�, the meeting attracts competitive entries from all over the world, and the total prize money for the meeting is HK$83 Million. It takes place at the rather splendid Sha Tin Racecourse, and is always on the second Sunday in December,
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31. Beyond Racing ~ Promoting Retired Horses His antics in the paddock belie the fact that he is 22- As one of the naughtiest horses in the yard, he could be easily mistaken for a cheeky five year old! His looks are as striking as ever with a coat covered in dapples.
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During Rio Olympics, 2 medals out of 3 have been conquered by horses shod with either Mustad or St. Croix Forge shoes. We focus on the hooves.
Content 37.Endurance ~ Back to School I shall never forget standing at the start line of my first Tri-Nations event watching a rider on the South African team warming up her horse. She was trotting beautiful circles with her horse moving in a perfect frame, engaged, rhythmic and alert.
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44. Gaited Traveller ~ Boschendal Estate Working with nature, producing real food and a simple farm lifestyle is at the heart of Boschendal. One of the oldest farms in South Africa, founded in 1685, the farm has grown with the passing centuries into a cherished source of wholesome produce, great wines and happy memories.Â
Content Trending ~ Casabianca Equestrian
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The Sketch Pad ~ Driftwood by Vagari
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Wine Review ~ Frisky Zebras
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Portrait ~ Arend Eloff
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Polocrosse ~ The Family Sport
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Turf Diaries ~ The Longines Hong Kong International Races
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Beyond Racing ~ Promotoing retired Horese
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Stable Views
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Grooms ~Happy a Jack of all Trades
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Endurance ~ Back School
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Why Cold Therapy works
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Gaited Traveller ~ Boschendal Estate
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Hillary Hoofpick
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TRENDING
Trending
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THE SKETCH PAD
The
Sketch Pad Driftwood by Vagari I started Vagari in 2013, whilst I was still completing my articles. In the beginning of 2016, I decided to give up my career in law, to follow in my family s footsteps, creating beautiful and innovative décor products. It has been an interesting four years, with major learning curves, but I am happy to say that we now have a variety of different products, from gift cards and candles, to wooden nautical products, and one of a kind driftwood pieces. The driftwood side of my business all started on a family holiday to Plettenberg Bay, where we like to spend a lot of time. I came across a very talented artist, by the name of Ricardo Anderson, who at the time was only creating driftwood fish and the likes thereof. Having grown up around horses, and having a passion for them, Ricardo and I decided that a 3D driftwood horsehead would be a good place to start.
We have gone on to develop 3D driftwood Rhino heads, as well as one dimensional nautical animals, such as fish and whales – but my favourite piece will always be the horse head. There is something majestic about a horse, which I think combined with the unique pieces of wood in each one, creates a beautiful piece of art. The beauty of driftwood is that it is durable and works in conjunction with the elements; every drop of rain or ray of sunshine makes each piece even more unique, whilst not detracting from its solid form and durability.
Creating driftwood pieces of this magnitude is tricky, because you are dealing with individual pieces of driftwood, where no two are alike; so to create two which are the same is close to impossible. We decided on a horse head because of its beautifully structured jaw line; it gave Ricardo a really good basis from which to work. We chose to not create a mould, but to rather work off a standard jaw line, and create the remainder of the features as each piece of wood guided us. The result was that we had a few horse heads, which were similar, but every one was unique in its facial structure and features. Some looked like ponies, some like beautifully manicured thoroughbreds, and some just looked wild and untamed.
Should you be interested in placing an order for one of these horses, or you would like to find out more information on any of our other products, driftwood or otherwise, please feel free to contact me, Catherine, at info@vagari.co.za
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WINE REVIEW
Frisky Zebras – A Harem of Premium Wines By Lukas O’Connell
Frisky Zebras are the only Fairtrade® and CarbonNeutral® certified family of wines produced in South Africa. Every wine in this portfolio has won numerous gold medals. Exported to Europe and North America, these offerings are now finding a home in shops and restaurants in South Africa. It’s nice when you can sip a great glass of wine and help save the planet, too. That’s the philosophy behind the United Nations of Wine (UNOW), the purveyors of the Frisky Zebras portfolio of wines. As part of its Fairtrade® commitment, UNOW funds housing projects, daycare centres, school libraries, computer centres, after-school sports, youth and adult literacy programs, health care programs and other initiatives to benefit farm workers throughthe Fairhills Program. UNOW is also a member of the Wine and Agriculture Ethical Trade Association (WIETA) which makes sure wines are made to enjoy, not exploit.
ubuntu by wine lovers for wine lovers. We’re all part of a connected community. We respect our partners,our planet and you. We want you to enjoy a glass (or two) of our wines knowing that we’re all doing our part to preserve the best of our world for ourselves, our children and our grandchildren. Life is just too short to muck around any other way.” This deep commitment to ethical and environmental practices is matched by a deep commitment to producing the highest quality wines at the most affordable prices. With a large following in Canada, Europe, America and now parts of Africa, the Frisky Zebras collection of wines has earned over 25 gold medals in international 15 and domestic wine competitions plus over ‘Best Buy’ or ‘Best Value’ awards. An impressive tally for approachable and affordable wines. “A lot of people buy the wine for the cute label” admits Bate. “But they come back and buy it again and again and tell their friends to buy it because of the quality of wine we put inside every bottle. That’s how we’ve been able to grown on a shoestring budget against the big boys” he says. “Besides, have you ever met anyone who didn’t like a zebra?”
As a CarbonNeutral® certified company that delivers CarbonNeutral® certified wines, UNOW leaves no footprint behind except your enjoyment of its exceptional wines. Along with sustainable environmental practices, UNOW offsets its entire carbon footprint through renewable energy and resource conservation projects.
Bate earlier founded Leopard Frog Vineyards, a boutique cellar in Stellenbosch that handcrafts a few exclusive wines each year. “Leopard Frog handcrafts special wines that appeal to certain wine lovers. But we drink Frisky Zebras around our dinner table every night. My whole family loves the Sensuous Sauvignon Blanc.” There are currently nine wines in the Frisky Zebras portfolio:
Dr. David Bate, who holds a Master of Science from the Bordeaux Fairhills International School ChildrenWine Institute in France, founded UNOW in 2005. He says that “Our little company was formed in the spirit of
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WINE REVIEW Seductive Shiraz is a fruity wine that delivers flavours of black berries and black currents with nuances of mocha and melted dark chocolate. It has won three gold medals and an 87 point rating internationally.
Ravishing RosĂŠ is a new pinotage rosĂŠ release that delivers flavours of strawberries and raspberries with nuances of cassis and candy floss. It has won two gold medals.
Captivating Cabernet Sauvignon is a smooth wine that delivers flavours of black cherries and black berries with nuances of fresh herbs and mocha. It has won six gold medals and an 86 point rating internationally. Mystic Merlot is a robust wine that delivers flavours of baked blue berries and black currants with nuances of black peppers and espresso. It has won two gold medals. Provocative Pinotage is a soft and smooth wine that delivers flavours of black berries and black currants with nuances of spice and mocha. It has won two gold medals and an 87 point rating internationally. Sensuous Sauvignon Blanc is a luscious wine that delivers flavours of gooseberries and green apples with nuances of honey and vanilla. It has won five gold medals and an 87 point rating internationally. Sublime Chardonnay is a refreshing wine that delivers flavours of peaches and apples with nuances of butterscotch and honey. It has won two gold medals. Sultry Chenin Blanc is a zesty wine that delivers flavours of passion fruit with nuances of green apples and lemongrass. It has won three gold medals and an 87 point rating internationally. The full range is now available in South Africa at a growing number of wine stores and restaurants. Check them out on the web: www. unitednationsofwine or email the cellar info@ unitednationsofwine.com
Whispering White is a new Sauvignon Blanc/ Colombard blend that delivers flavours of tropical melon with a luscious lemon lime finish. It has won two gold medals.
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PORTRAIT
Arend Eloff
Movement and Grace in Bronze
By Colleen Mulrooney Arend Eloff grew up in a family of creative people where his talent and natural ability was nurtured. His creativity trumped formal education when he chose to follow his heart.The result is a portfolio of impressive sculptures which capture the essence of his animal subjects. You grew up in a creative family and you were immersed in art and creativity from a young age, casting your first bronze at 16. What made you continue on your sculpture path?
to follow my own inspiration. My interests and self study in anatomy, movement and symbolism started when I was young and continues to this day. I am always learning, practicing and trying new things.
I was advised to have a degree behind my name so I studied engineering for three years at university. I enjoyed drawing more than lectures, so it was inevitable that I ended up without a degree. I started selling drawings and paintings during my three year compulsory army stint. A year later, I took a leap of faith and started working towards an exhibition with my father. I had some sales and that made me believe there was a possibility of doing art as a profession. Soon after that, I started a bronze casting foundry so that I could be in charge of my own end product. That was the beginning of my winding path as a sculptor. Do you have a formal art degree and if so, where did you study? I attended some sculpture classes while studying engineering at university, but I wasn’t interested in political, emotional or abstract studies, so I decided
A pair of Arend Eloff’s rearing horses welcome visitors to the Golden Gate Casino in Pietermaritzburg
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PORTRAIT ‘Tom Cat’ A lifesize Saddler which was commissioned in Bronze
Who are the artists and sculptors that you’re influenced by? As a kid there were books by the old European masters in the house and I was fascinated by the sculpture and drawings. Da Vinci, Michelangelo and Rodin were a feast for the eye and young hands.
is necessary in the design, form and construction of all my sculptures. I have heaps of constructional drawings stacked away. It’s also therapeutic for expressing emotions. Anatomy is obviously important – how else could I create accurate representations of the animals I’m working on?
What or who inspires you? For the past 10 years I have been fascinated and intrigued by aspects of creativity, the mind and our place in the universe. My physical work is focused on nature, wildlife and horses as a practical way of expressing myself.
My clients in the equestrian and wildlife fields, where I work, are extremely knowledgeable about their animals and breeds. I need to impress them with my skills, so my study of form and anatomy is essential. There is a wealth of information to be conquered in the combination of anatomy books, photographs and observation. It never ends.
The symbolism of fantasy and mythical topics is also a source of thought and inspiration. I am almost fanatical about green and sustainable living ideas. We only have one planet.
Living in Africa, one is more likely to see the Big Five in bronze. What is your favourite animal subject?
You’ve said that your first love is drawing. How does that contribute to your work as a sculptor?
Usually the one I am working on. I believe I have mastered all horse breeds, animal forms, human studies and bird life. This combined knowledge is now woven into my mythical studies.
I strongly believe that drawing is a skill to practice, with the intention to develop the art of seeing and looking at life and subjects in a right brain way. It
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PORTRAIT
I have done some interesting sculptures of well known stud and race horses for private owners. I had a large commission for the front of the Golden Horse Casino. I’m currently working on an enormous commission – the construction of seven life-size Arabian horses in Dubai; and a large polo sculpture for Val de Vie.
Were horses an obvious subject for you? Why did you choose them and when did you do your first equine sculpture? I started horse commissions about 12 years ago. It took me a while to narrow my focus in that direction. However, it was something new and inspiring after a long wildlife cycle. Exploring the international market and shows, which were challenging and exciting, changed my life forever. A lot of my travelling is still combined with international shows.
What are the dimensions of your largest pieces? The the huge horses at the Golden Horse Casino are about 5m high.
Were horses something you were interested in?
What’s your biggest sculpture achievement so far?
As a kid I drew and made ceramic horse artworks. But I did not grow up with horses. They were a distant thought which became relevant later in my life.
To be able to make a good living from my art. How did that come about? Passion, perseverance, adaptability and dreams. A lot of consistent work.
Have you ever ridden or had your own horse? I have ridden many horses for fun and I am now looking to get more involved in endurance and adventure riding. I have the opportunity to own and breed horses sometime soon.
What logistics are involved in creating huge pieces? I create scale models and then upscale them through technology. The foundry team is a bronze and resin production site with many stages and artisans involved. There is no fast way to create the sculptures.
What are some of the well-known horse pieces you’ve done and who have you done them for?
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PORTRAIT Is your work exhibited publicly?
Could you walk us through your process? From conceptualising to building armatures to applying the clay and working in the round, to casting in bronze and transporting and installing the final piece.
I moved away from galleries many years ago and gained private clients through wildlife, horse and private shows. I have an expanding mailing list with digital catalogues of all my available artworks.
Once I’ve landed a commission or feel inspired to create a new artwork, my starting point is always a series of constructional drawings.
When did you get your first big break and how did that come about?
The initial structure of each sculpture is created with steel and foam, with a soft plasticine clay forming the outer detail. A silicone rubber and resin mould is then created. A new wax model is cast from this mould, and worked on to replicate the original model.
My first big break was probably the first show at the age of 23, which helped me believe it was possible to follow this path.
Next, a ceramic mould is crafted in layers. This mould is heated and baked to burn out the wax form.
Draw, work, believe in yourself, develop a sound knowledge of your subjects, keep learning and find new ways of marketing yourself. Study the market and its people and find something you can give them. It’s about creating a product and serving a market. New materials and cost effective products are important to consider in an emerging market.
Do you have any words of wisdom for aspiring sculptors?
Bronze is melted at about 1200˚C and poured into the ceramic mould. On cooling, the ceramic is broken off to reveal the bronze sculpture inside. The metal work combines welding, grinding, polishing and patinated chemical colouring to create a coloured or aged bronze artwork.
Building a name takes time but I know someone who is not famous but has become very rich from creating interesting chess sets. There are no limits to creativity.
You go to Abu Dhabi often. Do you have a lot of clients there?
Anything else of interest that you’d like to share?
I am continuously exhibiting in the UAE to establish myself as a noted artist. My work is always expanding in volume and clients.
True freedom is an inner feeling and linked to having no more fear – the only way to conquer your fears is the walk into them. There is a higher and more intelligent force that wants to guide your way. Follow your heart and your head. Boredom is not possible because there is so much to do, learn and experience.
What is the most challenging aspect of your work? Egotistical clients. How much money has your work raised for charities, like the Rhino Trust?
To join the Arend’s mailing list, send an email to arend@powerstar.co.za
Over R400 000
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POLOCROSSE
Polocrosse – The Family Sport
Peewee Polocrosse
By Jean Hackland
Polocrosse is a family sport. I played with my Dad and Uncle for most of my life before I married a polocrosse player. And now I have children who also play. When I see other families who don’t do any sport with their children I feel eternally grateful that polocrosse has been such a huge part of my life. Polocrosse has allowed me to spend hours of quality time on horse back and on the ground doing stick work, with my husband and children.
Polocrosse is a ball sport played on horses. There is a huge emphasis on hand-eye coordination and stick work as well as horsemanship and riding skills. At National level the SA team works closely with Sherylle Calder doing her EyeGym program which improves your handeye coordination and which we believe has helped us to win the last two world cups. We also concentrate on keeping ourselves as well as our horses fit.
we hold a major junior tournament called The Junior Classic, where children are entered individually and balanced teams are made up by the organisers. This is a fantastic tournament for children to play in as they learn to play with new people and get specialized coaching from experienced players who are allocated to each team to coach. An SA u14 team will be selected this year at the junior classic to play against a Zambian under 14 side later in the year. Last year our U16 and U21 sides played against Australia. We believe that only this kind of pressure and exposure can make these young players good enough to one day go one and become future world champions themselves. And the children love it! The experience of wearing the green and gold and being in that special team is something they all strive for from a young age.
Polocrosse is known as the king of the one horse sports. This makes it an affordable family game, as each family member only needs their one horse instead of a string of horses to compete. Because of this my children spend everyday with their special horse, riding, grooming and preparing it for the weekends practice or tournament. Usually at a tournament there will be a prize for the best horse and the best horse and rider combination in each division. This rewards the people who have made the time to work on their horse and their riding skills and encourages improved riding and horsemanship in the game.
Currently I am the captain of the SA ladies polocrosse team that will be traveling to Australia in April this year to play a 3 match series against the Australians in a small town called Warwick near Brisbane. There will also be a full SA mens team competing in the same series. The ladies team this year is one of the strongest we have
Polocrosse is played off handicap, with each player having a handicap ranging from absolute beginners playing off a -2 to the ultimate best players in the country who play off 10. This makes it easier for players of mixed ability to play together, so even though my husband is an 8 handicap, I am a 6 and the girls are 0’s, playing as a family can become a reality.
fielded for a long time. We have all 4 ladies who competed in the winning world cup team in 2015, myself, Celecia Jacobs, Natalie Maclarty and Caley Higgs. As well as past proteas; Leigh Higgs, Elri Van der Merwe and Dawnay Jacobs. Our reserve is a feisty 17 year old Maritzburg girls high pupil,
I play at a small club just outside of Pietermaritzburg called Bishopstowe Polocrosse Club. My husband’s father played atLaurence this club Werners and now pats our children do too. She’s a Giver Children are encouraged to play from as soon as they can sit on a horse. We have a peewee division where chaos and fun is the name of the game and children can learn some basic skills and rules. As soon as children can ride alone and are confident to play alone they move into the lower divisions. We have under 14, under 16 and under 19 age groups at our interprovincial tournaments for the children to compete in. Every year
Ladies polocrosse in South Africa is competitive with lots of very talented young girls coming though the junior ranks to challenge the older more experienced ladies. I have made many life long friends through this sport, who I play with on occasion, provincially and in the national team, but play against more often than not at club level. Ladies are handicapped on the same system as the men and we play at club level against and
Jacqui Minnaar. We have the privilege this year of being coached by Gavin Cocker who captained the SA team for many years including both world cup winning teams.
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POLOCROSSE with the men. The highest handicap at the moment for a lady is 6. But we have in the past had a lady go to 7, and I believe with the quality of ladies coming through now it won’t be long until we have another lady achieve this. Playing with and against the men has made the standard of ladies polocrosse very high and internationally competitive. At provincial and national level we play in ladies divisions. Due to the fact that generally the stick work or hand eye coordination of the ladies is not as good as the men, the ladies have risen to the top on very good horses that they have schooled themselves. The standard of lady riders has improved dramatically and the quality of horse flesh in South African polocrosse is remarkable. The most popular breed of horse has traditionally been the thoroughbred but we are slowly moving towards a
Debbie Dick, one our top KZN based lady riders on the thoroughbred mare Emcee. died last year but was owned by Charles Van Wyk, and Edenhope Bundy, who stands in Mooi River owned by Peter Choice and Tony Higgs. Polocrosse ladies need to be brave, strong and have good stick work, but with the help of a courageous little horse our work is made that much easier!
Jean Hackland, Celecia Jacobs and Natalie Maclarty 3 of the ladies from the winning 2015 World cup side who will be travelling to Australia in April as part of the SA ladies team. mix of the thoroughbred with the Australian Stockhorse (ASH). There are 2 lines of ASH playing polocrosse in South Africa at present; Billabong Ranger, who sadly
In this day and age there are not too many sports the whole family can do together. As a mother and a competitive sportsperson is could become very hard to find time for both my family and my horses, but polocrosse is more of a lifestyle to my family than just a sport and when I see my kids laughing with their dad as he throws the ball with them and getting excited to spend the weekend with us instead of at the mall with friends, I am eternally grateful.
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Photograph: Coutesy The Hong Kong Jockey Club
TURF DIARIES
The Longines Hong Kong International Races
Photograph Courtesy of Hong Kong Jockey Club
By Ashleigh Hughes (Love Racing) The Hong Kong International Raceday is the biggest on their calendar. Unoffically known as the “World Turf Championships”, the meeting attracts competitive entries from all over the world, and the total prize money for the meeting is HK$83 Million. It takes place at the rather splendid Sha Tin Racecourse, and is always on the second Sunday in December, each year. The build-up and media coverage, is extensive, and by the actual raceday, one is quite familiar with all the runners in the big races, even if you aren’t attending the meeting itself. The Hong Kong Jockey Club has strived to make the meeting the
“best in the world”.
Photograph Courtesy of Hong Kong Jockey Club
In 2014, some of the betting regulations were changed in Hong Kong, and it allowed the co-mingling of betting pools with England, Australia, America, South Africa and Canada, along with neighbours Macau and Singapore. This is also what prompted their more vigorous approach to marketing via social media, which has made everything so much more accessible to overseas punters and fans. The 2016 meeting saw a crowd of 100 710 people on course – a new attendance record! It was huge rise from the 74 000 in 2014, and the 88 500 in 2015. The betting turnover is no less astonishing, with HK$1.518 Billion bet on that single meeting. Even for non-racing enthusiast, the raceday is definitely a “bucket list” event to attend.
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TURF DIARIES Lisa Williams and Discovery Campbell
Santono Crown truimphs in front of 100 000 strong crowd at Sha Tin Photograph: Courtesy Hong Kong Jockey Club
Gr1 Longines Hong Kong Vase The first of the “Big Four” Hong Kong International Races, was the HK$16.5 Million Gr1 Longines Hong Kong Vase, over 2400m. The race was Highland Reel’s (IRE) for the taking. He’d run them ragged in the 2015 edition of the race, which had given Irish Champion trainer Aidan O’Brien his first victory in the Vase, under his regular jockey, global superstar Ryan Moore. He was also fresh off an impressively decisive victory in the 2016 Breeders’ Cup Turf, in the USA, having beaten US Turf Horse of the Year Flintshire, and the superstar mare Found (IRE). O’Brien was bullish after the race, and announced his intentions to travel to the Far East, in the next leg of his campaign. O’Brien said in a post-race press conference, “He has two options now, in the Japan Cup, and a race in Hong Kong... he’s an incredibly versatile horse that loves travelling.” They decided to take their chances in the latter option, and he was lined up against a fair field in the Hong Kong Vase.
Ryan Moore streaked to the front almost immediately from the jump, and set a blistering pace up front. And it was only just strides from the post, that Japanese raider, Satono Crown, under Joao Moreira, just edged ahead of Highland Reel, and took the honours. It was an agonising duel to watch, and Aidan O’Brien was not disappointed to finish second, “No complaints, he ran his heart out!” Take nothing away from the winner Satono Crown though – he came flying from off the pace, to deny the tote and crowd favourite, in the dying strides. Moreira was thrilled with the win, “I thought I had a big chance before the race, and it worked out. I tracked Silverwave early and got a clear run through. I had a lot of horse under me at the head of the stretch, and was always confident that I could get to the leader.”
Santono Crown truimphs in front of a 100 000 strong crowd at Sha Tin Photograph: Courtesy of the Hong Kong Jockey Club
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TURF DIARIES
Gr1 Longines Hong Kong Sprint in second, and Aerovelocity being settled into third spot, by a patient Zac Purton. Peniaphobia only weakened very late, and Aerovelocity took the lead just a furlong from home. Brett Prebble was finishing fast up the outside, on a flying Lucky Bubbles, who’d raced from quite far off the pace until the last 300m. Super Jockey and Strathmore were unplaced.
One of the most remarkable things about Hong Kong Racing is the adoration that the racing public give the star horses and top jockeys. Aerovelocity is one such horse - much loved for both his winning ways, and quirky behaviour. But at eight years old, he is in the twilight of his career, and with various behavioural and soundness issues plaguing him in the run up to the Hong Kong International Raceday, his connections were less than confident about his chances in the Gr1 Longines Hong Kong Sprint.
Zac Purton saluting the crowd after Aerovelocity’s win in the Hong Kong Sprint Photograph: Courtesy The Hong Kong Jockey Club
Aerovelocity fan club Photograph: Courtesy Hong Kong Jockey Club
Other contenders included the winner of the 2015 Hong Kong Sprint, Peniaphobia, new upcoming sprinting star Lucky Bubbles, and Super Jockey, who is trained by South African, Tony Millard. Super Jockey’s previous start was his dominant win in the $700 000 Korea Sprint, in Seoul, all the way back in September 2016. Millard rates Super Jockey as the best horse in his string currently, but the long break between races was telling, and after the very wide draw, he rated the stable companion Strathmore a stronger runner. Before the race, Millard said, “After the draw, I am a little bit more reserved. Strathmore is therefore my stronger one going in. With Super Jockey being a front runner and an on-pace horse, the draw is a big blow.”
Zac Purton gave all the credit to his veteran mount, “It’s a good feeling because we were of the opinion that we’re starting to lose him. And we know he’s a warrior and he gives everything he’s got and although he didn’t perform at his best today, his heart is so big that he’s able to give us that effort. Paul had fine-tuned him and dropped the extra little pounds that he was carrying and got him as best as he could for today so he’s done a great job. We had a lovely run in the race and he came out and he was just able to amble up. It was hard fought in the end, but he is all heart.”
The old warrior Aeroverlocity wins the Hong Kong Sprint
Karis Teetan, Super Jockey’s rider, said he had to work really hard to get up to the front at the start of the race, and used up a lot on energy early on. The pace was eventually set by Peniaphobia, under Sylvstre de Sousa, with Super Jockey wide
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TURF DIARIES
Zac Purton salutes as Beauty Only prevails iin the Hong Kong Mile Photograph: Couresty The Hong Kong Jockey Club
The Hong Kong Mile The HK$23 Million Gr1 Longines Hong Kong Mile, was the third Grade One race of the afternoon, and one eagerly anticipated by the crowd, as they would soon catch a glimpse of their beloved Able Friend. But his fairy tale comeback win was not to be, as Zac Purton bagged his second Gr1 win of the day aboard the Tony Cruz trained Beauty Only. The going on the day had been firm and quick, which suited the Italian bred Beauty Only perfectly and he was placed near the back of the field from the jump. At the 600m Purton started edging forward, and was carried out quite widely as they hit the straight. But they had the momentum, and Beauty Only powered home to take victory by a half length, over Helene Paragon. Joyful Trinity and Contentment, finished 3rd and 4th respectively, making it an all Hong Kong trained quartet in the Mile.
“I think we’re just starting to see the best of him. He’s always been so honest but now that he’s fully matured and acclimatized we’re really seeing what he can do.”
Purton and Cruz were understandably thrilled with the win, and both said that Beauty Only had a very bright future ahead of him. “He was really good,’ said Purton.
Tote favourite Able Friend ran a fair race to finish just two lengths back, in 6th place, in his second run back, after a nine month injury-enforced break.
“He is much improved this season and he was very strong today. Hughie (Bowman) pushed off the fence about the 700 which made me have to go a bit earlier than I wanted to but the horse has got a big set of lungs and kept running. We set sail after the leaders and he responded really well. I believe he can stretch out to 2,000 (metres) so there was no doubting him being strong at the end of the mile. “The firm ground suited - the harder the better for him and so did the good speed. We know he does his best now if we let him balance up early.”
Beauty Only gave Zac Purton his second GR1 victory on the the day Phtograph: Couresty The Hong Kong Jockey Club
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DRESSAGE NEWSLETTER
24
Photograph: Couresty The Hong Kong Jockey Club.
TURF DIARIES
Maurice shows them a clean pair of heels in The Hong Kong Cup, under Ryan Moore. Photograph: Couresty The Hong Kong Jockey Club.
The Hong Kong Cup The on-course excitement had built to a crescendo by the time the runners for the biggest race of the day, the HK$25 Million 2000m Gr1 Longines Hong Kong Cup, stepped out onto the track. The betting suggested it would be a battle between the Japanese raiders A Shin Hikari and Maurice, who were rated 129 and 124, and 4th and 7th respectively, on the Longines World’s Best Racehorse Rankings list.
A Shin Hikari being nearly 5 lengths in front of the second horse, just 800m into the race. The quarter mile split times were blisteringly fast, which played into Moore’s hands beautifully. At the 300m mark, with no false rail, it looked like Maurice and Moore had nowhere to go, but a gap opened in the wall of horses before them, and they burst through as if they had some afterburners behind the saddle. Maurice simply ate up the ground and powered home to a three length victory, going away. In second was the Hong Kong trained Secret Weapon, and another Japanese raider, Staphanos, completed the trifecta. A Shin Hikari faded out to the back of the field.
A Shin Hikari had won the 2015 running of the race, which had actually put him right at the very top of the World Rankings in January 2016. But often with such brilliance, madness is not far behind, and the imposing steel grey entire is notorious for his quirky antics. He certainly lived up to that reputation, as he managed to get loose in the parade ring, shortly before being saddled up for the race. It was a heart stopping few moments for everyone as he bolted around the ring for about 30 seconds!
Finishing just 4.5 lengths behind Maurice was a rather impressive South African bred gelding, trained by Tony Millard, called Horse Of Fortune. Bred by Northfields Stud, he was originally named Strongman in South Africa, where he won 3 races for Cape conditioner Glen Puller. By Stronghold, out of Sweet Virginia, who is by Casey Tibbs, Horse Of Fortune has now won 8 races from 25 career starts, including the Gr2 Sa Sa Ladies Purse in Hong Kong.
Maurice, on the other hand, had a reputation of being an absolute gentleman, in fact rather laid back. He’d won the Hong Kong Mile the year before, and was awarded Japanese Horse Of The Year, after a six race winning streak, all over 1600m, in 2015. In May 2016 he raided Hong Kong again, and was victorious in the Gr1 Champions Mile, so it was no surprise to see him tote favourite for the 2016 Hong Kong Cup. Yutake Take took a wound-up A Shin Hikari straight to the lead from the jump, while Maurice made an uncharacteristic faux pas, and completely missed the break. The unflappable Ryan Moore kept his cool, and placed him quietly on the rail, 3rd from last. Yutake Take took advantage of the firm, quick going, and set an incredibly fast pace in front, with
The winning connections celebrate Maurice’s win. Photograph: Courtesy The Hong Kong Jockey Club.
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TURF DIARIES
The Able Friend Phenomenon
Photograph: Courtesy The Hong Kong Jockey Club
The inimitable Able Friend, is without doubt, the most popular racing public favourite in Hong Kong, currently. The souvenir shops have shelves packed with merchandise with his name on it. There are key rings, hats, shirts, flags and plushy toys, all made to look like him – even with his trademark sheepskin cheek pieces! The grandstand crowd, often numbering up to 100 000 people, roar with excitement when they see him on the racecourse, and he is always followed by an army of enthusiastic reporters, even on the training tracks, in the early mornings. Every single racing fan is, quite literally, besotted with Able Friend. with ease, regaining his title as “king of hearts”, with his Hong Kong fans. In December 2015, he ran 3rd in the Hong Kong Sprint, behind Japanese sensation Maurice, unfortunately just three weeks later, disaster struck. Coming off the training tracks in January 2016, his trainer John Moore discovered some swelling on his off fore. He was found to have a very rare strain of the deep digital flexor tendon. He was very shortly afterwards, shipped off to Australia for some intensive rehabilitation and rest. The injury responded well, and he came back into full work in October last year. They managed to squeeze in a prep run in November, before lining up in the 2016 Gr1 Longines Hong Kong Mile in December. His popularity has never waned with the public, and he started as favourite, although possibly only due to the great sentiment of his adoring fans. He was gallant in defeat, and finished a close up sixth place. Moreira was pragmatic in defeat, “He feels like he needed another run – his lack of finish told”. Perhaps he fell afoul of the much vaunted “second run after a lay off” curse?
He was born in Australia in 2009, and ran his first two races there, before being exported to race in Hong Kong, in January 2013. Six months later he burst onto the Hong Kong racing circuit, with a succinct victory in a 1200m race. He’d already started to win the hearts of the racing public at that stage. In January 2014, he lined up in the Gr1 Hong Kong Classic Mile against a very competitive field, and duly obliged by winning the race by half a length from another top Hong Kong campaigner, Designs On Rome (IRE). Joao “Magic” Moreira was really impressed with the run and felt that he “could possibly be the best horse I have ever ridden”, and with what was to follow, he was certainly not wrong. In April 2014, Able Friend was entered to run in the Gr2 Chairman’s Trophy, back over 1600m again, but this time the Mauritian born Karis Teetan, deputised for the suspended Moreira, which he won in fine style. Teetan has said it is one of his all-time favourite wins as a jockey, mostly because of the jubilant celebrations of the crowd on the course that day. The racing public’s adoration intensified just a few months later, when on 23 November 2014, Able Friend started a sensational six race winning streak. The wins included his very first Gr1 Hong Kong Mile in December 2014, and no less than 4 international Grade One races. He seemed unstoppable, and trainer John Moore, and his owner Mr Daniel Yeung decided to take their chances and race the Champion Miler at Royal Ascot, in June 2015, in the Queen Anne Stakes. But the normally calm and relaxed Able Friend was a much sweat in the parade ring, and never travelled well in the race. He finished down field, in sixth place. But to his fans’ delight, he won his next Hong Kong start
Born in Australia, Able Friend is by the Giant’s Causeway stallion, Shamardal (USA), and out of Ponte Piccolo (NZ), who is by Volksraad (NZ). This liver chestnut gelding has had 25 career starts, for 13 wins, and has amassed over HK$ 59 Million in stakes. He is also the highest ever rated Hong Kong horse, on the Longines International Ratings – at his best he was rated at 127. He was crowned Hong Kong Horse Of The Year in 2015, and in spite of his recent dip in form, steadfastly remains the Hong Kong public’s favourite horse.
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TURF DIARIES
Millard’s Hong Kong Magic The Millard name is synonymous with horseracing in South Africa, so it is no surprise that Millard is a household name in Hong Kong too. Tony Millard has been in Hong Kong for over 17 years now, and in April 2016, he saddled his 500th Hong Kong trained winner. That is an incredible achievement considering his string has never been bigger than 60 horses! On 11 September 2016, Tony Millard made international headlines, when his stable star Super Jockey, won the KOR Gr1 $700 000 Korea Sprint at Seoul Racecourse. It was the very first time a Hong Kong based horse had raced in South Korea, and the racing media went into a frenzy when they won the inaugural running of this race. Millard’s reputation for meticulous attention to detail was evident in his post-race comments, “Going into this sprint, a lot of things went right and we had a good feeling about it," Millard said. "The team worked really well, because we had to prepare the horse in the off-season, which is not easy, especially as he is a horse that doesn't sweat. That's quite a big call in Hong Kong's summer humidity. The race panned out exactly the way we planned, which doesn't often happen. He runs very well fresh. We know that and I was very happy with his preparation coming into this. It was great. I didn't actually expect him to win that well, but he's a high-class horse.”
Tony Millard with Ryan Moore Photograph: Courtesy Liesl King His two biggest victories were the Gr1 Audemars Piguet QE II Cup in 2011, and the Gr1 Longines Hong Kong Mile in 2012. In April 2015 after a retirement ceremony was held between races at Sha Tin Racecourse, for Ambitious Dragon, he was repatriated to New Zealand to enjoy some down time at Lime Country Stud & PreTraining Centre. A most fitting retirement for the sixth leading stakes-earner ever, in Hong Kong history!
Super Jockey’s win in the Korea Sprint was certainly impressive and, under Mauritian born, South Africantrained jockey Karis Teetan, he won by 4 lengths, going away, on a surface not dissimilar to the now defunct Vaal Sand track. The bay New Zealand bred gelding’s next start was in the HK$18.5 Million Longines Hong Kong Sprint, on the big Hong Kong International Raceday, in December 2016. But after getting a very poor draw, Millard was a lot less confident. “After the draw, I am a little bit more reserved. Strathmore is therefore my stronger one going in. With Super Jockey being a front runner and an on-pace horse, the draw is a big blow.” Jockey Teetan had to fight hard from the jump to achieve Super Jockey’s favoured running position up near the front, and with the huge effort at the start, faded in the straight, to finish just 3.5 lengths behind the old warrior Aerovelocity.
Millard currently rates Super Jockey as the best in his yard, with his other useful sprinter Strathmore, a “close second”. Training racehorses in the city at Sha Tin is the complete antithesis of the grassy open spaces at the Vaal Racecourse, where he was based previously, in South Africa. The Sha Tin stable blocks are multilevel, often up to three stories high, and the horses access the upper levels via ramps. Due to the poor air quality, high temperatures and extreme humidity, all the stable blocks are fully air-conditioned. “Respiratory problems are our biggest challenge. The air-conditioning in the stable buildings runs the whole day, which is not really good for breathing issues.” Keeping horses stimulated and happy is another challenge for the Hong Kong trainers, and Millard falls back on the old South African tradition of plenty of outdoor time. “We try to keep them outside as long as possible. We walk them after trackwork and again in the afternoon. I try to keep them out and with the sun on their backs as long as possible.”
By far the best horse Millard has ever trained in Hong Kong is Ambitious Dragon (and he is quick to add that that honour goes to Empress Club from his days in South Africa!). Ambitious Dragon was another beloved favourite of the Hong Kong racing public. The New Zealand bred gelding won 13 races from 30 starts in Hong Kong, with a stakes total of over HK$58 Million.
But the Millard Team is not complete without the immense input of Tony’s wife, Beverly. An accomplished rider and horsewoman in her own right, Beverly plays a very big role in the day to day running of the yard. “Well she always has a lot to say!” he quips! “Beverly does the books and rides morning trackwork as well. She is very hands on and very involved in the yard.”
Photograph: Courtesy Liesl King
When asked if he had any plans to ever return to South Africa, perhaps even to train again, he replied, “Not at this stage. I have been here for nearly 18 years. I am the second longest expat trainer here behind John Moore. There have been a lot between me and Moore that have come and gone.” So for the next couple of years at least, we will have to be content with watching his successes on our local racing channel.
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TURF DIARIES
Karis Teetan – On The Up! The first things you notice about Karis Teetan are his old school courtesy and professionalism. There is no doubt that his humble beginnings in the industry are the reason for that. Born in Mauritius, it came as no surprise that he grew up obsessed with horses and racing, from a young age. Horseracing in Mauritius is about close as you will get to a “national sport”, and the Champ De Mars Racecourse is packed to the rafters on racedays. Mauritians literally eat, sleep and breathe horseracing!
Life for jockeys in Hong Kong is very different to most other racing jurisdictions around the world, and we asked him to tell us a little bit about his day to day life there. You are “living the dream” in HK at the moment, but it involves a lot of hard work and dedication – what are the biggest challenges of living and working in HK? “It was always a dream to come here, so I am very pleased to be here. It is very competitive here. It is a place where it is a step higher than back home. It takes a lot of hard work. Here as a jockey you have to book your own rides. So to get the right rides, you need to know how to study form. You need to be a people person as you need to get to know the owners as well as the trainers. I am still learning.” Where do you live in HK? “I live on the racecourse. The HKJC provides accommodation for us. I have a beautiful 3 bedroom apartment.” You have recently ridden winners in Japan and Singapore, how different is it riding in Japan to the rest of the world? What stood out for you in Japan, as the most memorable?
Teetan aboard Blocker Dee (nearest the Camera) dead heats with Joao Moreira aboard Sea Jade at Happy Valley on 15 February 2017. Photograph: Couretsy The Hong Kong Jockey Club
“I have always wanted to pick up rides outside of Hong Kong. Japan was my first choice - what a place to ride! Everybody there works with horses because it is their passion. The racing is very different from here in HK and back home in SA. It took me a few meetings to get used to it! Full pace all the way. They also race two-year-old fillies against the colts over 2000m!
His father was an impoverished sugar cane labourer, so Karis’s opportunities to ride were mostly on the horses his father’s friends owned, and later on at the Mauritius Pony Club as a show jumper. But his destiny changed in 2004, when the Headmaster of the world famous South African Jockey Academy, in Summerveld, near Durban, came to assess potential candidates for the Academy. Teetan was just one of two candidates selected to make the journey across the Indian Ocean to South Africa. He was completely overwhelmed in the beginning. He had very little money, and could not speak any English at all. Teetan has always said that the professional team and setup at the Academy are the main foundation of his current success. The Academy staff realised, from the start that he needed some extra help, and he was guided and mentored by some of the best riding masters in the world, which lead to him becoming the South African Champion Apprentice in 2008.
“They are also very strict before a race. The Friday night before a race at 8pm all communication is severed. You have to be at the academy which is known as ‘jockey jail’, with no contact with the outside world. It is well equipped though, there is a sauna, jacuzzi and you get your own room, food etc. “My first win there was the most memorable.” You are currently riding a lot of horses for Tony Millard – how do you get your rides in HK? How does the system work there? “You have to book your own rides here. So you ride track work, barrier trials, study form and then you ask trainers for rides. You try to get what you want. Some owners will put you on their horse if you have a good connection with them. If they like what you do them they will put you on all their horses.”
Four years later he was still riding the crest of the wave, and he enjoyed tremendous success with the Cape based Brett Crawford stable. He rode his first Gr1 winner that season, aboard Dynasty’s strapping son, Jackson, in the 2012 Cape Derby. It was this success which led to him being invited to ride in Hong Kong, and the HKJC gave him a licence to ride for a few months from August 2013. He won the very first Hong Kong race that he ever rode in, and it was also the very first race of the new season – an extremely auspicious start for a new jockey in Hong Kong, and the racing public warmed up to him immediately. That first winner was a horse called Amazing Always, who was trained by South African David Ferraris. Teetan notched up an impressive 50 wins in his first season, which included a HKGR2 win aboard the very popular Able Friend and he finished a remarkable 3rd in the 2015/16 Hong Kong Jockey’s Premiership, behind Joao Moreira and Zac Purton, with 47 wins in total.
Where do you see yourself in a year’s time? “Right here! I have loved it since day one. So I can’t see myself anywhere else. I will try to go to Japan again. The Japanese trainers and owners now know me better. So I can now be more competitive.”
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BEYOND RACING
Promoting retired Racehorses
By Catherine Hartley
Photography Courtesy Candiese Marnewick
Now 22, this bay gelding had 14 wins, for R1, 711,483 in stakes over 1000 – 1300 metres. “It all started with a phone call from a friend stating “I’ve found your horse”. Further details and information followed and without even knowing what he looked like, I knew he would be mine.
having won the Computaform Sprint twice and nearly R2million in prize money. His antics in the paddock belie the fact that he is 22- As one of the naughtiest horses in the yard, he could be easily mistaken for a cheeky five year old! His looks are as striking as ever with a coat covered in dapples, he loves attention and will gladly give kisses and special nickers especially in exchange for cuddles and carrots – what more can a girl ask for?
Being a top sprinter, he had high spirits combined with a big heart which meant that most things in life were a competition for him – a simple hack was a race that had to be won, as was a lap of honour in the show jumping arena. Cantering him through the country, it was clear to see why he had been such a talented racehorse – he would effortlessly lower his entire body and simply change gear. When excited he could also effortlessly execute his signature “handstand” buck which led to many unofficial dismounts on my part, eliciting comments from onlookers ranging from “if a horse can buck it can jump” to “do you actually know how to ride”. Needless to say, life was never dull and I soon learnt to keep myself in the saddle. I had the privilege of being able to ride and compete this incredible horse for 10 years, but after one particular show at age 17, I knew he was telling me he’d had enough. Thankfully he is still a big part of my life, and is now retired at a family member’s beautiful stable yard in Summerveld where he has always lived while in KZN. Every visitor to the yard, including any new vet, has to be informed that he was a champion racehorse
Photography Courtesy Candiese Marnewick
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BEYOND RACING I am so grateful to Andre McDonald and his granddaughter, Joey Thomas, for entrusting this very special horse to me. This is Fov’s Favourite – not only a champion on the race course, but champion of my heart. (Liz Valentine)
Wayne Hartley and Soul of Grit Photography Johnathan Doig
Fov's favourite (Foveros x Queen’s Favourite) was trained by the late Buddy Maroun and raced for 14 wins, 24 places and stakes of R1,711,483. Rated 122, he was named the Western Cape Sprinter of the year and older horse/gelding of the year in 2000. The same dam-line produced Shea Shea, who had a stellar globe-trotting career, which included winning the Grade 1 Al Quoz Sprint before coming home from Dubai to retire at Jessica Slack’s Mauritzfontein Stud.
There are so many successes out there that we look forward to featuring in future articles, with the objective being to highlight their post- racing success. We aim to emphasise that although some horses do not race well for various reasons, if they retire sound and are re-homed and schooled correctly for their new roles, they have latent value and huge potential in their future careers.
Happily retired “Mr Fovvy” clearly still dominates the stable yard. Photography Courtesy Candiese Marnewick
Most notable recently, is an eight year old Al Mufti gelding, who raced for 3 places over 1 season in PE, retired 4 years ago to polo and is now on his way to the UK, having been recently sold to one of the top high-goal teams for around $70 000! It should make us all think twice before dismissing a horse as useless with no further worth – they may still have the last laugh! Beyond Racing is an initiative founded by Imagine Racing to promote and publicise Thoroughbreds, highlight their successes as highly suitable sport and leisure horses and to promote their appropriate transition from racing to be well looked after, much loved and valued beyond their racing careers. The ongoing campaign aims to combine all forces in the breeding and racing industry, sport horse industry, the National Thoroughbred Trust and animal welfare units to promote their care and highlight their suitability and successes as riding horses across all disciplines.
While it’s easy for us to share the stories of the Champions because most of us remember them racing, and we love to know where they are now, equally as important are the horses who have excelled after the track, despite never having raced successfully. Two such horses worth a mention are both by the son of Royal Academy, Lavery. Soul of Grit and Wayne (Lavery x Girl of Grit) and Robyn’s Luck (Lavery x Sweet Robyn). Soul of Grit hated the racing environment and was retired to pursue polo at 4. He took a lot of patience and time to school as he is clever and quirky but became a top-level polo pony and now, aged 13, is still in his prime. Insert Soul of Grit and Wayne Robyn’s Luck was bred by Middlefield Stud and managed a win and seven places for trainer Paul Matchett and retired as a late three-year old. She’s now 12 and also playing top level provincial polo. Both horses were lent to the Chilean International team in 2015, playing against SA’s 23 goal national team in the BMW Polo series.
Keep sending us your Beyond Racing success stories to catherine@imagineracing.co.za Imagine the possibilities – Proudly Thoroughbred
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STABLE VIEWS
What would your horse score?
By Hannah Botha - MSC Equine Science (Royal Agricultural College UK) So, you have started your new years resolution, but what about your horse? Do you plan to alter his diet for better performance, plan to help him gain or lose weight, or simply ensure he is in good health?
From 6-9 Horses may show “Cellulite Areas
The first step in choosing a feed for your horse or assessing his overall health is to look at his body condition. This can be quite subjective as different people have different ideas on how fat or thin a horse is.
6. Moderately Fleshy
It is for this reason that several body condition score charts have been devised to provide guidance for this type of assessment. Although there are several charts, we at Equus Feeds prefer the American 9 score chart, as this provides a bigger range of variances and provides more detail.
8. Fat
6. Cellulite Areas
7. Fleshy
9. Extremely Fat
One step further
An important factor to note before assessing your horse’s condition is to remember that a horse’s breed, as well as his workload, will influence how he should look. For example, a fit racehorse may need to carry less condition than a TB used for show jumping. Warmbloods may naturally carry more condition than Arabs and this needs to be borne in mind. Despite this, however, there is no need for any horse to be excessively thin or obese.
Researchers have now established a similar scoring system for the neck region, as horses with a socalled “cresty neck” appear to be more prone to metabolic dysfunctions such as insulin resistance, laminitis and Cushings. The cresty neck scores (CNS) range from 0 to 5. A score of 3 or higher would be considered a “cresty neck”. Therefore ideally, horses should have a neck score of 2.
So, what are you looking at? Condition scoring looks at the amount of fat coverage a horse has over the shoulder and elbow region, the ribs, the withers, the loin and tail head, and the crest of the neck.
Neck
Ribs
Withers
Scores 1-9
Loin
Behind Tailhead Shoulder Score of 2
Below are pictures showing an indication of the different scores. The average horse should be around a 5. Extremely fit horses may score 4 and some competition horses may be even reach a 6. However, no horse should fall below a 3 and the same applies for the opposite end of the scale. Even retired horses should not gain heavier scores.
Score of 3
Score of 4-5
1. Poor
3. Thin
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/30/Neglected_horse_ (5884905373).jpg/ https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c5/BCS_2_a_ (5843250974).jpg/220px-BCS_2_a_(5843250974).jpg220px-Neglected_horse_(5884905373). jpghttp://blog.smartpakequine.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/DaVinci.pnghttp://www. blythestables.co.uk/blythestables-co-uk/_img/owning-page/OwnYRH2.JPGhttp://www. thehorse.com/articles/24740/determining-horses-body-weight-and-ideal-conditionhttp:// www.slideshare.net/susantuller/understanding-equine-metabolic-syndrome-by-smartpakequine
2. Very Thin
4. Moderately Thin
5. Moderate
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A GROOMS INSIGHT
Happy..... Jack of all trades by Sikhangele Mbambo When Happy Ndlovu first entered South Africa as an illegal immigrant in 2002, who would have guessed that he would become an accomplished work rider, passionate and extremely knowledgeable about showjumping, oh, and chickens . We arrived at 8 in the morning to talk to an exhausted Happy, who had been up since dawn preparing and loading horses that were going to Shongweni for the big show, but he graciously chatted to us and even told us about his second passion, also a source of pride and joy, his egg laying Lavender Orpinton chickens.
Describe a typical day in your life I start off my day with a lesson from Rogan Asken at 8am on Pohlands Whyle, one of Jackie's horses. I go for tea break at 10, when I get back, I prepare Greg's horses Sparkling and Vuitton. I maintain jumps for him and make sure that all is well till he is done riding, which normally takes me to my lunchtime, 12 - 2pm. During my lunch, sometimes I fetch Jackie's son Cade from school, in Beaulieu and run errands as needed.
Tell me a bit about yourself Happy Ndlovu, 33, I am from the village of Tsholotsho in Zimbabwe. My wife and 2 children, 13 and 10, are back home. she looks after the kids who both go to school in the village. How did you become a working groom? Just after I finished my O'levels I decided to come to South Africa to look for work. My father, was already in the country then, working for Phillip Tucker so I followed suit and got a job as a groom, with my father's help of course. Jacky, then had her horses in Rogan's yard. When Jacky opened her own stables in 2004, I went with her and I have not regretted it once. She needed a riding partner, so she taught me to ride on her horse, White Magic. At the time she had 5 jumping horses and 2 retired ones that I looked after. I started off riding a horse called White Magic. The first time we went on an out ride the horse bolted with me and I followed advise that Megan Jackson had repeatedly given to me, which was that when the horse bolts with you, you should try to turn it instead of pulling to get it to stop.
After my lunch, the horses get theirs, basically Epol pellets, Capstone lifetime balancer, and Cooltime. This is also the time when horses get their supplements, i.e Fulvic, Diamond V, Omega oil. I then get Ronette's horses, Edward and Lawrence, ready for her. Afterwards, I check on my chickens, layers, Lavender Orpingtons. I am the only one in this area with this breed, as far as I know. I got them from a guy who came to build our teff shed and bred them from a rooster and 2 hens, now I have 25 hens and one rooster, on average, i get about 16 eggs a day from them. 4:30pm is dinnertime for the horses, I supervise their eating while dong individual checks to see that they are all well. I knock off at 5pm but I do a final round at night to check that all is still well.
I then began having lessons with James White, he taught me all the basics of riding and I grew to love the sport. My next horse was Pohlands Whyle and together we started showjumping. Our first show together was at Witkoppen, jumping 90cm. We came 1st and won a voucher for jods at Midfeeds.
What was your worst experience as a groom I had to tow Megan Jackson's horse to be put down, very tough thing to do. One of our horses, Toyitoyi, got biliary and died in the yard. Have you ever fallen off a horse while riding?
I have learnt quite a lot since being here. Jackie taught me to drive, I can tow and I also know how to trim horses. I do shows once a month and I really enjoy and look forward to it.
I have fallen off but I have never been hurt. I rarely come off so when I fall everyone celebrates.
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A GROOMS INSIGHT
How would you improve the life of a groom?
that one should be able to establish discipline and respect from the horse.
I have been very lucky to work with and for my employers. They are awesome, considerate and they push me and encourage me to do more all the time. I even have insurance with Equipage which I know a lot of other grooms do not have, I feel that this is something that employers need to take into serious consideration. Horses are unpredictable animals and as much as one can try to be careful, accidents are bound to happen.
As a show-jumper, what advice would you give to others before they go into competition? Warm up more. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? I would like to do my NQF, I have already started researching the requirements, with lots of help from Chris Topping, Jackie's husband and I am looking forward to starting.
I also feel that if grooms are given the proper training, there would be less grievous accidents and less blame to throw around. Riding has helped me to understand a great deal about horses, how to better communicate with them as well as handle myself around them.
If you had the financial capacity, would you own a horse?: Definitely, since I started riding, I have grown to love horses quite a lot and I can see myself owning one.
Feedback is also very important for both groom and employer, let your grooms know that they are doing well and correct them if they are wrong. Respect is earned both ways, grooms provide a much needed service as much as they also need the employment. I have seen grooms treated really badly by their employers at shows and how they do their jobs without any feelings in return. What do you think are the characteristics of a good groom?: One must be level headed around horses, a little common sense, be careful of your tone of voice, good body language. Always remember that horses understand verbal communication and
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ENDURANCE
Back to School
6 simple exercises for the Endurance horse By Leandri Joubert & Janice Barrett
I shall never forget standing at the start line of my first Tri-Nations event watching a rider on the South African team warming up her horse. She was trotting beautiful circles with her horse moving in a perfect frame, engaged, rhythmic and alert. I remember telling myself “THIS is how it should be done”
horses, and together we have worked out some ‘go-to’ exercises that are incredibly simple, but so beneficial to both the endurance horse and rider.
and it seems to hold true for most of the successful horse-and-rider combinations in endurance. Like with all other equestrian disciplines, good groundwork makes the difference at the end of the day. In Endurance it makes even more sense considering you have to canter for 120 kilometres on variable terrain – if your horse is not supple and balanced, the chances are pretty good that something will act up along the way. This is equally, if not more, true for the rider. An unfit rider with a poor position in the saddle will make it even harder for the horse as the day goes on.
Exercise: Large and loose Purpose: The start to an endurance race is exciting, the first 10 kilometres a mad blur of skills, luck and selectively functioning brakes. The horse will want to run, will want to chase the pack and will want to do so at speed. In this case, your hands, the bit and all that goes with them can become a very uncomfortable reality for the young horse. Add to that the typical young horses’ compromised position of running with their heads in the air and you are very likely setting your horse up for some unpleasant habits and experiences on the track.
Now let me state up front, I am not one of the superstar endurance riders, nor do I crave my next 7-hour day in the saddle. My enjoyment is working with young horses and watching them grow from scrawny little Arabs to strong, muscular and competent athletes. My incredible instructor, okay she is more of a friend, manages to look beyond the running tights and ‘tekkies’ riding gear, the synthetic tack and the pint-sized
Our first exercise is therefore to generate some trust between the horse and rider, more specifically the rider’s hands and the bit. In this exercise we ride large, pressure-free circles on a loose rein where all changes in pace and direction become a non-event. This may seem tedious and simple, but is critical in developing a solid foundation going forward.
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ENDURANCE What do I do? but the aim is that the horse learns that he is free to move forward and relax. Over time the physical head carriage will change, but the immediate benefit is the understanding that your hands and the bit are guides and not the enemy.
• To start you may want to begin this exercise in an enclosed smaller area and then work your way up to a larger arena. • Get the horse to walk on a loose rein on a large circle or large circuit. He should walk energetically, and maintain the true rhythm of the walk, i.e. onetwo-three-four-one-two-three-four.
Exercise: Circles and serpentines Purpose: We continue with the theme of a solid foundation and a pleasant association with your hands and the bit, but now we add some work in the steering department. During an endurance ride you are constantly picking the best line for your horse to travel, dodging rocks, holes and even other horses. It can be of race-saving importance to quickly and effectively change direction with just the shift of your seat. This exercise starts to build the steering platform with the aim to exclude the reins but include everything else! Again, such a simple exercise, but so effective for practising the communication between you and your horse.
• Try to keep the reins loose but equal on either side of his neck. Follow his shoulder/neck movement with supple arms, specially elbows and wrists. • Include simple changes of rein in walk. To ride a smooth change of rein on a loose rein, be sure to keep looking ahead, through your horse’s ears. Have your new inside leg on his girth, your new outside leg a little behind the girth. It helps to slightly turn your new inside shoulder slightly back. Try to keep your horse’s rhythm as you do this. • Work up to being able to do this in trot, also with a loose rein. Remember to do a soft bounce to change your diagonal when you change rein. What to look for? • You want your horse not to rush off and to begin to accept the loose rein as a pleasant mutual agreement. • Make sure the walk and the trot are energetic, yet calm.
What do I do? • Add 20-metre circles to the large and loose trotting exercise if you feel the horse is losing rhythm. Then continue on your larger circuit. • Walk three-loop serpentine to get the shape and size of the loops as consistent as possible. • Try the serpentine exercise in the same trot that you should have developed in the previous exercise, i.e. energetic, rhythmic and relaxed. Remember to change your own diagonal as you straighten out before starting the next loop. Be sure to ‘bounce’ as softly as possible on your horse’s back to avoid him losing his rhythm.
• In walk, remember to feel the rhythm of onetwo-three-four-one-two-three-four. It should not change, and especially not change to a jog. • In trot, remember to feel the rhythm of one-twoone-two. It should not change. • Over time you want your horse to relax his poll and start to stretch / lower his nose. There may be many more sessions with the head in the air –
• In the serpentine, simply change a loop into a circle for one or two circuits if your horse is rushing.
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ENDURANCE What to look for: • Then, to ask him to come back to walk, keep your legs on his barrel, and start to ‘shrink’ your rising trot until the horse starts to slow down and change pace to walk. By holding him with your legs, you are helping to keep him straight, and you are controlling the pace with your body, rather than with your reins.
• The horse should manage to keep his rhythm throughout the circle or the serpentine. You must be carefully to keep your own balance or he will undoubtedly lose his rhythm. • He should follow the line of the serpentine by showing willingness to bend on each loop, then travel a short distance straight and then begin the new bend on the next loop
• When the horse is walking, try to feel the one-two-three-four rhythm of the walk for a few strides. Then ask again for the upward transition.
• At this stage the horse will probably be looking around a lot, but that is to be expected and to a certain extent he should be allowed to do so.
• Remember to try to reduce the amount of leg needed for the upward transition. This may take weeks or even months. Likewise, if the horse is too excited, teach him to accept that your legs never leave his side, but he responds from ‘breathe and go’ without exploding.
• In the long term, the serpentines will help him to begin to focus on the work and the rider, rather than what is happening outside of the arena. • Serpentines give the horse an opportunity to experience the arena from many different views, so they are also a way to familiarise him to a new place.
What to look for: • The horse should remain straight in the transitions. Remember that straight means that his hindquarters are behind his shoulders. So even on a circle, he can be straight. The main thing is that he does not swing the quarters out. This prevents him from remaining engaged. When time is critical, this slows down reaction time.
• The rider should be able to achieve the serpentine with his/her seat and legs, maintaining a quiet position in the saddle as she changes direction, and be as independent of the reins as possible as a steering mechanism. Exercise: Trot-walk-trot transitions
• Remember to look for clear, correct rhythm in both walk and trot.
Purpose: By now we can hopefully walk and trot on a loose rein with some changes in direction thrown in. My endurance comrades will know that this is quite some progress with a young energetic Arabian horse. For our next exercise we want to start working on the quality of the movement, get the correct muscles to engage so that on race day we have 4-wheel drive activated. Furthermore, this exercise helps practise both a downward and an upward transition so neither is a drama when asked for. In addition, it teaches the young horse to change his pace and at the same time keep his quarters in line with his shoulders, not something that horses do if left to their own devices, as most prefer to swing the quarters sideways in either or both up and downwards transitions. This exercise also encourages the horse to engage his hindquarters, in other words, to step under with his hind legs. In the long term, it is a great strengthening exercise for the hindquarters.
• In the long term, his head carriage should not change in the transitions. The exercise: Trotting poles Purpose: I am almost sure no explanation is needed here. Most riders on merely an out-ride have been victim to a sleepy horse not picking
What do I do? • Start either on a straight line or a 20-metre circle in walk. Ask your horse to move into trot, using both legs equally on the girth. If he is lazy give him a sharp kick with your lower legs. If he is too sharp, just think, breathe in and start trotting. • In the long term, you want a willing calm transition without having to kick him at all, just to breathe in and go. Even a naturally lazy horse can be taught this.
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ENDURANCE • Then ask him to trot quietly over the poles. It is best to approach off a gentle curve, then straighten out the last ten metres, over the poles, continue straight another ten metres and then return to your track.
up its feet, a situation that is even more likely (and terrifying) when cantering across country. Having your horse alert to its own feet and used to adjusting the length of its stride will prove invaluable in a sticky situation where you have no choice but to over that rock. Trotting poles can be used in various configurations to keep your horse attentive and figuring out how its own body works whilst carrying you around! Google is your friend here, but here are some steps to get you started.
What to look for: • The horse should approach the poles willingly and confidently. He should keep his rhythm and move into the poles straight and out the other side also straight.
What do I do? • You will need poles suitable for trotting over. They can be any safe poles; preferably ones that are heavy enough to not roll easily and wide enough to allow the horse to move straight over; they do not need not be smartly painted showjumping poles. Three poles are good, four or five poles are even better.
• If he rushes, circle first in trot and then walk the poles again. Repeat until he stops rushing.
• You will need to set them the correct distance for your horse’s trot stride. This is usually about 90 cm to one metre, but can vary, depending on the fitness, size and excitability of your horse. For example, if he is very hot, rather start with three poles and slowly increase the number of poles.
The exercise: Turn-on-the-forehand
• Most horses don’t do it perfectly the first time. So, don’t panic, just keep calm and try again. • It is advisable/helpful to have a friend nearby who can adjust the poles if necessary.
Purpose: This exercise has got a less direct link to endurance (unless you include the twisting and turning in the grooming area). However, once again this serves as a muscle activation exercise and is an opportunity to identify some weaker spots in how you communicate with your horse. It adds some lovely variety to the schooling work and can help to slow down an excited horse and get them to refocus.
• Place the set of poles more-or-less in the centre of your working space, to allow an approach from either side. • Allow him to just walk over the poles a few times, so he is familiar with them. If the poles are set for trotting, he will need to put in an extra stride or two in the walk, to cope with the distance. This is a good way to remind him to think about his feet and adjust his stride as necessary.
The turn-on-the forward requires the horse to move his hindquarters around his front end. When it is perfected, the horse will cross his hind legs over, while ‘marking time’ with his front legs. He will move in a semi-circle and end up facing in the opposite direction.
What do I do? • Choose a place in your arena or schooling area with a wall or firm barrier. • Halt your horse close to and parallel to the wall. Ideally the halt should be square, but that might come a bit later with more schooling. • Have your reins short enough so your horse cannot move forward. Drop your weight onto your outside (the side against the wall) seat-bone and move your outside leg back about five centimetres.
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Equine Hydrotherapy Spa For the Treatment of: • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Tendon Injuries Soft-tissue Damage Ligament Damage Fractures Strains Sore Shins Splints Joint Inflammation Laminitis Flesh Wounds Abscesses Arthritis Hoof Related Problems Injury Prevention pre and post Competion
Contact: Tammy Cell: 060 355 5929 • Email: tammyventer256@gmail.com Kameeldrift East Pretoria, On Moloto Highway M573, 2 km from Zambezi (Sefako Makgatho) Drive
Why cold Hydrotherapy Works By Tammy Venter There’s something almost spiritual about the healing properties of water. Water cleanses, soothes and draws away inflammation and infection, and it does so in the most natural way. To understand how and why cold hydrotherapy works we need to understand a little bit about the inflammatory process. Here’s how the “panic button” works: • When cells are injured they release enzymes and proteins. • These then summon infection-fighting white blood cells, or lymphocytes, from other areas in the body and cause blood vessel walls in the vicinity of the injury to dilate and become more porous. • The lymphocytes rally to the cause, passing through the porous membranes and entering the injured tissues to begin the infection-fighting process.
• The result is secondary tissue damage called hypoxic injury, which can compound the problem.
• Extra fluids, carrying oxygen and proteins for tissue repair also pool nearby.
• In addition, blood vessels in the area are put under increasing pressure by the fluid build-up, so the flow of blood and lymph tends to stall.
• The tissue damage also triggers the secretion of prostaglandins, hormones which are responsible for much of the pain the horse feels. There are 3 main symptoms of inflammation namely – pain, heat and swelling. Pain - alerts the horse to the problem and warns him not to use the affected area. Heat – is an indication of the increased blood flow to the injury site. Swelling – or edema helps immobilize the area. When inflammation rages out of control, it actually can hinder the healing: • Excess edema can create a “swamplike” environment which makes it difficult for healthy cells in the vicinity of the injury to get enough oxygen from the blood – in essence the cells drown.
The pony couldnt walk due to a big sore under the fetlock
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So your first goal is to reduce the swelling and the discomfort.
The ECB Spa runs at a temperature between 2’C and 4’C.
Cold salt hydrotherapy can be used to treat all forms of lower leg inflammation…. Removing the painful fluid and swelling associated with injury.
The application of cold triggers 3 basic reactions: 1. At cellular level, the metabolic response of the cells is reduced, so the cells need less oxygen to function and thereby suffer less hypoxic injury. 2. The permeability of the blood vessel walls is decreased, thus reducing the amount of fluid that accumulates in the injured area. 3. The cold numbs the area to a certain degree, acting as a topical analgesic. The ECB salt solution is a mixture of sea salt and Epsom salts and acts as a hypertonic poultice, reducing heat while having a natural healing effect on wounds. Water density increases with salt concentration which in turn increases pressure to aid fluid and waste dispersal. The machine has a blower with jets, similar to a Jacuzzi, which has a massaging effect on the legs.
Open wound with maggots inside
As water temperature decreases its ability to carry oxygen increases. This increased oxygenation is believed to enhance the natural defense systems.
Tendonitis is one of the main injuries associated with performance horses as often repair is not fully successful. For example, initial injury may start as a bruise or strain to the collagen fibres which then become inflamed and further deteriorate under the influence of collagenase. In repair new collagen fibres form but often form cross links due to lingering swelling which are weak and re-injure. Cold hydrotherapy treatment minimizes the effect of collagenase by keeping the leg temperature lower, and by reducing the swelling, allows collagen fibres to repair neatly.
The greater the depth of the water the greater the physical pressure exerted on the tissues which, again, aids in the dispersal of accumulated fluids. Water depth is adjustable dependent upon the position and severity of the injury. Proper chemical and salt maintenance allows for thousands of successive treatments without water replacement. Temperature and chemical levels combine to eliminate the transfer of microbiological infection. So to conclude spa treatments resolve injuries faster in two ways: 1. By keeping the leg temperature lower it minimizes the effect of fiber deteriorating collagenase. 2. By reducing the swelling, it allows collagen fibers to repair neatly. This reduced recovery time is beneficial for the horse and all connections, however the perfect situation is to use cold water hydrotherapy for injury prevention. Prevention is always better than cure. By regular use of cold therapy immediately after hard exercise, many of the stressors within tissues are removed before inflammation develops. For more information Equine Hydrotherapy Spa www..equinespa.co.za
Wound 12 days after 4 hydro treatment sessions
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GAITED TRAVELLER
Photography: Couresty Dreamboxsa
Boschendal Estate
Slip into a Boschendal State of Mind
Working with nature, producing real food and a simple farm lifestyle is at the heart of Boschendal. One of the oldest farms in South Africa, founded in 1685, the farm has grown with the passing centuries into a cherished source of wholesome produce, great wines and happy memories. In 2013 Boschendal was acquired by new owners, with the intention of rejuvenating this magnificent property. With Rob and Sam Lundie at the head, the Farm has attracted a team of 450 talented people who share the dream of making Boschendal into a top agricultural farm; a farm that produces sought after naturally produced food and great wines; and a farm where the natural environment thrives and local communities prosper.
Today, Boschendal is a Cape winelands icon and an acclaimed wine and food destination. The vineyards and fruit trees have been joined by vegetable gardens and a growing herd of free range, 100% pasture fed Angus cattle reflecting the commitment to serving wholesome food.
Set in the Drakenstein Valley between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes, lush gardens and vines, the original farmstead is now a national monument with a rich and intriguing history of more than 300 years.
Sam Lundie has been instrumental in bringing horse power back to Boschendal and has a deep affection for these noble animals which she loves to share with other horse lovers.
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GAITED TRAVELLER
The horses on Boschendal By Sam Lundie. reaches of our beautiful farm: the equine equivalent of seven league boots.
In the old black and white photographs of Boschendal there is always a patient horse standing wearily in the background, sometimes leaning into a plough or dragging a rickety cart laden with fruit. Solid, indispensable, ubiquitous.
We now run many horse activities for our visitors, the most popular of which is our hour-long outride, which takes you on a gentle route through pear orchards and across rivers and leaves you at the Farm Shop and Deli for coffee and cake.
Having just watched Hans till a tiny corner of our Werf Food Garden with the help of Mufasa, our 11 year old Percheron, I tip my hat to the teams that worked this 2000 hectare farm in the days before tractors. It was a dusty job which took four of us the best part of the morning and resulted in furrows that look as if they have been carved into the soil by a one-legged drunk with a sharpened stick.
Boschendal was made to be explored by horse. Forests, rivers, fynbos and rocky mountain paths are light work for long legs. Their broad, warm backs make a comfortable seat even on a crisp winter’s day. For the more adventurous, we set off in the early morning and hack into the nature conservancy side of the farm for a hot breakfast cooked over an open fire. Our boma overlooks some of the most beautiful, unspoiled scenery in the Western Cape. There is no more relaxing way to start the day.
With all due respect to John Deere though, horses add a special energy to a farm and keep one in touch with another, more romantic era when rural life was infinitely more laborious and time moved past with the slow ooze of molasses. This idealistic notion led us to bring in a team of 7 gentle draft horses, who were initially contracted to pull the irrigation pods to water our pastures, to move our egg mobiles from field to field and to take our security force to places that even the bakkies struggled to reach.
For those seeking a memorable wine tasting experience, we run a historical, horse-drawn wagon between our two tasting areas and we also run pony rides and Shetland cart rides in our picnic area for our younger guests. A horse carriage wedding service is available for the romantically inclined.
We quickly discovered that these naturally gregarious, dependable horses; 4 black Percherons, Mufasa, Glint, Shine and Rock, 2 Friesians, Queens Bess and Vicky, and a wonderful, amiable Clydesdale called Mr Parker were just as happy working with our guests as in the fields (shorter hours, more carrots) and so we started to use them to enable people to explore the further
Our horses are very relaxed and incredibly friendly. Percherons were bred through the ages for their solid and unflappable natures, Clydesdales for their strength and willingness to work alongside humans. These qualities endear them to us and make them ideal for even novice riders. We are so proud to have them on the team!
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GAITED TRAVELLER Eating at Boschendal The Werf Restaurant The Werf Restaurant opened in April 2015 under the direction of executive chef Christiaan Campbell. Situated in the beautifully revamped original cellar of the Manor House, the focus at the Werf Restaurant is on presenting innovative countrystyle cuisine using the best of available local, seasonal and ethically-sourced ingredients. This is offered in an eclectic environment of decor and cooking spaces where the kitchen comes out of the shadows and comes alive inside the restaurant.
The Werf Butchery The Werf Butchery is a “whole animal”operation offering visitors dry-aged meat, hand-crafted charcuterie, regional specialities and meat products like biltong and dried wors. Our Beef,Chicken and Lamb is 100% pasture raised and reared. The Pork is locally sourced from ethical producers at the moment, but we hope to add our own offering soon.
Rhone Homestead Rhone, our oldest Homestead, dating from 1795, has been newly decorated with many of our heirloom antiques. It hosts our traditional Cape buffet on Saturday’s and Sunday’s in season, and Sundays in winter throughout the year, and by reservation for groups, meetings and conferences of 20 or more.
The Farm Shop and Deli What was once the original waenhuis, or wagon house of Boschendal, has been sensitively restored into the Farms shop & Deli.
Picnics
This family-friendly destination serves delicious breakfasts, lunch, and dinner with tables both inside the contemporary rustic bistro-style restaurant and outside under shady oak trees in a tranquil area. The Farm shop & Deli also stocks a range of products including Boschendal’s Angus Beef, fresh farm bread and patisserie, farm grown fruit and vegetables, artisanal jams, home-made preserves and local olive oils.
Boschendal has long been famous for its generous picnic baskets enjoyed on the spacious estate lawns, and during the warm summer months the estate gardens provide the perfect setting for a picnic lunch in the shadow of the Simonsberg.
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GAITED TRAVELLER The Rose Garden This internationally acclaimed rose garden, designed by Gwen Fagan, features many of the original roses that were cultivated at the Cape and in the East Indies and also the Kew collection which was donated to Boschendal in the 70‘s.
Guests can choose between two options: The Rhone Classic Picnic: which is situated near the Cellar Door Tasting Centre and Rhone Homestead. Seating is at tables or on a picnic blanket on the lawn. Fully serviced. Open daily. The Werf Garden Picnic: is a family-friendly, casual experience where guests are welcome to bring their own fold-up chairs, blankets and tables or make use of the hammocks and bean bags provided. Wednesday to Sunday. Live music on the first Sunday of every month during season.
Splish Splash Play Area Kids will be entertained for hours playing in the flowing water troughs and sand areas. MTB and Walking Trails
Wine Tourism
The Silver Mine Walking Trail is a self-guided (for staying guests only) or guided tour, that takes in the historical ruins above Rhodes Dam as well as the deep tunnels and caves dug out by silver prospectors. The Kloof Nature Trail climbs to the base of the Simonsberg cliffs and (stages) then descends via an indigenous-treed kloof. Farm roads, jeep tracks and single track courses through forests provide variety for casual mountain bikers. A permit for bikers, available at the Farm Shop and Deli, provides entry to the trails.
Vineyard Tour: Great wines begin in the vineyards and we invite you to immerse yourself in our producing vines with a guided trip through the extensive patchwork of varietals and natural beauty of Boschendal. Take in the mountain landscapes and remarkable vistas while enjoying a taste of wine at The Viewpoint which is the highest point on the farm. Cellar Tour: Take a walk through our fermentation and maturation cellars where row upon row of oak barrels nurse the young wines destined for drinking pleasure around the world. Cellar Door Tasting Centre: This is the oldest building on the estate located under the shade of one of the oldest oak trees on the Estate. We will introduce you to the pleasures of our exceptional wines as well as our secret stash of award winning limited releases.
Weddings and Conferences The Olive Press Barn is for functions, events and many glamorous weddings. It is user-friendly as well for conferences and can be tailor-made to fit guest requirements. Accommodation
Activities
Guest accommodation offers luxurious cottage accommodation ranging from the historic Rhodes Cottage built by Sir Herbert Baker to the elegantly restored Werf and Orchards Cottages.
The Boschendal Gardens Besides the impressive collection of old trees on the farm, Boschendal boasts immaculate awardwinning gardens which are a haven of serenity and beauty.
All cottages have a full kitchen, or kitchenette in the smaller cottages, and are serviced daily. Only an hour’s drive from Cape Town, they are ideal for wineland getaways and romantic weekends.
The Food Garden The 2 ha food garden in front of The Werf Restaurant is decorative and educational as well as providing the fresh produce required by all the eateries on the farm. Its produce is also sold directly to the public, the local community and restaurants in the area. Regular guided tours are available on weekends.
Visit our comprehensive and detailed website at www.boschendal.co.za or phone us at +27 21 870-4200 to enquire about any of our services, events or to book.
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HILLARY HOOFPICK
Hillary Hoofpick What not to do at the stable yard where you stable your horse These are truthful events that have taken place in livery yards in south africa Mainly Gauteng • Mainly kyalami sleep in a dirty stable.
Convince yourself that your horse is the most important horse in the entire yard and deserves VIP treatment.
Ask if you can have a discount on your livery bill as finances are a bit tight this month.
Ask for the biggest stable even though your horse is only 15.2hh and the horse currently in the biggest stable is a 17.2hh open show jumper that jumped a clear round at the Derby this year.
Bring your dogs to the yard and laugh when they chase the chickens, other dogs and horses that actually reside on the property.
Ask that your horse is allowed to roam freely around the property as you do not like him to be restricted to a small paddock.
Send a message after 10 pm to the yard owner/ manager saying that you want your horse tacked up for 5:30 am the next morning.
Decide that you need to visit your horse every Monday morning even though the yard is closed.
Send a message at 6:30 the next morning saying that you over slept and you are not going to make it.
Invite friends and family to a picnic at the stable yard on a Sunday afternoon without first consulting the yard owner/manager.
Decide that your horse needs a companion and buy a goat that you leave in your horses stable without telling anyone.
Park your car in the yard owners garage as you don’t like the seats of your convertible to be hot when you drive home after riding.
Park your horsebox in the middle of the yard because you don’t know how to reverse it and everyone must go round you.
Change your horses feed without consulting the yard owner/manager.
Ride the yard owner/managers horse while they are away and the horse is resting.
Expect the groom that has been allocated to you to stand and move jumps all morning while you ride and get annoyed when he has other work to do. After all you tip him much more than the other clients at the yard do.
Treat the yard owner/managers house like a club house, help yourself to coffee and various other items of food and even make international phone calls from their phone. Prune all the hedges around the yard owner/ managers house.
Go into the tack room and ‘borrow’ other peoples tack without permission, put it back dirty or broken and deny any knowledge of how it ended up in that state.
Use the toilet inside the yard owner/managers home as you don’t like using the toilet in the clubhouse.
Run over the yard owner/managers dog and pretend that it was someone else.
Use all the coloured jumping poles that have just been painted as trotting poles and leave them on the ground after you have finished riding.
Paint your horses stable purple because the ‘horse whisperer’ said that your horse liked the colour.
Change the distances between jumps to suit your much smaller horse/pony.
Visit your horse after 5:30 pm and phone the yard owner/manager and complain because your horse has done a poo in his stable and he cant possibly
Only pay your livery account every three months.
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Tailor-made saddles for best performance & comfort. You owe it to yourself and your horse to try WOW™ before buying anything else WOW™ because that is usually the first word people say when they sit in the saddle. ◗ No horse is symmetrical … a perfectly fitting saddle cannot be symmetrical. ◗ WOW™ modular handmade Saddles perfectly fit by incorporating modular – Tree shapes – Panels – Headplates and… ◗ Air flocking in a four-airbag system allows exact adjustment with rider in the saddle to cater for natural equine asymmetry (handedness). ◗ Unique double stirrup bar and 3rd stirrup setting assists the rider to achieve correct shoulder, hip, heel alignment. ◗ Girthing system can be tailored to suit differing girth grooves and saddle “seats”. ◗ Interchangeable system enabling one seat with dressage and showjumping flaps. ◗ Full UK import Handmade on order allowing custom selection of colours, stitching and bling.
“My horses are far to valuable to me in every way, to consider using something as vitally important as a saddle, for any reason other than the horse’s ability to perform to the very best of its’ ability& WOW and Flair are a major step forward in the way we saddle our horses.” – Richard Davison, Four time Olympian & European Medalist.
Quality and technology for performance, comfort and fit.
www.wowsaddles.co.za For a free assessment, fitting and demonstration contact your local agent and accredited fitter, Paula Lasersohn on 083 654 3120 or info@wowsaddles.co.za
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