TURNING OUT PONY CHAMPIONS SINCE
welcome
Welcome to our 2024 Westown South African Youth Champs Special Edition!
We’re delighted to welcome you to this issue, which celebrates all the riders who took part in this magnificent show.
Congratulations to all those who claimed titles, improved on past performances, or just had a great time competing with their horse or pony!
This issue is for you!
GET IN TOUCH
We’d love to hear from you and receive your photos, drawings or pony-related thoughts. To get in touch send an email to lizzie@hqmagazine.co.za and we’ll get back to you!
Designer | Mauray Wolff
Lizzie and the HQ Pony Team Cover photo | Kayeanp Photography
Dressage at the 2024 Westown Youth Champs
The results
2024 Young Rider Elementary Champion of South Africa
Mikayla Perkin
2024 Junior Prelim Champion of South Africa
Marné Grobler
Equitation at the 2024 Westown Youth Champs
The results
SA Junior Open Equitation Championships
The low down
Hamza Minty
The man of the hour
Zara Pappalardo
Pony Rider Open Equitation Champion of South Africa
06
12
Eventing at the 2024 Westown Youth Champs
The results
Showing at the 2024 Westown Youth Champs
The results
Simoné Vermeulen
Shows us how it is done
2024 Pony Rider SA Champions
Jaimie Riley and Sunny Park Stable’s Scooby Doo
Divan Bosman and Cornerstone’s Midgard Zhakiro
Our 2024 Junior Open Individual Showjumping Champions
Future stars
The Neill siblings and their outing to Youth Champs
Products we love
Shopping fun
Dressage at the 2024 Westown Youth Champs
The results
WINNERS OF THE PONY RIDER CHAMPIONSHIP CLASSES
Pony Rider Medium Champion: Lane Laubscher and Lemax Cosmic
Pony Rider Elementary Champion: Mia can der Merwe and Kochra
Bannut Zanzi
Pony Rider Novice Champion: Myrthe Mellema and Harmonie Vabond
Pony Rider Prelim Champion: Signe Esktröm and CDE Cotton Candy
WINNERS OF THE CHILDREN’S CHAMPIONSHIP CLASSES
Children’s Elementary Champion: Gwen Farland and Royal Enclosure
Children’s Novice Champion: Mila Malherbe and Hermione DB
Children’s Prelim Champion: Jennanice Kershaw and Bring My Bow
WINNERS OF THE JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP CLASSES
Junior Advanced Champion: Lane Laubscher and Razdi Pick Me
Junior Medium Champion: Liani Fourie and Mossandi Night of Jazz
Junior Elementary Champion: Samanthe Cole and Mossandi Catch
Junior Novice Champion: Frederick van Rijckevorsel and Equespro’s
Dane Stud Figaro
Junior Prelim Champion: Marne Grobler and Nordic Park
WINNERS OF THE YOUNG RIDER CHAMPIONSHIP CLASSES
Young Rider Small Tour Champion: Frederick van Rijckevorsel and Don Natiello
Young Rider Medium Champion: Tia McCarthy and Freulevrouwe
Young Rider Elementary Champion: Mikayla Perkin and Tialda van Coudenburgh
Young Rider Novice Champion: Zoe Hartley and Eagles Cold Front
Young Rider Prelim Champion: Rhiannon Hugo and Cascade
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
DRESSAGE
WINNERS OF THE PONY RIDER/CHILDREN’S TEAM EVENTS
Open Team: Gauteng/Western Cape
Zara Goeller and Bodenhausen le Chocolatier
Tayden Gonclaves and Sherwill Valedictory
Hannah Harrison and Mr Bobby Dillons
Annabel Noakes Dobson and One and Only
Team Manager: Andrea Harrison/Michelle de Villiers/Moreira
Elementary Team: Gauteng
Gabriella Bianco and CDE Countess of Dia
Vida Burmeister and Lorelock African Sky
Natalie du Preez and Ronnic Honey N’ Nut
Hannah Harrison and TLC Yoki
Team Manager: Andrea Harrison
Novice Team: Gauteng
Zara Goeller and Coco Chanel
Chloe Lawless and Fudge
Mila Malherbe and Wöhlstand Luna of Lagos
Erin Baird and Harmony Whisky
Team Manager: Andrea Harrison
Photography | Megan Wright
DRESSAGE
WINNERS OF THE YOUNG RIDER/JUNIOR TEAM EVENTS
Open Team: Free State
Lane Laubscher and Razdi Pick Me
Liani Fourie and Mossandi Night of Jazz
Tia McCarthy and Freulevrouwe
Nieve Joy Armour and Mossandi Rock Star
Dané Laubscher and Callaho Benedict (Reserve)
Team Manager: Runé Edeling
Elementary Team: Gauteng
Gwen Crompton and Black Jupiter
Hannah du Plessis and La Scalla
Adrienne MacDonald-Hutcheson and Just Jasper
Mikayla Perkin and Tialda van Coudenburgh
Team Manager: Andrea Harrison
Novice Team: Gauteng
Hannah Cooke and Delta Master
Casey-Leigh Smit and Assegai Rejoice
Frederick Van Rijckevorsel and Equespro’s Dane Stud Figaro
Taylor Sinclair-Fourie and Mulanje Gold
Team Manager: Andrea Harrison
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
Photography | Megan Wright
2024 Young Rider Elementary Champion of South Africa
Mikayla Perkin
We caught up with the talented Mikayla Perkin after her individual and team victories at Youth Champs with her special Friesian mare Tialda van Coudenburgh (Mama). A sure talent for the future of dressage in South Africa, Mikayla has inspired us with her humble, hard-working approach to the sport and her dedication to her horse.
HQP: Congratulations on your outstanding performance at Youth Champs! What does it mean to you to be the 2024 Young Rider Elementary Champion of South Africa?
MP: Thank you so much! It truly means so much to me to get the 2024 Young Rider Elementary Champion title on the most incredible mare I have had the pleasure of riding and getting to know. It’s such an amazing feeling when all of the hard work, sweat and tears pay off in such a way!
HQP: Tell us how the show generally went for you. What were the highlights for you?
MP: We had an extremely successful show, and I couldn’t have asked for more! From the long drive down to Shongweni, being in an entirely different place, to all the madness of the show and ponies everywhere, Mama (Tialda) was just a superstar!
I would definitely have to say that seeing how well Gauteng did in the team events was a true highlight for me! Dressage has an extremely bright future! Winning the individual championship and a team competition was absolutely fantastic, and I’m so proud to have been a part of it all.
Another highlight for me would simply be the support that I had from my family, as I wouldn’t have been there without them!
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
HQP: Tell us about your special horse, Tialda van Coudenburgh.
MP: Tialda, more affectionately known as Mama (because my mom owns her two sons and she’s the main lady down at the yard!), is a 10-year-old imported Friesian who my mom, Sarah Perkin, bought four years ago and completed up to medium.
I lost my heart horse about four months ago, so my mom gave me the ride on Mama, which I am so truly grateful and thankful for! It is unbelievable how much Mama has taught me in the short time of our partnership; there’s not a single day where I won’t learn something new from her. She is just the most remarkable mare. For us to make the team and do so well at Youth Champs with only four shows under our belt and 4fourmonths of building our relationship is just beyond special to me!!
HQP: When did you get into dressage?
MP: It feels like I have always been around dressage with my mom, but I only got into it seriously about four years ago. I have been around horses my entire life, and it’s been the best growing up with these animals. They teach you so many life lessons that only equestrians can relate to!
HQP: Do you ride other disciplines, and if so, which ones? Did you compete in different disciplines at Youth Champs?
MP: My passion lies with dressage, so I only compete and train in this discipline. I do have the occasional jump at about 60cm max to keep it interesting!
HQP: Would you recommend dressage to other riders, and if so, why?
MP: I recommend dressage to anyone, as your flatwork and lateral movements are so important for any horse! There is truly no better feeling than dancing with your horse, having that connection, and becoming one with the animal; it is a feeling I could never replicate!
HQP: What are your plans for the future with your riding?
MP: I plan to go up the grades as far as possible, with lots of hard work and dedication. I’m sure something most South African equestrians work towards, or dream of, is to ride overseas, and my goal is most definitely to ride in Europe, especially the Netherlands and Germany; to go over to learn from that experience would truly be incredible and something I hope I can achieve one day! And most importantly, I want to always have fun with the animal I love!
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
2024 Junior Prelim Champion of South Africa (and much more!)
Marné Grobler
Marné Grobler is a true multi-discipline rider, and her achievements across the board show the value of her approach. Here, we focus on her win in the dressage, where she became the 2024 Junior Prelim Champion of South Africa, but we could equally be discussing her showing, eventing, equitation or showjumping talents!
HQP:
Tell us about your performances on your horses, Admiral’s Choice and Nordic Park.
MG: At Youth Champs, with my first horse, Admiral’s Choice, I received third place in eventing overall. In showjumping, I did three classes. I received a third in the accumulator, a fifth in the A2 speed, and in the competition class, I received a seventh place.
For my second horse, Nordic Park, I received second place for the Team’s Working Riding and first for the Team’s Working Hunter. I received first place for the individual Working Riding and was crowned Novice Working Riding Champion. Then, I did Prelim Dressage, and for my first test, I came first, and for my second test, I came second. In the Championship, I came first and had to do a Freestyle, which we won. The Freestyle was stressful as we only had twenty-four hours to plan a test to music! I also received the Victor Ludorum for the Junior Prelim Dressage.
Photography | Denford Studios
DRESSAGE
HQP: Tell us about your special pony, Nordic Park.
MG: Nordic Park – what a special boy! He is a 17-year-old Thoroughbred sired by Camden Park. He previously competed in the 1.10m and lower level eventing. We bought this horse for my mom as a schoolmaster, but if she doesn’t look, I catch him and go for a ride because he has the kindest soul and is so calm. On every ride, he gives his best. He loves to go to the kitchen door and get some carrots. He is a horse in a million, with a big heart, and he thinks his owner is his everything.
HQP: When did you get into dressage?
MG: I started three years ago with Amy Tolmay. It was a hard discipline to start, but it was worth it, and I love it now. In the beginning, I hated dressage and I didn’t want to do it. I was forced to do it because of the eventing but when I received Nordic Park as my dressage horse, I loved it. He just made everything so lovely and so enjoyable!
Photography | Denford Studios
HQP:
MG:
balance and strength. It helps the rider to improve their seat. It also improves the communication between the horse and the rider and creates a special bond between them.
HQP:
MG:
Admiral’s Choice, Nordic Park and Magical Raven, and my goal is to qualify for SANESA Nationals.
Nordic Park and I will also compete this weekend in Gauteng Dressage Champs.
One of my goals for Nordic Park in dressage is to ride in Novice next year and then go to Elementary and Medium dressage.
HQP: Marné – your dedication to the sport, in all its forms, is inspirational! Thank you for taking the time to chat to us. We’re sure we’ll see plenty more wins in the near future.
Photography | Denford Studios
Equitation at the 2024 Westown Youth Champs
The results
PONY RIDER NOVICE EQUITATION INDIVIDUAL CHAMPIONSHIP
1st Emily Neill and Font Winter Sun (GP)
PONY RIDER INTERMEDIATE EQUITATION INDIVIDUAL CHAMPIONSHIP
1st Hayley Lillico and Cool Alley (KZN)
PONY RIDER OPEN EQUITATION INDIVIDUAL CHAMPIONSHIP
1st Zara Pappalardo and Rooigras Elle (GP)
JUNIOR INTERMEDIATE EQUITATION INDIVIDUAL CHAMPIONSHIP
1st Samatha Cole and Mossandi Catch (WC)
JUNIOR NOVICE EQUITATION INDIVIDUAL CHAMPIONSHIP
1st Tayla Hayward and Rivens Double Dutch (GP)
JUNIOR OPEN EQUITATION INDIVIDUAL CHAMPIONSHIP
1st Alexandra Ric-Hansen and Callaho Laios
PONY NOVICE TEAM RESULTS
Winners: Gauteng
PONY INTERMEDIATE TEAM RESULTS
Winners: Western Cape
JUNIOR NOVICE TEAM RESULTS
Winners: Western Cape
JUNIOR INTERMEDIATE TEAM RESULTS
Winners: Western Cape
JUNIOR OPEN TEAM RESULTS
Winners: KZN
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Megan Wright
SA Junior Open Equitation Championships
The low down
One of the wonders of Youth Champs each year is the variety of disciplines on display and the number of riders competing at the top of these. We would argue that one of the most coveted titles on offer at the show is that of Junior Open Equitation Champion; this is not only because the winner has competed against riders from around the country for the title or that this title is more rider-based than any other, but also because it qualifies the rider to ride in the most prestigious (in our opinion) equitation event on the calendar, the Philip Smith Memorial Equitation Championships.
This year
This year, an incredibly strong field of 32 riders representing Gauteng, KZN, the Western Cape, the Eastern Cape and the Free State vied for the title. Amongst these competitors were several riders (and horses) who had previously qualified for the Philip Smith, including Juliana Haden-Smith, Katie Frack, Olivia Roberts, Mikaela Martin, and Hamza Minty.
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
The test
A ‘Special Test’ is released each year for the Championships at Youth Champs. This year, the Open Individual Championships required riders in Part One to:
1
Enter at canter and show 10-12 strides of lengthened canter.
2
In collected canter, ride a +/- 15m circle, trot and lengthen the trot for 8-10 strides, and then canter another +/- 15m circle in collected canter on the opposite rein.
3
Halt and rein back 3-5 steps.
4
Jump the three jumps set on a straight line on a serpentine track (five efforts), maintaining the canter.
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
DID YOU KNOW?
Once you have won the Philip Smith, you are not eligible to compete in the event for a second time.
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
EQUITATION
In Part Two, riders jumped the course (at 1.10m) and were judged on rhythm, track, accuracy and position.
Eight riders progressed to Part Three, where they swapped horses, drawing a random horse from a bag. After a very short familiarisation, they had to:
1 Trot +/- 10m circle.
2 Canter +/- 15m circle.
3
Lengthen the canter +/-20m circle, collect the canter and show a flying change or change through the walk to the opposite rein.
4
Jump one jump (no stirrups).
5
Jump two other jumps, including a combination.
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
DID YOU KNOW?
If Alex wins the SA Adult Champs, she will be the first rider ever to be crowned Pony, Junior and Adult SA Champion!
Unlike most other equitation competitions, the Individual Championships had a Part Four. Part Four is only used if “the athletes with the top two scores after Part Three have less than four marks separating 1st and 2nd place.” This was the case this year, and two riders progressed to Part Four: Alexandra Ric-Hansen and Hamza Minty. In Part Four, they were both required to ride the ‘mystery horse’, the six-year-old gelding, Capital Chaplin, and perform the following test:
1
Enter at canter and show two changes of leg on a straight line.
2
Perform a figure 8, where the first circle is in trot and the second circle is in canter. Then, the pair must lengthen the canter on the circle.
3
Jump three verticals on a straight line on a serpentine track (three efforts), maintaining the canter.
With three judges able to allocate a maximum of 20 points for each phase, giving a maximum possible point total of 240 points, Alex and Hamza achieved an incredible average of 18.7/20 with only two points separating them. Alex and Callaho Laios came out on top with 224.5 (out of a possible 240), with Hamza and Erreplus Atoki in second with 222.5!
Catch up with Alexandra Ric-Hansen
Here, we catch up with Alexandra after her SA Junior Open Equitation Championship win.
HQP: Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
Alex: I recently turned 18 and have spent my whole life in KZN, in an area five minutes away from Shongweni Club. I’m still in traditional school, but I finish this year, and I hope to continue studying next year.
HQP: How and when did you start riding?
Alex: I have loved riding my whole life. I started when I was two years old and haven’t stopped since. I started because my brother did it, and I wanted to join. My mother had always ridden but more recreationally and decided to take my brother to lessons, and then eventually, I went. My brother stopped, but I continued.
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
FAST FACT
Capital Chaplin is by Capital Colnardo and is out of a Capital Conlanc mare. Capital Conlanc and Jenna Eager were the SA Junior Open Equitation Champions in 2022!
HQP: Can you tell us a bit about your Pony Rider career?
Alex: My pony career officially started in 2015 in the 50 cm classes. I slowly progressed through the heights until 2018, when I started in the Open Pony Riders with Laddie (My Irish Boy) and Why Not. I had my first significant pony win that year with Laddie when we won the FEI Children’s Gold Tour, but then we had to regroup because of a confidence knock. In 2019, the year started with winning the Open Pony Rider President’s Cup on Laddie and later on in the year, we won the Open Pony Rider SA Champs, Derby and the 1.20m Youth Extravaganza. Why Not also played an important role and helped me win the 1.10m Youth Extravaganza and Pony Rider Open Equitation. I am incredibly grateful for the wonderful ponies my parents gifted me and how they allowed me to grow in the sport. I wouldn’t be here without them and all the lessons they taught me.
HQP: You are also one of a handful of riders that have won both PR SA Showjumping Champs and Junior SA Showjumping Champs. Could you tell us about those wins?
Alex: Both are wins I hold very close to my heart. It has always been a dream of mine to win the Pony Rider SA Champs, and in 2019, Laddie made it come true. That year, Champs was held in the Bob Charter, but we had yet to be able to jump in it due to the excessive rain we had in the week. Luckily, on the last day, the arena dried, and we could jump in it. Laddie was the only pony to jump the full two rounds and the jumpoff clear, and we ended up with the win. That was my last official show on Laddie, and Laddie jumped about nine clear rounds that show. Laddie rose to the occasion, and I’m always grateful to have been a part of his career. Then, in the SA Champs in 2022, my special Laios fought to help me win the Junior Open SA Champs. Laios and I had already won the Junior Outdoor Grand Prix and Derby that year, but I didn’t feel confident starting the SA Champs. We had quite a few poles before the Championship, and I was not convinced I was a competitor for the title, but Laios showed me I was wrong. Only two of us were clear after the first two rounds, and luckily, we could claim the win. I will forever be grateful for how Laios fought for me that day and how he always continues to fight for me in the ring. Both wins are some of my favourite wins, and I couldn’t be more grateful for my parents and the opportunities they have given me with my horses.
HQP: Could you tell us a bit about your special Laios and how your partnership began?
Alex: My golden child and I began our journey in 2020 with the help of Ronnie Healy, who found Laios for us. We bought Laios from Craig Rankin. Rainer Korber had produced Laios up to the 1.30m. My little man is my heart horse and has a heart of gold. We bought Laios to be my Junior horse, but he has exceeded all expectations. Sadly, we got stuck in lockdown due to COVID-19, so Laios and I could not compete. Straight after the lockdown was lifted, Laios and I did our first 1.30. together, which was my first ever 1.30m. We continued to grow together, and later that year, we did our first 1.35m. It wasn’t until 2022 that Laois and I had an incredible year, but that year, we won the Junior Outdoor Grand Prix, Derby and SA Champs. Then, in 2023, Laios and I turned to the Adult classes and did our first 1.50. Little Laios is a very special horse in my life and has given me so much confidence in the ring. He truly has given me everything, and recently, Laios made another dream come true and jumped around our first World Cup. Laios is nothing but perfection in my eyes.
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
HQP: You say ‘Little Laios’; how big is he?
Alex: He is just a little over 16 hands.
HQP: That is amazing! What are your plans with Laios, and can you tell us about the other horses in your string and your plans with them?
Alex: With Laios, I hope to continue in the 1.50m classes and World Cups and maybe try the ‘Big’ Derby, but at the end of the day, Laios will tell me what he wants to do, and I will always listen. Laios has found his forever home, and I owe him for everything he has done for me. I’m fortunate to have a special mare, Lemalia, coming up the grades. We bought her in 2022 but could only import her at the end of last year. She is a very spicy mare with a whole lot of attitude but loves jumping. She is quite tricky to get on and sound-sensitive, but she has slowly improved with some work and time to relax. I hope for her to be a World Cup horse, but for the rest of the year, I want to get her a lot stronger and back to her old self like when we bought her; I’m in no rush with her.
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
FAST FACT
Alex is the only rider to have won the ‘Junior Triple Crown’; she did this in 2022 when she won the Junior Outdoor GP, Junior SA Champs and the Junior Derby!
HQP: How long have you been competing in equitation?
Alex: I’ve done it since I was maybe ten, starting in the Pony Rider Novice. So, for about eight years now.
HQP: What does it mean to you to have won the SA Junior Open Equitation Championship title and qualified for the Philip Smith?
Alex: I honestly didn’t believe that I would win it. I usually have bad luck with my Part Three horses, and I was worried it would happen at SA Champs, but I was very lucky to draw a lovely horse, TI Wavedancer. It was a very tough mix of riders, and I’m extremely grateful that I could win and thankful to my coach, Jenna Odell, for helping me along the way.
It has always been a dream of mine to ride the Philip Smith, and this was my last chance. I am very excited to ride this event but also a little scared because of all the no-stirrup work I will face over the next few months. I feel very honoured to have this opportunity.
HQP: What is the best equitation and showjumping advice that you have received?
Alex: The best equitation advice, I would say, is to always sit on the horse and ride it to your own feeling, even if you have been told how to ride them.
The best showjumping advice would be to let the jump come to me and not always take the first stride you see.
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
HQP: And lastly, we have to ask… You’ve won the SA Equitation Championships and just jumped your first World Cup Qualifier; how did you handle all that pressure?
Alex: I’m very lucky in the sense that I can tunnel my nerves into concentration. I usually sit in a secluded spot and try to convince myself that the jumps aren’t that big. I try not to dwell on my nerves; sometimes, I will play games on my phone or talk to my dad as a distraction. Once the course is open, my nerves tend to disappear, and I become focused on the task of jumping the round I walked. Once I get on to warm up, my nerves are gone because I am more focused on the task at hand, and I always remind myself that ‘If it is meant to be, it will be’. Jenna is also constantly reminding me that Laios is capable, and so am I, and this provides me with a lot of comfort before shows like the WCQ.
Well, a big congratulations to you for adding another ‘big’ Junior title to your CV; we look forward to seeing you in the Philip Smith and we’re confident you’ll be claiming adult titles in no time!
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
Hamza Minty
The man of the hour
With the SASJ Junior Rankings released after the SA Youth Champs, we find Hamza Minty retaining and extending his lead in the 2024 Junior HighPerformance Rankings and the Junior Showjumper of the Year rankings with Callaho Conray.
We quickly caught up with Hamza to learn about his successful 2024 SA Youth Champs Show, where he finished on the podium in both the Individual Open Equitation and the Junior 1.35m Championships!
HQP: Can you tell us a bit about yourself, when and how you started riding and what disciplines you do?
Hamza: I am 15 years old; I started riding at the age of eight. I currently have four Open horses and two young horses. I compete up to 1.40m in showjumping and in Junior Open Equitation.
HQP: Could you talk us through your experience of the SA Individual Equitation Champs Class and tell us about the horse you competed on? Hamza: This year, it was a tough competition and had some of the best riders in the class. It was definitely harder than last year. The first two phases were actually a walk in the park, and I just had to ride like normal. In Part Three, I got a lovely horse who was very sweet and straightforward, but Alex Ric-Hansen and I were tied. In Part Four, we rode Capital Chaplin, who was amazing. Alex won, and I came 2nd.
Photography | Megan Wright
It was a fantastic experience because the top three, including myself, all ride with Jenna Odell in KZN, so Jenna was really proud, but Olivia and I are also part of the Chambourne Team with Chad Cunningham).
Regarding horses, I was lucky enough to get the ride on Kiara Burns’ Erreplus Atoki. He is just a dream to ride. Even though I have a wide variety of horses myself, I didn't want them doing more than one discipline at Champs, so I was going to scratch the equitation. At the WCQ a few weeks prior, I was sitting with Kiara, and I remembered that last Champs, she rode Atoki and got amazing marks but unfortunately dismounted. If she had not, she would have been in the Philip Smith Memorial Competition. So we spoke and planned for him to come down for me to compete.
HQP: You were runner-up in the Philip Smith this year, and with second place in the SA Individual Equitation Youth Champs, you have qualified again! How do you feel about competing in the PSM again, and what will you do differently?
Hamza: I am super excited to have qualified for PSM again this year. I'm going to definitely give it my all and try to win it this year. It wasn't as daunting as you would expect… In the beginning, it was a little stressful, but as it went on, it got better. I'm just going to keep calm and let it go on as it is.
Photography | Megan Wright
HQP:
warm-up classes and two horses in the jump-off for the SA Junior Champs title. Can you talk us through your show and how the Champs class went?
Hamza: All my horses jumped amazingly! Conray has stayed on form since President’s Cup a few months back and won the first two qualifiers, so went into the Champs Class as the highest qualifier. Qui Cassa had a decent first two classes, and then she just stepped up and jumped flying clear rounds in the Champs Class (including my jump off with the error). I'm super happy for Divan, the winner of the class. He rode unbelievably, and he definitely deserved it.
Photography | Megan Wright
HQP: Please tell us a bit about your current string of horses and what your plans are with them.
Hamza: I got my dual license this year and have done a few adult shows. I have Callaho Conray as my top horse at the moment, competing in the 1.40m, and we're planning on moving him up to the 1.50 sometime at the end of the year.
Next, I have my once-in-a-lifetime horse, Callaho Qui Cassa; she has the biggest heart in the world. Even though she’s just over 15.1hh she's jumped a round a few 1.40m classes successfully. Then I have Callaho Corida de Rebelle, who we purchased on the 2022 Callaho Auction for my brother; they didn't get along, so I took over the ride and produced her up to the 1.30m. Continental Drift (Conti) - I'm sure many people know this one. She is the one horse off the ground more than on the ground at shows. She's a whack job, and she is my craziest horse. I also have a young Thoroughbred who recently attended his first show. Last but not least, I was fortunate enough to have recently purchased Conray’s full brother, Callaho Con Calito (Lilo), at the auction a few weeks back. I'm super excited about our journey together and can't wait for him to arrive.
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
HQP: How do you deal with competition nerves?
Hamza: People actually think I deal with nerves well, but as a matter of fact, I don't. I feel really sick in my stomach and can't talk to anyone. What I find that helps me with nerves is sitting on the fence and just breathing and also sitting with certain people who are calm and also need time to get in the zone, like Luca Waston and Olivia Roberts.
HQP: And a final fun question: if you could compete with any horse in South Africa, which would you choose and why?
Hamza: I would compete Capital My Lady of Thomas van Rijckevorsel or Bronwyn Dos Santos’ Bibisi. I just love those two horses. They are my type of horse; they are little, quick, and have scope for days. I also love a good mare!
HQP: Thank you so much, and we wish you all the best!
Photography | Megan Wright
EQUITATION
Photography | Megan Wright
Zara Pappalardo
Pony Rider Open Equitation Champion of South Africa
The Pony Rider Open Equitation Championship saw a very high standard of riding amongst the talented young athletes who took part. Eight riders progressed to Part Three of the competition, and Zara Pappalardo and Rooigras Elle, representing Gauteng, emerged victorious from Part Three with a whopping eleven-point lead.
Here at HQ Pony, we’ve interviewed Zara before and have always been impressed by her work ethic, dedication to her horses and ponies, and professionalism in the ring. We’re so delighted to see her win this Championship and much-deserved title. Congratulations, Zara!
HQP: Zara, can you please tell us a bit about yourself, including your age, when you started riding, and what disciplines you do?
ZP: I’m 13 years old. I started riding when I was very young and went to my first lead rein show when I was 18 months old; I rode a section A Welsh Pony called Meifod Temptation that my granny bred.
Currently, I compete on Regenesis Vet Rooigras Elle in Pony Open Showjumping and Pony Rider Open Equitation and Vix in the Junior 1.10m classes and Junior Novice Equitation.
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
HQP: Can you tell us about the ponies and horses, past and present, that have been important in your career?
ZP: My first pony was called Ben Hur Nic. He was a Section B Welsh pony, and I learned to ride on him. He was the sweetest soul. He lived to the age of 40!
I also rode Boesman, who is now retired. He taught me how to go fast and gave me all the confidence I needed!
I have a pony, Carel Hancke Donatello, who I jumped to the 1.00m classes, but unfortunately, he went unsound. I produced him from a Prelim Dressage pony and ultimately did Elementary Medium Dressage on him. He helped me understand how vital dressage is, which really helps me in my riding now.
My current Open pony is Regenesis Vet Rooigras Elle, a purebred SA Boerperd. I produced her from the 80cm to the 1.10m classes in a year, and she is just amazing! She had colic surgery a year ago, and she’s back better than ever!
My Junior horse is Vix, who I started riding when Ellie had her surgery. I’ve been on her for just one year, and we are in the 1.10m classes!
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
HQP:
ZP: Showjumping, Pony Rider 90cm Showjumping, Junior Novice Equitation and Junior 1.10m Showjumping.
HQP: How did you prepare for the Pony Rider Open Equitation class? Can you tell us how the Championship class went, how you found the pony you rode in Part Three and how you felt about your rounds?
ZP: I have been preparing for this for the past three years! I was second in this competition last year by 0.5 marks, and this year, I was determined to be better. I worked on my flatwork part of the test with my coach, Zdenek Muchna, and we planned a few ideas. I was fortunate enough to also have a lesson with Mandy Johnstone in preparation for the show. My Part One was great, and Elle behaved and didn’t buck in the lengthened canter; she can sometimes be a little cheeky! The Part Two jumping round felt good, and Elle was positive and forward to the jumps.
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
EQUITATION
I was so excited when I heard I received a 20 from one of the Judges! I had a big smile and patted and hugged Elle. I was so proud of Ellie! In Part Three, I rode Bodenhausen le Chocolatier, owned by Zara Goeller, and he was so good with me!
I was super nervous before going into the arena and went in with no expectations, but I won by 11 marks! The result I achieved would not be possible without the team backing me the whole way!
HQP: What are the most important things to focus on to do well in equitation?
ZP: Your appearance and the way you ride are very important because the Judges look at the way you ride from the moment you enter the arena. The position of your lower leg, if you are sitting up straight, if you are carrying your hands – these are just basic things that can get you extra marks! I also advise that you plan your test in such a way that you show off all the things you do well. Finally, my advice is to be neatly turned out; my mom always makes sure Elle looks like she’s going into a showing class for equitation!
Photography | Megan Wright
HQP: What are your plans with your horses going forward?
ZP: With Ellie, I definitely want to continue in the 1.10m classes and with Vix, I want to get up into the Junior Opens. My short-term goal is to win a few more classes on Ellie and be in the 1.20m classes by the end of the year with Vix. I ride ponies for Pony Perfection and would like to produce them for the Open pony classes as well. My long-term goal is a dream that I have to go ride in Italy. I would also love to compete in the Derby and the President’s Cup!
HQP: What is one equestrian title that you would love to win one day?
ZP: The Pony Open Equitation was a big win for me; Elle and I also won the first SA Pony Rider Indoor Grand Prix at Maxwell’s Equestrian Centre in June. That was also an amazing win. But in terms of future titles, definitely Derby or one of the other big titles!
Photography | Megan Wright
Eventing at the 2024 Westown Youth Champs
The results
INDIVIDUAL PONY RIDER EV65 CHAMPIONS
1st Ella Hanekom and Firecracker (WC)
2nd Jonathan De Beer and Caleb (KZN)
3rd Mila Erlank and Jolly Rezell (KZN)
INDIVIDUAL PONY RIDER EV75 CHAMPIONS
1st Scout Ferguson and Cincinnati Dusk (WC)
2nd Leila Barff and Lorelock Birthday Belle (KZN)
3rd Iona Slingsby and Robin Marley (WC)
INDIVIDUAL PONY RIDER EV85 CHAMPIONS
1st Sophie Cox and Serenity (WC)
2nd Olivia Goussard and Damian Marley (WC)
3rd Piper Welchbrodt and Jonjon (EC)
INDIVIDUAL JUNIOR EV65 CHAMPIONS
1st Hannah Musset and Khan (KZN)
2nd Zandri Kruger and FEC Vlampies Praire (Free State)
3rd Marne Martie Grobler and Admiral’s Choice (Gauteng)
INDIVIDUAL JUNIOR EV75 CHAMPIONS
1st Sophie Cox and Last Rudhira FH (WC)
2nd Adrienne Macdonald-Hutcheson and Flying Fantasy (Gauteng)
3rd Annalene van der Merwe and Chantilly Girl (KZN)
INDIVIDUAL JUNIOR EV85 CHAMPIONS
1st Olivia Kinvig and 3 Bits (KZN)
2nd Simon Reeve and True Colours (KZN)
3rd Anna Stack and Rushway’s Jemima Puddleduck (WC)
INDIVIDUAL JUNIOR NOVICE CHAMPIONS
1st Kyla-Rose Tabraham and Harrogate Quete A La Lune (WC)
2nd Kingsley Matthews and Rivervale’s Gucci Rush (KZN)
3rd Esther van Eeden and Manchado Spitfire (KZN)
INDIVIDUAL JUNIOR OPEN CHAMPIONS
1st Adrienne Macdonald-Hutcheson and Just Jasper (Gauteng)
2nd Jaime Welsh and Bodenhausen Japadou (KZN)
3rd Jaime Welsh and Kilmokea (KZN)
Youth Champs had 87 competitors taking part in eventing this year!
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
PONY RIDER EV65 TEAM WINNERS
Kwa-Zulu Natal
PONY RIDER EV75 TEAM WINNERS
Gauteng/Western Cape
JUNIOR EV65 TEAM WINNERS
Kwa-Zulu Natal
JUNIOR EV75 TEAM WINNERS
Western Cape/Limpopo
JUNIOR EV85 TEAM WINNERS
Western Cape
JUNIOR NOVICE TEAM WINNERS
Kwa-Zulu Natal
JUNIOR OPEN TEAM WINNERS
Kwa-Zulu Natal/Western Cape
DID YOU KNOW?
Seven provinces were represented with teams throughout the levels. These were Western Cape, Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Free State, Eastern Cape and Kwa-Zulu Natal).
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
Showing at the 2024 Westown Youth Champs
The results
2024 JUNIOR OPEN SHOWING CHAMPION OF SOUTH AFRICA
Simoné Vermeulen and Heir to the Throne
2024 JUNIOR NOVICE SHOWING CHAMPION OF SOUTH AFRICA
Anisha Kock and Get Lucky
2024 PONY RIDER OPEN SHOWING CHAMPION OF SOUTH AFRICA
Mia van der Merwe and Kochra Bannut Zanzi
2024 PONY RIDER NOVICE SHOWING CHAMPION OF SOUTH AFRICA
Llandilo Lillybrook and Zoe Briscoe
JUNIOR OPEN WORKING HUNTER CHAMPION
Ella Syndercome and Spark a Rhythm
JUNIOR NOVICE WORKING HUNTER CHAMPION
Charlouis Kuhn and Tana Silver Lady
PONY RIDER OPEN WORKING HUNTER CHAMPION
Julia Smith and Lane Visa
PONY RIDER NOVICE WORKING HUNTER CHAMPION
Olivia Goussard and Damien Marley
JUNIOR OPEN WORKING RIDING CHAMPION
Simone Vermeulen and Heir to the Throne
JUNIOR NOVICE WORKING RIDING CHAMPION
Marné Grobler and Nordic Park
PONY RIDER OPEN WORKING RIDING CHAMPION
Olivia Kinvig and 3 Bits
PONY RIDER NOVICE WORKING RIDING CHAMPION
Hanno van Jaarsveld and Storm Rider
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Megan Wright
JUNIOR OPEN SHOW RIDING HORSE CHAMPION
Ella Murphy and Foresyte Lastelle
JUNIOR NOVICE SHOW RIDING HORSE
Mila Malherbe and Hermione DB
OPEN SHOW RIDING PONY CHAMPION
Mia van der Merwe and Kochra Bannut Zanzi
NOVICE SHOW RIDING PONY CHAMPION
Elna de Klerk and Black Pearl
JUNIOR OPEN SHOW HUNTER CHAMPION
Ella Syndercombe and Spark a Rhythm
JUNIOR NOVICE SHOW HUNTER CHAMPION
Kelsey van Rooyen and Velocity Dot Com
PONY RIDER OPEN SHOW HUNTER CHAMPION
Mia van der Merwe and Kochra Bannut Zanzi
PONY RIDER NOVICE SHOW HUNTER CHAMPION
Kristen Oldewage and Dolarch Top of the Castle
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Megan Wright
JUNIOR OPEN SHOW HACK CHAMPION
Simoné Vermeulen and Heir to the Throne
JUNIOR NOVICE SHOW HACK CHAMPION
Mila Malherbe and Hermione DB
OPEN SHOW PONY CHAMPION
Natalie du Preez and Ronnic Honey n’ Nut
NOVICE SHOW PONY CHAMPION
Zoe Briscoe and Llandilo Lillybrook
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Megan Wright
Simoné Vermeulen
Shows us how it is done
Simoné Vermeulen is a dedicated young rider who excels in both showing and dressage with her gelding Heir to the Throne. This year’s Youth Champs is her last as a Junior, and she certainly made it count. Here, we catch up with her on her exceptional showing performance.
HQP: Congratulations on your outstanding performance at Youth Champs! What does it mean to you to be the 2024 Junior Open Showing Champion of South Africa?
SV: It means the world to me! I know very well that as much as a lot of training goes into being a champion, there is still a factor of luck and a need to believe in yourself and your horse. Although I put in all the hours with my incredible trainers, something small, like a horse not travelling well, can play a huge role. But as Samuel Goldwyn says, “the harder I train, the luckier I get”. On top of that, it is incredibly hard to find a horse who is willing to let strangers (i.e. the judges!) ride him or go round foot perfectly for nearly 45 minutes a class. I am very fortunate to have a horse like Heir to the Throne. After the Supremes, when we got down to the stables, I burst into tears of gratitude for my horse and the amazing team around me who made it all possible!
Photography | Megan Wright
HQP: How did being part of the winning Gauteng Open Showing Team feel?
SV: I was very nervous in the weeks leading up to the show as the Eastern Cape had a very strong team last year, but the morning of the team event, I just told myself as much as this was a team thing, everyone just had to do their part and do it well. I knew I had to get myself into the right mindset to get my horse and me into that well-oiled machine that we have been lately. I knew that each and every rider in the team had it in them to bring home gold for Gauteng. I was privileged to be part of such a talented team!
HQP: Tell us how the show went for you generally. What were the highlights?
SV: I loved every second of it! The previous 2022 Youth Champs in Shongweni was such a fast-paced and high-stress show for me that I didn’t fully embrace the experience and take in the moments, but this year, I focused on enjoying my last year as a Junior with my family and friends. This show taught me to appreciate the small victories that allow those big ones to come!
My highlight was the compliments I received on what a lovely ride Heir to the Throne gave the judges because I schooled him myself to provide that comfortable ride and adjust to anyone’s riding style.
Photography | Megan Wright
HQP: Tell us about your special boy, Heir to the Throne.
SV: He is my partner in crime, my best friend, my heart horse, my teacher and the best boy ever! He has such an incredible temperament but is still full of personality. He is a go-getter like me and fully believes he is only a chestnut because he eats so many carrots…
We actually bought him from the Shongweni surrounds back in 2020, but he came up from Natal a week before COVID hit, so we only properly started our partnership at the beginning of 2021. Although our journey hasn’t been easy I wouldn’t change it for the world. He is the perfect horse for me because he knows when I am having a bad day and need a schoolmaster or when he can push me to be a better rider for him.
HQP: Do you ride other disciplines? If so, which ones?
SV: My other passion is dressage. I currently compete at the Medium level and was fortunate to be a part of the Gauteng Open Dressage team this year. Our team brought home a silver medal for Gauteng. Dressage is the discipline where we can show off our fancy footwork.
Photography | Megan Wright
HQP: Would you recommend showing as a discipline to other riders and if so, why?
SV: I fully believe that every horse and rider should enter showing shows. Showing is the basis of everything! It encourages correct riding and the correct way of going for your horse. It requires your horse to show manners both under saddle and on the ground. It rewards correct conformation that will help keep your horse sound for longer. It teaches your horse to stand still and behave whilst ridden both alone and in company! It is the best discipline for green horses or riders to start in!
HQP: What is your advice to someone starting out in showing?
SV: Focus on the basics and hold on to your goals. One day, it will all fall into place. It is a journey, and the end results are worth it. Showing has recently brought out a new handbook for FAQs and the basics, which is very helpful. I advise you to get a copy!
HQP: What are your plans for the future?
SV: I would love to add another incredible horse like my boy to the family! I am taking a gap year next year to shadow some vets and get some work experience before I am off to study equine surgery. Although it is a long degree, I look forward to it and working with my passion every day.
Thank you to HQP for allowing me to share my dreams and passion with you!
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Megan Wright
15 GELDINGS
6 MARES
3 STALLIONS
CHAMPIONSHIPS
2024
FAST FACTS
• 24 starters
• Last year’s winners were Holly Smith and Capital Clarissimo II.
• 5 x riders with two rides in the class. These were: Hamza Minty, Holly Smith, Janine Coetzee, Jade Anderson and Olivia Roberts.
• 21 warmbloods or warmblood crosses (including 2 x horses by Consuelo) and three offthe-track Thoroughbreds.
Six horses bought off local auctions (3 x Capital Stud horses and 3 x Callaho Warmblood Stud horses),
The local studs represented in the class were: Capital, Callaho, Eagles, Lorelock and Maxstar.
10 HORSES IMPORTED
14 HORSES LOCALLY BRED
12 YEARS OLD
Average age of horses 7 YEARS OLD Youngest was
18 YEARS OLD Oldest was
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Megan Wright
HQ SASJ 1.10M PONY
CHAMPIONSHIPS 2024 FAST FACTS
• 22 starters
• Last year’s winners were Anele Ferreira and Nandi.
• Riders with two ponies in the class included Jaimie Riley, KeraMadison MacFarlane and Amber Botes.
Average age of ponies
13 YEARS OLD
Youngest was
7
YEARS OLD
Oldest was
23
YEARS OLD
5
RIDERS
PROGRESSED TO A 4F JUMPOFF, WITH THE AVERAGE AGE OF PONIES IN THE JUMP-OFF BEING 17 YEARS OLD.
Photography | Megan Wright
2024 Pony Rider SA Champions
Jaimie Riley and Sunny Park Stable’s Scooby Doo
Jaimie Riley is a passionate and talented young rider who has been a consistent podium placer at the top level of Pony Riding in South Africa. Last year, she was second in the 1.10m Pony Rider Champs at Youth Champs, and this year, she finished second overall in the Pony President’s Cup and second again in Gauteng Champs. If there’s a moment when you would want to step up and claim the big win, Youth Champs is it, and that is precisely what Jaimie did! Five combinations headed into a fourfault jump-off after the first round failed to produce a single clear round. Jaimie and Scooby Doo jumped clear in 26.94 seconds, taking the win by two seconds, with Amber Botes and First for Horses Rasta taking second, having jumped the only other clear in the jump-off!
We had a quick chat with Jaimie after her big win:
HQP: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you started riding?
Jaimie: I am very athletic and love jumping my ponies. Sometimes, I jump on my feet with my hobby horses.
During COVID-19, I all of a sudden asked my mom if I could ride, and I am now 11, turning 12 on August 22nd. That means I started riding when I was eight or nine.
HQP: Can you tell us about all the ponies you get to compete with?
Jaimie: So, Scooby is a very positive pony and a confidence builder; he has so much scope and a big stride. He can be very strong and hard to hold in short striding distances.
Joey is a pretty complicated pony; you have to get the right striding on him as he cannot help you out, especially in 1.10m, but he is very sweet, like Scooby.
Pikachu has a tiny stride and is also a confidence builder, but she is tiny and very different from all my other ponies as they have a big stride. Joey and Pikachu are seven, turning eight, and Scooby is 23, turning 24. Joey and Scooby jump 1.10m, and Pikachu jumps 1m.
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Megan Wright
HQP: Congratulations on your PR Champs win! Can you tell us about the competition, the courses, and the jump-off?
Jaimie: The competition was hard; the courses were tricky, and the jumpoff was also tricky with some hard turnbacks and fast riders.
HQP: What are your goals with your ponies?
Jaimie: My goal with my ponies is to try to win the Derby on them
HQP: What are your long-term riding goals?
Jaimie: My long-term goal is to become a champion just like my mom, Nicola Sime, but without some of the time faults.
HQP: What is the one thing your coach says to you more than anything else?
Jaimie: My coach (mom) tells me always to have fun and put my leg on!
HQP: And lastly, If you could ride and compete with any pony/horse in South Africa, which would it be, and why?
Jaimie: Scooby. He’s such a legend. He’s sweet; he’s fast; he helps me out sometimes; and he’s beautiful. I just love him, and he’s mine. I feel like I’m flying when he jumps.
HQP: Well, congratulations, and we’re sure we’ll see some more big wins from you in the future!
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
We also took the opportunity to talk to Jaimie’s mom, top SA showjumper, coach and owner of Sunny Park Stables, Nicola Sime-Riley.
HQP: Nicola, as a top rider and coach of several SA Pony and Junior Champions, what are some key things you teach all your young riders and want them to know and implement in their riding?
Nicola: First and foremost - why do we do this? Because we love itribbons are just a bonus. Then I teach them that time in the saddle and in the ring develops riding skills, but they also have to be off their horses, putting in the yard time. Next, I remind them that balance and feeling are very important and that these come with saddle time. Finally, I teach them to have respect.
HQP: How do you pair young riders with the right horse/pony?
Nicola: I have worked with riders and horses for years, so I guess it is intuition. Some riders pick up the sport quicker than others, which is like all sports, I guess, so we can get them onto the horses with some spice (those are normally your top horses). Having said that, if I find a horse with potential, I always put the rider on; if I think it will work once I’ve seen them together, I do the match. There are a few bumps along the way at times, but generally, it ‘works out’ the way I think it will.
Photography | Kayeanp Photography
HQP:
Nicola: takes riders with Big Match Temperament (BMT) to keep it together.
HQP: Having produced a lot of top ponies on the SA circuit, what characteristics or traits do you look for in young ponies, and what is important in their training to ensure they reach their potential?
Nicola: It’s hard to say because, again, it’s down to a bit of intuition and a lot of experience and hard work from everyone involved. I look for scope and attitude; the rest generally happens. Ponies are different to horses. They’re a little more forgiving, and in my opinion, I think having the small kids on top makes it easier for them. Having said that, it’s always trial and error with each individual, and I try to help them be the best they can be; not everything works for each pony, so I try to give them a work schedule to suit them.
Photography | Megan Wright
Divan Bosman and Cornerstone’s Midgard Zhakiro
Our 2024 Junior Open Individual Showjumping Champions
With 24 starters, made up of the best of the best from around the country, the 1.35m Championship Class always promised to be an exciting one. With five horses entering the jump-off on double-clears after two supercompetitive rounds, the pressure on the combinations never let up.
Divan Bosman and Cornerstone’s Midgard Zhakiro were second last to go and put in an assured and ultra-speedy performance that proved unbeatable. Taking this title in Divan’s last year as a Junior continues the fairytale that Divan and Zhak have told over the past few years. Congratulations, Divan! This was a very well-deserved win!
HQ Pony had a quick catch-up with Divan following his victory!
HQP: Divan, you and Zhak have been in incredible form for some time now and are consistently competitive…Could you tell us how your SA Champs show started and how the warm-up classes went? Divan: My show started calmly, and I was very calm. In my first class, I just went for a nice, easy round with a clear, and that's what I did. I just went for the clear and got a third out of it. I was more competitive in my second class and unfortunately had one pole down, but it was still amazing, and I knew I was ready for the Champs Class.
Photography | Megan Wright
HQP: Super! Well, it was a cracking Championship Class. Can you talk us through it from your perspective?
Divan: In Round One, Zhakiro was a bit hyped up, but I just went with him and was going for a clear, of course, but I also had to pay attention to the time, so I still focused on turns and went a bit tighter around them but kept them smooth.
In Round Two, I knew time was on the line, and luckily, Zhakiro is already a fast horse, but I took my turns even tighter and just went smoothly around the course, knowing I had to clear for a jump-off. I kept calm and focused at every single jump.
Photography | Megan Wright
went in a bit stressed, but I knew if I stayed focused and calm, I could do this. I went to jump one nice and easy, and after jump one, I opened up a bit and just kept on going but tried keeping my turns nice and smooth because that's what helps with getting a faster time, and I needed it. I took a super short turn to jump number two as I know Zhakiro can do it, and to the combination, I was steadying a bit, keeping him on his hind. I opened up a bit to the white oxer and cleared it nicely. I landed a bit far, though, so I went faster around, making it as smooth as possible. I took a nice line to the last jump and came in on a perfect distance, and that’s how it was. It was amazing, and I'm so proud.
Photography | Megan Wright
I will only get nervous before the show, but normally, it goes away at
Divan: I’m going to jump the 1.40m on Zhak now and hopefully get him to the 1.50m, but my goal is to win some big titles on him and the Grand Prix.
HQP: What ‘big’ SA title would you like to win the most?
Divan: I would like to win the ‘big’ SA Adult Derby
Photography | Megan Wright
HQP: And what about the rest of the horses in your string? Divan: So I have:
Nobello TiJi St: He is ten going on 11. We are going up to 1.40m and 1.50m with him now and want to prep to be ready for the big Derby this year.
Callaho Balvenie: She is seven going on eight years old. She is currently back to the 1.20m. I jumped her in the 1.20m at Champs; it was her first show back after injury. She went so well. I will work her back up to the 1.30m and 1.35m now when we get back.
Callaho Carmen. She is six going on seven years old. For the rest of this year, we will focus on the 1.10m and 1.20m classes, as she is my small feisty mare.
Callaho Bolanne. She is eight going on nine years old. We are just keeping her calm as she is very sensitive. I am not competing with her now, but I hope to compete with her soon.
HQP: What is the best piece of advice that you have ever been given? Divan: That you should never give up on a dream no matter how big it is and that you should just keep working hard for what you want.
HQP: Now that’s a winning attitude! We wish you all the best!
Photography | Megan Wright
Future stars
The Neill siblings and their outing to Youth Champs
It is said that ‘some people are just born with horses in their blood’, and when it comes to the Neills, it is clear their horsey blood extends through the generations. Sarah and Oliver Neill have certainly inherited their parents’ talent. We had a quick catch-up with the pair after their super successful SA Youth Champs:
Sarah Neill
HQP: Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
Sarah: I am seven years old. I started riding when I was 18 months old, and I do dressage, equitation and jumping. My favourite is jumping, especially when I can go fast in a jump-off!
HQP: Can you tell us about your ponies?
Sarah: I have two ponies - FEC Raven and Peppa Fire. We got Raven in December 2023, and he does a bit of everything! We did dressage and 60cm jumping at Youth Champs, and we have also done quite a few equitation shows together this year. FEC Raven is a 7-year-old Welsh X. He has a very nice canter and a ‘puffy’ neck - he is very cute, but he can be cheeky sometimes when he’s fresh!
DID YOU KNOW?
Mom, Cathryn, was crowned SA Adult Champion in 2018, while dad, Shaun, has claimed the title a fantastic four times!
Photography | Megan Wright
Peppa Fire, aka ‘Fifi’, is my new ride. We only got him three months agohe is a 17/18-year-old cross-breed pony. Fifi is grumpy in the stable, but he is an angel in the arena! He loves to go fast, and he also has a very nice canter. We jumped 60cm at Youth Champs and will be jumping 70cm at our next show.
HQP: Can you tell us about how your SA Youth Champs went? Sarah: I had so much fun at Youth Champs, and my ponies were amazing! Raven did two dressage tests, and we scored 60% and 63%, which I was very happy with! In the jumping, my ponies were on fire! Raven was part of the winning 60cm Gauteng team, jumping a super double clear for the team and coming 5th overall in the Championship. Peppa Fire bagged some nice prizes during the show, but then we ended on a high when he won the 60cm SA Championship! I am so proud of him - we went so fast in the jump-off!
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Megan Wright
HQP:
Sarah:
When I am big, I want to win the Philip Smith Memorial Trophy!
HQP: Who is your coach, and what do you like about them?
Sarah: My riding career started with Santjie Odgers from Penbritte; she is amazing. She makes me so brave and has given me so many tools for my riding! Recently I have started having equitation and flatwork lessons with Joanne van Achterbergh and Kelly Slater from Kincardine. I LOVE Jo’s lessons; she makes them fun and teaches me something new every week. Kelly makes me laugh even though dressage can be boring, and she also teaches me using stories so that I can remember the dressage movements more easily. I also love Kelly because she brings me jelly tots!
Photography | Megan Wright
Oliver Neill
HQP: Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
Oliver: I am nine years old. I started riding when I was three but quit riding when I was five to start MotoX racing and go-karting. In 2022, I was lucky enough to ride my cousin Emily’s pony, Twinkles, which is when the riding bug bit again, and I haven’t looked back! I compete in jumping and equitation, and jumping is definitely my favourite!
HQP: Can you tell us about your ponies?
Oliver: I have two ponies - Cornerstone’s Starlight and My Irish Boy, aka ‘Laddie’.
We bought Starlight from Anthon Hoek as a green five-year-old last August; she is a very talented, sassy, young pony. She hasn’t always been easy, but she is so brave, and she is teaching me a LOT about producing a pony and about how to be patient with a young pony/horse. Starlight is jumping in the 90cm classes, and she has also done some equitation with me this year.
Photography | Megan Wright
Photography | Megan Wright
My Irish Boy is owned by Jade Anderson and I am very lucky to lease him from Jade. Laddie is a 20-year-old Connemara X pony from Ireland. I started riding Laddie in May last year; he is a real-life unicorn! Laddie can be cheeky, but I feel like he will do anything for me; I trust him with my everything, and he just LOVES to be in the arena. Laddie loves to win, and sometimes, it feels like he knows the course better than me! We started in the 70cm classes last year in May, and this year, we are competing in the 1m classes, ready to try our first 1.10m, hopefully soon.
I am incredibly lucky to ride Laddie, and every day on him is my favourite day.
HQP: And you had a super SA Youth Champs show! Can you tell us about it?
Oliver: Starlight had some super rounds, but also had lots of lessons to teach me! I lost my course on day one and had a bad stride, and got jumped out of the saddle on another day, but we fought back and had a super double clear in the 90cm Champs to end in eighth place.
Photography | Megan Wright
Laddie was incredible at Youth Champs; he started with a 4th on the first day, a win on the second day and then the cherry on top, he won the 1m SA Youth Champs Class on the final day. He loved every round of this show; I think the Shongweni arena must be one of his favourites! We also competed in the novice equitation, where we took home individual 4th and Team Gold for Gauteng.
Photography | Megan Wright
HQP: Well done! And what are your short-term and long-term riding goals?
Oliver: I would love to do 1.10m soon; I dream of jumping the 1.10m Derby on Laddie as he is an incredible Derby pony. My long-term goals are to win the World Cup series one day and to ride overseas. I would love to one day win the FEI Gold Tour and get to ride for South Africa.
HQP: And who is your coach? What do you like about them? Oliver: I also started my career with Santjie Odgers from Penbritte, and she has taught me how to fight back when things go wrong, as well as to be brave and to love my riding. When I got Laddie, I started lessons with Jo van Achterbergh from Kincardine. Mondays are my lesson day with Jo, and they are my favourite days! Jo is so kind, and she teaches me to ride correctly and to never give up. I have learnt so much from both of these coaches over the past year.
Photography | Megan Wright
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