Sporting Horse Magazine Dec 2015 by SilverMane Media

Issue 25 SPORTING HORSE

SPORTING HORSE Issue 25

Issue 25 SPORTING HORSE

CONTENTS REGULARS 4 4 8 56

60 93

Letter from the Editor Advertisers Cover story: Jeanne Engela Out of the Ordinary for certain Rider Profile: Shannon Smith Yvonne Bolton Horse Profile: Royal Feeds Vanya W Yvonne Bolton Subscription Page

THE TEAM

Johan Blom Editor

Pieter Hugo Managing Director

Marguerite le Roux Senior Designer

Marie Chin Advertising Executive

LIFESTYLE 18 34 36

Equestrian Essentials Lifestyle Essentials Tack & Togs Fashion File

THIS ISSUE

14 20 26 30 42 48

65 70 76 80 84 88 90

My Impressions of the Galencia SA Derby 2015 Anne-Marie Esslinger SA Warmblood First Acceptance Stallion inspections Frances Cheboub Mark White Nissan Super League Equitation Yvonne Bolton Polo With a Purpose Liesl King Callaho Rinaldo - More than just a pretty face Staff Writer The FPSSA National Show 2015 Kate Baynes Namibian Warmblood Studs Part 3 Staff Writer Wind Drinker The Arabian Sean Rees-Gibbs A Chestnut Mare named Champion Liesl King Equidome- A World Class Equestrian Facility Yvonne Bolton and Sharlene Venter 2015 Polo International Horse Trials Sarah Arnot The Selleria Equipe Maple Ridge FEI World Cup Qualifier Yvonne Bolton Back-To-Back Reem Acra double for Ferrer-Salat Louise Parkes Awesome Ahlmann steals the Longines limelight at Stuttgart Louise Parkes

Gasnat Jaffer Office Manager

Nikki Kellogg USA Sales Executive

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

DESIGN: Marguerite le Roux mleroux@silvermane.co.za

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

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

www.silver mane .co.za COVER

Tack ‘N Togs Cover Photo: H2 Photography

PHOTOGRAPHERS H2 Photography,Tracy Robertson, Diana Bloemendal, DN Photography, Equine Sport Photography, FEI Photographer,T&B Images, StockImagesServices.com/FEI, Martin de Kock, Dressage Africa, Lana van Heerden, Charisma Photography, Shane Rorke, Louis Heemstra, Kobus Visser, Krizelda Carelse Photography

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

SPORTING HORSE Issue 25

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Issue 25 SPORTING HORSE

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

elcome to the December Edition of Sporting Horse Magazine. With 2015 drawing to a rapid close, it is a natural time to look back and reflect on the past year. We covered so many interesting events in 2015 that it is impossible to single out just one. Well done to everyone involved in the planning and putting together of these equestrian events during 2015. In what are still trying financial times, it is great to see the level of commitment that exists for showing off what we are all so passionate about. Sporting Horse Magazine has reached a magical 500 000 online followers in 2015 and we are already well on our way to the next target, so if you have not done so, look us up online and get your Sporting Horse fix on a daily basis. So if you are slowing down for year -end or looking forward to spending all those extra hours with your equine partners, I hope you will find something of interest within the pages following. Sarah Arnot takes a look at the Polo International Horse Trials on page 84, a three day event that is growing in popularity every year. Anne-Marie Esslinger shares with us her impressions of the magnificent Galencia South Africa Derby on page 14, the 2015 event did not let us down. The next in our instalments on Namibian Warmblood Breeders on page 65. Frances Cheboub takes a look at First Acceptance Stallions on page 20. There is so much more, from Polo to Champion Polo Ponies, World Cup Qualifiers, Rider and Horse profiles and a look at the latest European Show Jumping and Dressage news.

From me and the staff at Sporting Horse Magazine, we hope you have a restful holiday season. If you are travelling please do so safely. We would like to invite you to share with us your holiday equine snapshots. If you went on horseback safari or got to stretch your equestrian halfâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s legs on the beach or just hacked out to your favourite spot, please e-mail me your equestrian holiday experience snapshots, johan@silvermane.co.za or tag it to our Instagram feed at #sportinghorsemagazine. We will publish the best ones early in the 2016. See you around the arena.

Johan Blom

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ADVERTISERS 19 12 7 68 OBC IBC 24 52 55 28 54 13 FC 63 45 IFC 25 35 93 83 46 75 41 69 6 3 74 51 5 64

Alzu Feeds Bartholomeus Klip Brother BullsPort - The Horse Stud Callaho Stud Cipla Cordova Kwazimodo Doorndraai Friesian Stud Equifeeds Equifox Equine Group Equipage Investec Jeanne Engela Jason Phillips Kuda Insurance Manor DĂ&#x201C;r Mark White Nissan Midfeeds Millsleigh Stud Painted Appaloosa Sport Horse Stud Pela Graca Stud Premier Equestrian Supplies Riders Saddlery SkyRoo Stud Steenberg Steyn City T&B Images V-tech Western Shoppe Zonjati Stud

Copyright for all original published material is vested in SilverMane Media and may be reproduced only with the permission of the Editor. All opinions expressed in the articles appearing in SilverMane Media are those of the authors and are not necessarily subscribed to by the editorial staff of SilverMane Media. Authors of articles are compelled to acknowledge all sources of information (if any) used in the compiling of articles and are therefore liable for copyright transgressions. SilverMane Media accepts no responsibility for claims made in the advertisements and will not be held liable for any damage resulting from the use of any of the information published in SilverMane Media.

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SPORTING HORSE Issue 25

Issue 25 SPORTING HORSE

Photo Credit T&B Images

COVER STORY

Jeanne Engela Out of the Ordinary for certain

At only 24 years of age, Jeanne is well accomplished in both her career and professional show jumping. Working full time as a Business Analyst at Investec Private Bank, she spends roughly three hours every day with her two handsome horses, Investec Chanel vd Zeshoek and Investec Inferno. Having moved from Cape Town to Johannesburg seven years ago to pursue her show jumping career, Jeanne puts her success down to hard work, determination and a great support network. 10

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By Caroline Malan of the PR Machine

e caught up with her to find out what drives her, and the constant juggling act that is life as a professional athlete and corporate go-getter.

Jeanne Engela is a woman on a mission and someone who relishes life and the opportunities that it brings. She is a show jumper who knows what she wants and is prepared to put in the effort to achieve her goals, which includes her recent win at the Burlington Cup in November. Jeanne has won other prestigious South African titles such as the Presidents Cup and the FEI World Cup Qualifier series, qualifying her for the World Equestrian games. She has competed in the SA Derby twice and placed 5th and 7th respectively. “I am very happy with what I have achieved to date. I never had stringent plans around where life would take me, but I did have certain milestones that I achieved like getting a degree and getting a job (which I suppose are formalities). I’ve been asked what I would do if I wasn’t a rider and how

COVER STORY

Photo Credit T&B Images

Issue 25 SPORTING HORSE

COVER STORY

I would fill my spare time; the answer I give is that I would most likely take on something almost as demanding as show jumping – or focus my energy on something inventive or entrepreneurial. The reason I say almost as demanding is because as much as I love being busy, a little more free time for friends and family wouldn’t go a miss.” Jeanne describes her ideal show jumper as a horse with blood, who takes you to the fence yet is sensitive and of a fair size. “I like a horse who goes with his head up, so not on the forehand, and who lands with his head up (not too much bascule). The horse needs to have BMT and be game for anything with a ‘can do’ attitude. I enjoy a horse who grows in the presence of big crowds.” In terms of the growth of the sport Jeanne says that the field is bigger than ever and that the standard of horse and rider is increasing exponentially, “We are seeing more and more quality, scopey horses in the big classes and lots of our riders are taking opportunities to train overseas with the likes of Rob Hoekstra. We also attend local clinics so knowledge of the sport is spreading, which is great and hopefully more investment into the sport will come as a result. I think it is fantastic that the competition is getting stronger and stronger. It makes it more rewarding when you win and it challenges and pushes us to compete on an international standard. The tracks that our local and international course builders are building are also getting bigger and more technical, and

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more of our horses and riders rise to the occasion each time - so slowly but surely we are aligning our standards with that of the rest of the world.” Jeanne is the only Investec sponsored showjumper and Ryan Tholet, Head of Investec Private Banking South Africa says that Jeanne is a perfect fit for the brand. “At Investec, we are extremely proud to be able to sponsor a rider of the calibre of Jeanne. The determination, preparation and talent she demonstrates on the sports field is a direct reflection of our own experience of her in the work environment. Investec always strives to be out of the ordinary in everything we do – distinctive performance, never-say-die attitude and always driven to be class-leading… these are the attributes we value and that we look for in our associations, sponsorships and partnerships. We thank Jeanne for the opportunity to partner with us and represent our people, our clients and our brand so phenomenally to date.” For young riders looking to achieve similar goals, Jeanne advises that the most important lesson she’s learnt from riding is to be focused and tuned into your horse, “Don’t worry about what is going on around you. Show jumping becomes dangerous when you lose focus while on track. Horses are incredible animals – they are patient, willing and brave – and deserve your respect in return for them to excel. The biggest misconception about show jumping is that the horse does all the work and the rider just steers. People

COVER STORY

Photo Credit T&B Images

don’t realise that horse riding is exercise for both the rider and the horse. Furthermore, they don’t understand the technicality of the sport and how much the rider has to think about. That’s why I say that the most important lesson that I have learnt in riding is the level of focus that is needed. Decisions need to be made faster than you can consciously make them and for this to happen successfully it requires a different level of focus.” Jeanne’s coach, the ever accomplished Dominey Alexander of Cellehof Stud, smiles as we ask for his thoughts on his pupil, “Jeanne is a pleasure to coach. She has amazing bigmatch temperament, which enables her to perform under huge pressure. She has great timing and feel and is an absolute true champion.” Jeanne is the first to speak of the amazing support she has received on her journey to success, “Firstly, I attribute my success to my small horse with a HUGE heart, Investec Chanel vd Zeshoek. She gives me everything she has on competition days, and more than that I cannot ask for. I also attribute my success to my generous and supportive sponsor - Investec Private Bank. They have been truly amazing for my show jumping and I can’t thank them enough. Then my mom and dad for their continuous love and support, they always encourage me to ride my best and grow and develop as a rider. My trainer, Dominey, who has put many long hours of

valuable time, energy and knowledge into my horses and myself over the years and fills us with confidence before every event. And last but not least, my groom, Lyton Mbisi, who is not only my groom but also my manager. He has wise words for me every day and he takes such good care of my horses. With riding as well as having a full time job I really would not be able to do it without him. “I am driven by the amazing things that fill my days and an excitement for the future. I have an amazing job and the team of people that I work with are vibrant, energetic and inspiring and I love being surrounded by them each day. I then get to ride my horses, which is always a treat. I love every moment that I spend with my horses - they are like my kids. I ride at an awesome yard - Manor D’Or - where I am also surrounded by fantastic people. All in all I get so much joy from everything that I have chosen to occupy my life. I try every day to add value in what I do because that really fuels my self-fulfilment. I am the kind of person that wants to achieve something each day, at work and with my horses, even if it is something small because it energises me to tackle the next challenge and grow as a person. I am a big thinker and a big believer, so my longer-term dreams and aspirations drive me as well.” Well, from where we’re sitting, this is only the start of Jeanne’s journey and we expect to see many more accomplishments. We wish you well for 2016 Jeanne, and have no doubt that you will continue to set a sterling example to all the up-andcoming competitors.

Issue 25 SPORTING HORSE

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Issue 25 SPORTING HORSE

Anne- Marie Esslinger (in red jacket, centre) ﬂanked by Gail Foxcroft on right and Sonia Kroon on left Front row: L to R- Clem dos Santos from KPC, Ernie Hayward (the first ever Derby winner) ,the Galencia Team and Gerrie du Toit in checked shirt, proud breeder of Alzu Oregon

MY IMPRESSIONS OF THE GALENCIA SA DERBY 2015

he SA Derby is one of the most prestigious shows on our annual jumping calendar, and the main event is one that most riders aspire to participate in and do well in. The blend of cross country feel and stadium jumping together with the stamina and skill required, attracts a large number of spectators to the live competition each year and thus attracts better sponsorship than most other competitions. For the third year Kyalami Park Club welcomed Galencia Properties as sponsors for the SA Derby and offered big prize money to the winner of the main competition, increased by a generous amount donated by FNB E wallet and Clem dos Santos. Some 39 riders and their mounts took part in the qualifying classes, hoping to secure their spot in the final eligible 24 start positions for the big Derby. Course designer, Kate Launder, did her best to introduce the forthcoming challenges in the warm up competitions, which were headed by the same combinations every time, namely Shannon Smith with Royal Feeds Vanya W , last year’s winner of both the Young Rider Derby and the Mini Derby, joined by Govett Triggoll and C Ultra, and Lisa Williams with Discovery Campbell – these 3 combinations filled the first 16

SPORTING HORSE Issue 25

By Anne-Marie Esslinger | Photos by T&B Images 3 spots in the same order of the first 2 qualifying competitions, and didn’t need to take part in the 3rd qualifier. Most other riders did…despite considerable heat and little rain, KPC had the ground and grass in the main arena in excellent condition…the property looked a picture and the horses performed well. All riders put in extra fitness work in preparation for this event, where qualification itself is an exhausting procedure, especially for the older horses, who usually excel at Derby once they’ve been around the track once or twice before. This year the warning for horses planning to go to Cape Town at the end of the season for the 2 World Cup Qualifier events to have their AHS vaccines earlier than usual, put a spanner in the works for fitness training for some riders, including myself. Usually September is the month for more gallop and hill work in an interval training programme, as well as the practise over Derby type fences. With all my horses having their 2nd AHS vaccine straight after the Revil Stables WCQ, I had to slow down in week 2, where normally I’d be picking up the work – this negatively impacted on my older horse, Alessio, who tired half way around the Derby track, and was clearly not fit enough.

Happy lap of honour

Issue 25 SPORTING HORSE

Alzu Oregon going down the bank

My other horse, Alzu Oregon, keeps very fit naturally, running around in his paddock, and having a lot of natural stamina. Since we’ve been upgrading our “Derby” paddock at Burlington stables this year, our own facilities were not yet good enough to practise in much, so my horses went to Bryce McCall’s yard just once, for a Derby warm up. As we do every year, students riding at the show accompany David and I, and we do the same preparation together.

Gail Foxcroft on Equifox JFK who came 2nd

Oregon has had 18 great months in the 1,50m division, I felt he was a bit underprepared in Derby mileage this year.. I’ve always done a lot of “baby” warm up with him on the Derby fences, because he is so careful, he tends to overjump the scary fences…

My 2 wonderful horses went so well in the qualification classes, I knew Alessio didn’t need to compete the 3rd qualifier and left him at home. Oregon had not been feeling the heat and needed more Derby practise, my coach, Dominey felt, so I took him Both my horses have been around the big Derby once before, to the show. What a shock when Oregon was slightly lame in Alessio 3 years ago with 8 penalties to finish 4th (as luck would the practise paddock when I got on to warm him up for the have it Alessio got injured on the KPC grounds 2 years ago, class – he’s never been lame, and had felt 100% the day before. straight after winning the first class, and then was injured at home When I trotted him in hand an hour after I scratched him from a month before the Derby last year!), and Oregon last year, also the competition, wondering if we’d still qualify, he looked perfect. with 8 penalties and just outside the money. This was my 4th Nonetheless I took him past the vet who couldn’t find anything foray in the big Derby at KPC, with a round on Alzu Oarsman 5 wrong in hand or under saddle. I was instructed to poultice the or 6 years ago being my ‘come back” round after more than 15 horse and not jump him the next day. years of not having a Derby ride – previously I’d ridden the SA Derby at Inanda 4 times, 3 times on Cognac (1987/1988/1989), a So home we went, with Oregon’s feed cut and a half hour in lovely TB gelding for a 4th, a win and a poor performance, as well the walker on Saturday only. Since I was already disappointed as another TB, Esplanade(1994) once. that 2 of my students, Cinzia Pasteris, and Laurence Mowatt, hadn’t qualified, I was starting to think that if Oregon wasn’t Derby has always been my favourite competition of the year, and fit to compete, then Cinzia might sneak in, being just 2 places my first finish of the Derby way back in 1987 with 16 penalties for out on the qualification list. Chatan Hendriks, just 1 out, was a 4th prize, remains my personal highlight in my riding career…. obviously hoping to get in! But on Sunday morning when I This year was my 8th start in the Derby and I thought that, if showed my horse in hand and under saddle to the vet, he Alessio was fit enough, he had a good chance…. Although Alzu trotted out perfectly and flexed well too….so my groom 18

SPORTING HORSE Issue 25

Alzu Oregon clearing fence no. 11

Paulos plaited Oregon quickly and I set off for the show. My optimistic side told me to take 2 grooms, both in case I needed help in the warm up arena whilst someone was holding my other horse, and in case I won the competition and my horse needed a groom for dope testing procedures. With both my horses not having competed in all 3 qualifiers I qualified lower down on the list than their performances had warranted, and Oregon was 7th in. I’d already decided that if he felt bad, or had a couple of rails down, I’d retire and focus on Alessio. But with the bigger grass warm up and less food for the previous 48 hours Oregon was calmer than he usually is in the practise paddock, and he felt great. When we walked the track we thought fences 1 to 3 looked friendly, but nothing else did…the course plan Kate sent me after the competition confirmed that several fences were bigger than last year with the wall at 1,67m and the oxers at nos. 5 and 11 at 1,55m x 1,60m wide, whilst the stile was 1,63m and the final rustic a whopping 1,55m in front, 1,58m at the back and 1,80m wide – Olympic size obstacles!!!

planks after too big a jump off the big bank, my first thought was “oh sh***t, I’m going to have to go like the clappers in a hectic jump off”! However further clears didn’t materialise, although a number of riders had beautifully smooth rounds. Gail Foxcroft had a superb round with an unlucky ride at the water for just 4 penalties (finishing 2nd), Sonia Kroon had only 1 down and 2 time penalties (to finish 3rd), and a number of riders finished with 8 penalties. I was already warming up for a potential jump off when Lisa Williams did her round with the consistent Campbell, and got off to watch my student, Shannon, as top qualifier, do her round….. whilst I really wanted her to do well, I was hoping I wasn’t going to have to jump off against her, because they’re a tough combination to beat against the clock!

Clearly it was Oregon and my day… because Royal Feeds Vanya W jumped a superb round, but had 2 big oxers down, leaving us as the only clear, just as in 1988, when I won on Cognac with the only clear after several years of no clear rounds – the classic Derby result, and very thrilling….huge thanks to my coach, Dominey Alexander, to Galencia, for sponsoring this show, to FNB and Clem dos Santos for making the prize money even more I didn’t expect lots of clear rounds from the early part of the start attractive, to the KPC team who put on a superb event with top list because most of the form horses were later in qualification, class facilities, and to my wonderful horse, Alzu Oregon, whom I and Derby seldom produces many clears… but after my horse purchased from the Alzu Stud at 3 years old, and have developed delivered a magnificent clear, saving my bacon at the Galencia a great partnership with over the years! Issue 25 SPORTING HORSE

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SPORTING HORSE Issue 25

Issue 25 SPORTING HORSE

Larison. Photo Tracy Robertson

SPORTING HORSE Issue 25

Rivendell Drambuie. Photo Tracy Robertson

SA WARMBLOOD FIRST ACCEPTANCE STALLION INSPECTIONS Stallion licensing is a very emotional issue, especially for those who present their cherished, well kept horses which they clearly hold in high esteem. It is easier than one thinks to be blinded by the hope in a young horse’s pedigree or his character or even an emotional attachment to a history going back to the mare. By Frances Cheboub - Breed Manager SAWHS

o assist members in avoiding disappointment at the Full License level, the SAWHS started a First Acceptance Level Inspection for young stallions.

Stallion presented have to show inspectors in that small window of time while they are being seen, that they are • an excellent physical example of the breed (after all if it does not look like a BMW you can be pretty sure it wont drive like one either) • that they have above average talent, are co operative and like their job. • that they should be an asset to improving the breeding population. The category of First Acceptance Stallion Inspections are for stallions two and half years onwards depending on their maturity, until just past the initial backing stages. Along with the normal conformation and loose movement sections, a free jumping section is included.The pass mark is 70 % where as the Full License is 75%.

Members new to the breeding scene or experienced breeders use this as they find it helpful in getting an outside perspective and feed back. A lot of horses will make excellent competition prospects but do not quite reach the standard wanted for a breeding stallion. Some breeders and owners then decide to geld while those with better marks will hold over and return for Full License. The First Acceptance status expires after four years if the horse is not presented for his Full License. This year in February our inspectors Ryan Andrews and Tarryn Combrink were joined by Mr Arnaud Evian of Group France Elevage (GFE) for the inspection of some interesting young stallions in Gauteng. Cordova Kwazimodo SAW (Kannan / Dageraad), a lovely chestnut owned by Sandra Dewar, whose sire Kannan is presently ranked No.1 in the WBFSH rankings, passed. Luigi di Cantero BWP (Diabeau / Contact vd Heffinck/ Caretino) owned by Lynda Rabie also passed and went on to be the overall winner of the Free Jumping event held the following month at Presidents Cup Issue 25 SPORTING HORSE

Alzu Orissa. Photo T&B Images

Young Warmblood Festival. Diabeau his sire is by Clinton. At Callaho Stud in late March our inspectors along with Mr Rik Van Miert of WBFSH, gave premium First Acceptance status to two young stallions, Callaho Lloyd SAW (Lissabon /Calando) and Larison Holst (Larimar /Calido I). Bolanzo du quinze SF (Quaprice Boimargot Quincey/ Ryon Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Anzek AA) introducing a great French Anglo Arab line and Salvatore Hann (Stolzenberg /Lordanos) also at Callaho were both accepted. Mr Klaus Storebeck of Germany joined the SAW inspectors in June to assess and pass Rivendell Bergerond SAW (Belissimo M/ Wolkentanz I), Rivendell Drambuie SAW (Diamonit out of Trakhener lines of Vatout/ Illuster) both contributing excellent dressage lines and who stand at the beautiful Rivendell Stud in Franschoek Dageraad Fergus SAW (Oscar/ Flemmingh/ Good times) was passed in 2014 continuing the reputation of the Western Cape as a dressage breeding hub for us. Last year the interestingly bred Rivendell Quicksilver SAW (Quintender / Godewind) the last foal from the well known showjumping mare Greta, also passed his First Acceptance and is now owned by Derek Greyling. 24

SPORTING HORSE Issue 25

Cordova Kwazimodo

Alzu Oregon. Photo T&B Images

Today we have Annemarie Esslinger who won the 2015 Derby on Alzu Oregon (dam Alzu Camelot by Carrick out of Nile Game xx mare) and Anya Moller who is competing If at first you don’t succeed with your full Licencing there in 1m50 Open Classes with the SAWH premium inspected is still another way and that is to prove a stallion via his mare Alzu Orissa (dam Alzu Nonchalance, a Nile Game xx/ competition performance or the performance of his progeny. Wachman III mare).These horses are very sought after today. Michelle Hobs rode Alzu Obligation in the 1m50 classes, One of the most well known stallions who had to go Alzu Oarsman is Annemarie Esslingers younger horse in the this long way around to be accepted for full licensing was 1m30’s; A.J Rademeyers’ Alzu Ovation jumped Open classes Optimum van der Wellington (Randal Z/ Furioso). Imported and apparently Ronnie Lawrence has just bought the very from Belgium by Gerrie du Toit of Alzu stud, when he was talented Alzu Optimus from Michelle Hobbs. Optimum is a presented for licensing he was only accepted as an inspected stallion who is blazing a trail with his success’s and is presently horse. He was not given a Full License because he lacked our best example of a top class breeding stallion that had presence, height and he had a turned out front leg, which to prove himself. David Stubbs our founding inspector, was extremely strict As breeds go, the SA Warmblood horse is luckily part of the about. evolution of European warmbloods who today, continue to He only received his Full License after jumping and winning be in demand because they have a modern job description. in what was called A Grade (Open) in those days with his No longer meant for transport, use on the farm or going rider Michelle Hobbs. Gerrie had carefully chosen a selection off to war, the modern warmblood is now sought after for of good Wachmann III, Bambix and Nile Game xx mares to its clear breeding goals in the sports disciplines of Eventing, use with him and they produced horses of size, scope and Dressage and Showjumping. We look forwards to seeing our very few leg problems. His progeny was popular and came South African bred horses go from strength to strength with up through the grades to be jumping along side Optimum all the investment and knowledge that is coming into our breeding base. himself before he retired. OPTIMUM VAN DE WELLINGTON – the long way round

Issue 25 SPORTING HORSE

SPORTING HORSE Issue 25

NISSAN X-TRAIL FROM R327,700

011 840 1960 Fourways Crossing Retail Centre Price includes VAT | Offer valid while stocks last | Nissan recommended retail price R327,700 | Price excludes metallic paint & On The Road costs | Subject to availability | Prices and speciďŹ cations subject to change without prior notiďŹ cation | Pictures are for illustrative purposes only and may differ from the vehicle advertised | Terms and conditions apply | EO&E applies

Nicole Horwood and Mark White Nissan 25 SPORTING HORSE Capital Don Issue Cumarco

Adult Intermediate Victrix Ludorum, Amelia Cockrell and Runner-up, Connor Wilson with Judge, Mirja Horsthemke

THE MARK WHITE NISSAN 2015

EQUITATION SUPER LEAGUE FINALS By Amy Billett and Yvonne Bolton

he Mark White Super League Finals and the Gauteng Provincial Equitation Championships were held at Fourways Riding Centre on the 20th September 2015.

The Equitation Super League’s sponsor for the second year running was Mark White Nissan and to express their appreciation for this tremendous support the Gauteng Equitation Committee presented Mark White himself with a wonderful Trophy to commemorate his outstanding contribution to the Equitation Discipline. On the day, talented athletes competed against each other under the discerning eye of some of South Africa’s Senior Equitation Judges, which included Pat Pohl, who travelled up from the Eastern Cape, along with Dominey Alexander, Gregory Goss and Claire Webb to name just a few. Once again the Gauteng Equitation Committee hosted a fabulous Luncheon for VIP Guests, which included Mark White of Mark White Nissan, Mark Slade, Chairman of the Gauteng 28

SPORTING HORSE Issue 25

Photos by Mark Tolmay

Show Jumping Committee and David Stubbs, who has been an unfailing Ambassador of Equitation in SA for countless years. Along with the VIP Guests, all the Officials, Competitors, Coaches and Parents enjoyed an amazing spread, which was provided by the Committee to express their gratitude for their on-going support of the Discipline. The Gauteng Equitation Committee would also like to thank Midfeeds Tack & Togs and Equestrian Diva Couture for their generous sponsoring of prizes for this event – their donations were very much appreciated. No Show of this magnitude can be organized without the help of the many volunteers who put in hours of work for little or no recognition and to this gallant group of people the Gauteng Equitation Committee extends their most sincere thanks for their tireless input. The Committee would also like to record their gratitude to Fourways Riding Centre, Marion Clough and her Team for all their dedication and generosity towards Equitation over the last several years.

Pony Rider Intermediate Victrix Ludorum, Hanna Boon with Judge, Claire Webb

Junior Intermediate Victrix Ludorum Chane Blom with Instructor, Sigrid Sauter and Runner -up, Victoria Butcher

Gauteng Junior Open Equitation Provincial Champion Zahn-Wanda Bosman with Judges, Dominey Alexander and Gregory Goss

Competitors were invited to show their expertise over some challenging tracks provided by Marion Clough and the results of the day included: Zahn-Wanda Bosman Winner of the Junior Open Gauteng Provincial Equitation Championship Kyla Bruyns Winner of the Mark White Nissan Junior Open Victrix Ludorum and Individual Final Hanna Boon Winner of the Mark White Nissan PR Intermediate Victrix Ludorum

Junior Novice Victrix Ludorum, Kaylin du Toit

Lia Wheeler Winner of the PR Intermediate Gauteng Provincial Equitation Championship Chane Blom Winner of the Mark White Nissan Intermediate Victrix Ludorum Victoria Butcher Winner of the Junior Intermediate Gauteng Provincial Equitation Championship Mark White of Mark White Nissan receiving his Gift of Appreciation of 2015 from Marion Clough and Amy Billett on behalf of the Gauteng Equitation Committee

Mark White and Kyla Bruyns, Junior Open Vixtrix Ludorum

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FLYTEC Fly Tape Equifox Flytec Fly Tape is the tried, tested, and thoroughly proven option for catching flies. Its colour and size, when positioned near the ceiling, make it the preferred surface for flies to rest on... permanently. You won’t believe how effective it is!

Mass Gain Plus

Equifox Mass Gain Plus is a source of natural digestive fat which will not interfere with the actions of the existing feed nutrients. It will add weight to the horse without a ‘heating’ effect and create more efficient use of the existing feed ration. It is a longer lasting energy, especially for horses in intense exercise programmes, where the ration cannot provide for an increasing demand. 10kg lasts 6 weeks 30

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EQUI-Flora Pre- and Probiotic

The delicate balance of microflora within the gut can easily be disturbed by stresses such as competition, travel , illness, deworming, antibiotic therapy and changes in diet. The feeding of PROBIOTICS ensures that whenever the balance of the gut might be disturbed, friendly bacteria are available for recolonisation and to restart the sequence of events which will lead to reestablishing a stable and beneficial microflora.

Pharma-Soothe & Equi-Soothe Our horses’ summer itches are one of those things that often keep us awake listening to the mosquitoes on a hot summer night. Relieving the itches is not only essential for your horses’ comfort, but it’s also a relief for the owner.

to control the itching and scratching caused by insects and mites. Ask us about the options available for a complete mange-control programme.

Equifox Equisoothe for the mornings, and Equifox Pharmasoothe in the evenings, to help reduce the irritation caused by mites and flies, should be an essential part of any strategy

Electrolytes aid in metabolic support during strenuous exercise,

decreasing the risk of muscular fatigue, cramping and dehydration.

Equifox Electrolytes An electrolyte powder of micro-blended mineral salts that assists rehydration and replenishes vital body fluids and electrolytes after strenuous exercise. Reg. No. V18713

Equifox Electrolyte GEL A balanced electrolyte supplement specifically formulated for administration before and during an event. Electrolyte GEL buffers gastric acid and coats the stomach mucosa, thus preventing gastric burn. Reg. No. V20735

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137 Crocus Road, Kyalami

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SPORTING HORSE Issue 25

POLO WITH A PURPOSE

THOUSANDS UNITE IN AID OF BREAST CANCER AWARENESS AND SUPPORT AT SIXTH ANNUAL CINTRON PINK POLO

here are few functions more worthy, more anticipated or more fun to be at than Cintron’s Pink Polo event held recently at the Val de Vie Estate in Paarl. The event, held in aid of breast cancer awareness and research, is now into its sixth year and has become one of the ‘must attend’ functions during Cape Town’s busy summer season. Funds generated through this event go to the non-profit organisation Reach for Recovery and its Ditto project, which assists women with their practical and medical needs in their fight and recovery from the disease. Pink Polo is the perfect blend of elegance, glamour and excitement, all in aid of an exceptionally worthy cause. The Val de Vie Estate’s elegant polo pavilion and matching marquees, exquisitely decorated in keeping with the pink theme, were awash with pink and white roses and pink champagne, while Cape Town’s A list celebrities, also in pink and white, were out in full force to support the worthy cause. And what better

By Liesl King place to spend a beautiful summer’s afternoon, than in the Matador VIP High Tea area(one of the two Matador hospitality areas on offer), watching exciting fast-paced polo than Val de Vie, where the surrounding mountains perfectly frame the lush green polo fields. The day’s proceedings kicked off with a show-stopping fashion show, hosted by international fashion brands Vicomte A. & IKKS, and accompanied by a live performance by celebrity vocalist, Tamara Dey. Then it was time for the eagerly awaited Pink Polo Exhibition Match. Sponsors Cintron, in striking pink shirts, taking on the blue and white team of Julius Baer.The match consisted of four chukkas, played at breath-taking speed in front of a packed audience. The Cintron team were hit by a whirlwind in the first 2 and a half minutes of the match, as Johan du Plooy, Joseph Bronn and Jossi Spilsbury scored three brilliant goals in quick succession. From

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there on it was pretty much “catch up if you can” for Cintron, but Sally Jellis scored two lovely goals, to bring her team back within striking distance. The Julius Baer team however, quickly retaliated with their by now ‘not so secret’ weapon, Johan du Plooy. Du Plooy scored two more goals, bringing the crowd to their feet with his long runs down the field at breakneck speed!

back experience, where they were able to enjoy tantalising food straight from innovative food trucks.

With the setting sun painting the Drakenstein Mountains a spectacular shade of purple, it was time for the Cintron Pink Polo Official After-Party, hosted by Matador Agencies. On offer were luxury VIP lounge pockets, and guests and celebrities boogied the After four chukkas, the nail-biting match ended on a score of night away on the pink and white chequered dance floor to the 5-6 to team Julius Baer, with South African polo captain,Tom de sounds of popular House DJ, Euphonik; South African Indie/Pop Bruin’s pony, Chilli, being named Best Playing Pony of the day. group Flash Republic, featuring vocals by ‘The First Lady of Song’, No polo event is complete without the traditional act of divot Tamara Dey; and Capetonian, world-renowned dance DJ, Dean stomping, and this was no exception as guests put their best foot Fuel. (and shoes) forward and took to the field with luxury car brand, Crossley and Webb to pat down the torn up turf. As the party winds down, Simone de Wet, MD at Val de Vie Events, reflects on another hugely successful day:“Pink Polo was launched All that stomping certainly makes one hungry, and guests were six years ago to act as a vocal platform and to raise awareness treated to a magnificent high tea, consisting of a spread of skilfully about breast cancer in our country and world-wide. It is a day to crafted, never before seen “food-ventions”.This year also saw the celebrate stories of miraculous healing, as well as an opportunity launch of the Pink Food Truck Fair, which offered guests a laid- for those who have lost loved ones to honour the lives they lived.”

SPORTING HORSE Issue 25

Issue 25 SPORTING HORSE

MOËT ICE IMPÉRIAL Moët Ice Impérial is a major step change in champagne. This groundbreaking wine is the world’s first-ever champagne specifically created to be enjoyed on ice, and is made especially for daytime social gatherings in the most sought-after warm weather destinations. Following the overwhelming demand for Moët Ice Impérial last summer season - which was available exclusively around Cape Town’s Atlantic Seaboard in its inaugural year and proved and overwhelming hit - this year holidaymakers in other glamorous South African coastal destinations will too be able to experience Moët Ice Impérial. R8995.95 Available from Norman Goodfellows, Cape Town

LIFESTYLE ESSENTIALS TED BAKER SS15 SWIM COLLECTION

FF2 BANDA™ The FitFlop FF2 BANDA™ collection will be available at leading independent Foot stores and boutiques nationwide.They are priced between R1999 and R2099. For Stockist information please contact (021) 510 4428 or visit www.fitflop.co.za 9

SPORTING HORSE Issue 25

Escape with Ted’s SS15 swimwear collection, a paradise of print, captivating colour and sizzling style. Set sail with Ted’s pretty Distinguished Rose collection, adorned with beautiful blooms shades of mint, pink and lilac. Pleated trims and rose gold hardware are signature finishes, adding a touch of Ted to bikinis and easy-to-wear shorts. Florals are given a bold refresh on the Cascading Floral print, contrasting bright and beautiful pinks and purples with a black base. With its silhouette perfecting panelling and straightened- off leg, the swimsuit is guaranteed to turn heads. Turning up the dial on print and colour, Linear Jewel is an eye- catching collection of ‘70s- inspired treasures dressed- up with a retro motif and gold foil detailing. A daring plunge swimsuit is a standout piece, along with a floor sweeping cover- up complete with side splits and halter neck. For the first time in South Africa,Ted Baker Swimwear will be available in Stuttafords Stores. For stockist information please contact (011)450 1156. r aB io – TRIANGL E C U T OU T BIK INI TOP maTH rY – S T RIP E T WIS TED S WIMSU IT r ae CH il – TRIANGL E C U T OU T PANT

James: Horseware boys Pique Polo shirt. Kiara: Horseware Pique Polo shirt, Horseware denim breeches. Skyra: Horseware Pique Polo shirt, Horseware Classic jodhpurs. Laurence: Horseware men’s Pique Polo shirt, Horseware Torino breeches, Animo Habit belt. Alexis: Horseware Flamboro Polo shirt, Horseware Summer ladies denim breeches, De Niro boots

Kiara: Horseware girls Pique Polo shirt, Horseware denim breeches, KEP Helmet. Fleur #KHS

Laurence: Animo Alfred shirt, Komutekir breeches, Horseware Platinum belt, Animo Xara tie. Shari: Animo Barras shirt, Animo Nonus breeches, De Niro black boots. Kiara: Animo Bisker shirt, Animo Menard breeches, Regent oxblood boots

James: Horseware boy s Pique Polo shirt. Laurence: Horseware men’s Pique Polo shirt, Horseware Torino bre eches, De Niro boots.

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

www.tackntogs.co.za

Issue 25 SPORTING HORSE

Shari Horseware Ireland Luna ﬁtted cotton shirt Horseware Ireland Nina ladies breeches Horseware Ireland Navy/Cherry show socks HP white belt Tack n Togs Aristoteles Horseware Ireland leather Halter and lead

Fashion

Photography by H2 Photography / Clothing supplied by Tack ‘N Togs / Models Shari Navra, Laurence Mowatt, Kiara Burn, Liam Fullard, Shannon Turner,Tack ‘n Togs Aristoteles,Tack ‘n Togs Swan Prince / Location Inanda Country Base

SPORTING HORSE Issue 25

Laurence Horseware Ireland mens competition jacket Pessoa Nova showshirt Pessoa white tie HP white Torino mens breeches Shari Horseware Ireland ladies embellished competition jacket Horseware Ireland Sara competition top Horseware Ireland Nina ladies breeches Shannon Horseware Ireland kids competition jacket Horseware Ireland kids knitted classic jodphurs Tack n Togs Aristoteles Horseware Ireland Amigo Three-In-One sheet Horseware Ireland leather halter and lead

Kiara KEP helmet pink and purple Horseware Ireland girls Pique polo shirt Horseware Ireland denim kids breeches Horseware Ireland navy/pink show socks Regent jodhpur boots Laurence Horseware Ireland denim Pique polo shirt James Horseware Ireland denim Pique polo shirt Swan Prince Horseware Ireland leather halter and lead

James Horseware Ireland denim Pique polo shirt Liam Horseware Ireland denim Pique polo shirt Horseware Ireland canary kids classic jodphurs Luri leather belt Kiara Horseware Ireland mint Pique polo shirt Horseware Ireland denim breeches Horseware Ireland navy/pink socks Luri leather belt

Shannon Horseware Ireland lilac Pique polo shirt Horseware Ireland kids cerise knitted classic jodphurs Horseware Ireland navy/cherry socks All with Breyer toys Horseware Ireland brown Rambo throw/ picnic blanket

Issue 25 SPORTING HORSE

Shari Horseware Ireland Gaby t-shirt Horseware Ireland cherry Nina ladies breeches HP black belt De Niro boots Horseware Ireland Faded denim Alisa tote

Tack n Togs Aristoteles Horseware Ireland leather halter and lead

Shari Horseware Ireland Sara competition shirt Horseware Ireland Nina ladies breeches HP belt

Liam Horseware Ireland cap Horseware Ireland boys Pique polo shirt Horseware Ireland canary kids knitted jodphurs Kiara Horseware Ireland rose girls Pique polo shirt Horseware Ireland denim girls breeches Luri belt Shannon Horseware Ireland light green Pique polo shirt Horseware Ireland cerise kids knitted classic jodphurs

SPORTING HORSE Issue 25

Shari Horseware Ireland navy Luna ďŹ tted cotton mesh shirt HP navy ladies Bella rain jacket Horseware Ireland cherry Nina ladies breeches

Liam Horseware Ireland boys denim Pique shirt Horseware Ireland canary kids knitted classic jodphurs Luri belt Regent jodhpur boots

Issue 25 SPORTING HORSE

CAVALLI CLASS

THE PIPPIN LARGE LEATHER WORKBAG

If you feel that it’s time to get organized, make Radley London’s Pippin range your first port of call.The large Pippin leather workbag is available in various colourways, namely black, brown, duck egg blue as well as teal. R4, 899.95. It will be available at selected Stuttafords stores nationwide.

In the spirit of Roberto Cavalli’s signature sense of style, the Cavalli Class Spring/ Summer 2014 Collection is a celebration of Mediterranean summers filled with fun and excitement. CAVALLI CLASS is available exclusively at D’Oré Sandton City. For further information please contact D’Oré on 011 783-7316 (U73, Sandton City, Sandton Drive, Johannesburg) or visit www.dorefashion.co.za

LIFESTYLE ESSENTIALS DOM PÉRIGNON VINTAGE 2006

Dom Pérignon commitment to vintages is absolute. Each Dom Pérignon is a true act of creation, made from only the best grapes.The champagne’s intensity is based in precision, so inviting, so mysterious. Each Vintage has three Plénitudes, and embodies the total faith in the Power of Creation that is constantly renewed by Chef de Cave Richard Geoffroy. Coupled with a bold sense of playfulness, Dom Pérignon inspires the greatest creators in the world, with this latest limited edition designed by Björk and Chris Cunningham. Available in South Africa from leading liquor merchants nationwide from R1999.95.

SPORTING HORSE Issue 25

Issue 25 SPORTING HORSE

Callaho Rinaldo MORE THAN JUST A PRETTY FACE

Dawn Newman, managing director of Kuda Sport Horse insurance, equine fanatic and owner of Callaho Rinaldo, spends some time with Sporting Horse Magazine at Zenwau Equestrian Centre, just on the outskirts of Cape Town talking about her beautiful 17.1 hand dressage mount, Rinaldo- or Dodo as she lovingly refers to him. Text: Staﬀ Writer | Images: Johan Blom When and where was Callaho Rinaldo purchased? I bought him at the Callaho auction in 2012 Buying a horse at auction can be daunting and exciting, tell us about the day. When I tried Rinaldo before the auction in 2012, it was really just to give myself a treat. Not for one minute did I dream that I would end up owning this magnificent animal. When auction day finally arrived, my good friend, Laura Kotze, said “leave this to me” and set about bidding for Rinaldo so aggressively that I think the rest of the bidders were stunned into silence. And Rinaldo was mine!!! I remember running down the stairs to the stables and finding Rinaldo and just hugging him and crying, not for one minute able to believe that my dream had come true. What was it that attracted you to him? He was incredibly beautiful and moved like a dream, but more than anything else he just had an aura about him that was

SPORTING HORSE Issue 25

almost ethereal in a way. Just calm and gentle and so very kind. Early on in his career, what were the signs you were looking for that would give you a hint of his ability? I think that it was fairly easy to see right from the start that he had the talent to make it as a top dressage horse. It was also confirmed very early on that he had the temperament to match. The big thing for me was whether I would be able to ride him to the extent of his ability. He’s a big horse with big paces and a VERY bouncy trot. But I made up my mind that whatever I had to do was worth it to make a career with this incredible athlete. Who do you train with or who is your teacher or mentor? I have been training with Jaco Fourie for the past five years and he continues to inspire me with every single training session. I have the utmost respect for him, he has ridden to the very highest levels of dressage himself and has also trained

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numerous horses to Grand Prix level. From time to time Jaco hops onto Rinaldo to just get a feel and also to help me deal with any issues that I am having. Laura Kotze is also a great friend of mine and gives me so much advice and just generally keeps me focussed on the things that are important.

•

What does your training regime look like? I school in the arena four times a week, of which one session is just stretching and going “long and low” and I hack out once a week, a nice fast canter around the farm and some fun time playing in the dam.

•

Your most memorable moment so far together? I think this weekend just past, winning the Chairman’s Cup with all my friends and family there to watch and support was a really special moment. And just the incredible feeling that he gave me in the indoor arena late at night, he has big match temperament for sure!!! A few of your career highlights together so far? • WP Lower Novice Dressage Champion in 2012 • SA Dressage Challenge Novice winner in 2013

SPORTING HORSE Issue 25

• •

• • • •

Winner of 6 year old championship at SA Dressage Champs in 2013 Member of winning South African team at Inter Africa Cup in 2014 Winner of the 6 year old championship at Nissan Easter Festival 2014 Adult Grand Showing Champion and Supreme Showing Champion at WP Showing Champs 2014 Member of winning WC Adult dressage team in 2015 Winner of South African Elementary Medium Dressage Championship in 2015 Adult Grand Showing Champion and Supreme Showing Champion at WP Showing Champs 2015 Winner of Chairman’s cup at WP Showing Champs in 2015

What are you plans for the future? Rinaldo is showing great aptitude for piaffe and passage, my aim is to have him competing at Grand Prix level within the next three years. I plan to ride Prix st Georges on him by the end of 2016. But more important than all of that, I hope to continue to produce him as a proud and happy athlete and continue to have the fun with him that I’ve had over the past three years.

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SPORTING HORSE Issue 25

Issue 25 SPORTING HORSE

Octavius van Doorndraai - Supreme Junior in Hand

By Kate Baynes

THE NATIONAL SHOW 2015 full set of results is available on the FPSSA website â&#x20AC;&#x201C; www.fpssa.co.za

ith the increasing popularity of the Friesian Breed in South Africa, the FPSSA National Show provides an ideal opportunity to showcase this phenomenal breed. The FPSSA is the only Friesian Studbook that is affiliated to the Mother Stud book in the Netherlands, the KFPS. This association has ensured that the Friesian breed has kept up with the international breeding standards that are expected by the KFPS. Although the true characteristics of the Friesian will always remain the same, it is important to remain in touch with what the market dictates. With this in mind the KFPS constantly research the breed

SPORTING HORSE Issue 25

and provide criteria and breeding principles that ensure that we continue to breed a world class sport horse that is an interesting prospect to buyers. This year FPSSA National Show, held at Misty Meadows in October, was an example of the quality of horses that are now being bred in South Africa. Orlando van Doorndraai owned and bred by Marlise Botes of Doorndraai Friesian Stud, is an excellent example of this quality. This young Stallion ridden by Jean van Deventer is both the Supreme Champion In Hand and Under Saddle, beating many imported horses.

Orlando van Doorndraai & Jean v Deventer - Supreme Under Saddle

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Sam van Aveleda - Res Supreme Junior In Hand

Titske fan Kolderveen - Res Supreme In Hand Menno & W v Huyssteen - Supreme Dressage Champion

Auke V & Daniel Buntse - Supreme Single Harness

Orlando van Doorndraai - Supreme Senior In Hand

Reinoud fan E Homar - Res Supreme Under Saddle

In keeping with local is “lekker” both the Supreme Champion Junior In Hand - Octavia van Doorndraai and Reserve Supreme Champion In Hand - Sam van Aveleda are locally bred by Doorndraai Friesian Stud and Aveleda Friesian Stud respectively. It is important to not lose sight of how important the importation of horses from the Netherlands has been by many studs over the years. These horses have provided a much needed boost to the Friesian breed, that over the years had not always been bred correctly. Reinoud fan e’ Homar, now owned by Adelprag Friesian Stud and ridden by Chere Burger yet again won the title of Champion KFPS Foalbook Breeding stallion & Reserve Supreme Champion Under Saddle. Wium van Huyssteen

SPORTING HORSE Issue 25

Tjalf 443

with Menno also owned by Adelprag Friesian Stud won Supreme Champion Dressage. Although much smaller this year the harness classes are always exciting to watch. Auke V. owned by Weltevreden Friesian Stud won the Supreme Champion Single Harness. Doorndraai Friesian Stud’s Tjalf 443 delighted the crowds in the long lines with his magnificent movement, crowing him Champion Studbook Stallion. 2015 has been an exciting year for the FPSSA and the KFPS Friesians as we see this beautiful breed competing more and more in both South Africa and internationally. Should you require any information on the breed please do not hesitate to contact the office – office@fpssa.co.za.

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Issue 25 SPORTING HORSE

Orlando van Doorndraai

Owned by Adelprag Friesian Stud

FPSSA National Supreme Champion In-Hand

Sales - Altie Clark 083 299 1356 Owner Marlise Botes 083 263 7800 www.doorndraaistud.co.za

SPORTING HORSE Issue 25

Tjalf 443 ‘Sport’

2014 - Best Breeding Stud in the World as named by the KFPS in NDL

Friso fan S. ‘Sport’

Under Saddle, Brood Mares & Youngstock FOR SALE

Nella Stb Kroon Supreme Champion Under Saddle - FPSSA National Show Issue 25 SPORTING HORSE

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SPORTING HORSE Issue 25

Issue 25 SPORTING HORSE

HORSEPROFILE RIDER PROFILE

SPORTING HORSE Issue 25

Catena. 2015 Polokwane World Cup Qualifier

HORSEPROFILE RIDER PROFILE

Zadkine. 2013 Easter Festival 1.30m Junior Grand Prix

SHANNON SMITH By Yvonne Bolton / Photos by T&B Images

Tell us a little about your younger years – where you started riding and whereabouts? The first time I rode a pony was in Cape Town, when I was 3 years old. My family and I had been to lunch at a place where they had pony rides for the kids. After that first ride I was hooked. I started riding at Riba Stables when I was 3 and had lessons with Renita de Beer, who is now my sponsor. Then my parents moved me to Chinta Park a year or so later and shortly after bought me my first pony. Did your parents support and inﬂuence your interest in equestrian sport? My Mom has always loved horses and rode a bit when she was younger. So I think her love for horses was passed on to me and influenced me to start riding. Both my parents have always been very supportive towards my riding from the start and have encouraged me to pursue it. Do you have any fond memories of special ponies you rode in the children’s classes? My first pony I started competing on was called Forget Me Not. She was a beautiful grey pony, who won many classes for me and taught me a lot. Another special pony I rode and loved was a paint pony called JJ. I had the opportunity to ride him in my last year of pony riders, where he won many classes and was always a lot of fun to ride. My most special pony was Miss Chantilly Lace, who put me on the map and won me many titles and who gave me lot of exposure in the open pony classes. Give us a little insight into how your family came to acquire Chantilly Lace – what were the highlights of those early years on her and did you compete in any teams at that time? My Dad found Tilly while at a conference in the KZN Midlands. She was too small to race and the owners said, if we wanted

her, we could have her. I was 7 years old when I got Tilly, so it was a huge challenge to bring up a young pony at such a young age. Luckily the owner of Chinta Park at the time, Patricia, worked very closely with Tilly and I and helped me with all the basics. At the age of 11, I moved to Barry and Lorette Taylor, where both of them played a huge role in my success with Tilly. Lorette and Barry coached me to my win in the 2008 Children’s Grand Prix at the SA PR Championships, the Benoni Mayoral Grand Prix and Championship 2008, the PR Nations Cup Team and the PR Victor Ludorum in 2008. What were your impressions of your trip to Columbia in 2008, when you represented South Africa at the FEI Children’s International Classic Final? My trip to Columbia was one of the most amazing trips I have ever been able to experience. Representing my country at the Children’s FEI International Final was a dream come true and something I will cherish forever. Going on the trip I was extremely nervous, as I was going without my Trainer and I had never done anything like this before. Luckily, once meeting everyone competing, my family and I became friends with the riders and families from New Zealand, Australia and Germany, who then offered to help me during the week we competed. Once I had drawn my horse I was quite disappointed, as he didn’t look like much and had undergone three colic surgeries in the past few years. However, he turned out to be amazing and we came 2nd overall. I also won the prize for the most Stylish Rider and my horse won the Best Horse of the competition prize. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity. When did you move into the Junior ranks and what Issue 25 SPORTING HORSE

HORSEPROFILE RIDER PROFILE

Catena. Maple Ridge WCQ 2015 1.35m Grand Prix

horse did you progress onto when you moved into this category? During my PR years, I had always had horses which I competed on in the smaller Junior Classes, so that when I was ready to move off ponies I was in the fortunate position to have my points to move into the Junior 1.30m classes straight away.

I think all my Coaches through the years have contributed to my successes in some way. Barry and Lorette made a huge impact on my riding career and taught me so much. I owe all my PR and Junior success to them.

After winning the Turnierstall Hilmar Meyer Show Jumping Series in 2013, tell us a little about your time spent in Germany at Hilmar’s Yard? My time spent in Germany after winning the YR Series was fantastic. I had a really great trip, rode amazing horses and learnt a lot. Hilmar’s Yard is mainly a Dealing Yard, so there were always plenty of horses at different levels and ages to ride.

At present you are at University – which degree are you pursuing and how do you combine your studies along with your busy equestrian schedule?

My current Trainer, Anne-Marie Esslinger, has made the biggest contribution to my riding and recent successes. Anna has In 2009, I moved into Juniors when I was 13 years old and I helped me to grow not only as a rider, but as a person as well. started in the 1.30m classes on LoretteTaylor’s Derby Champion, In the past four years that I have spent with her, I have learnt Greet a Star. Lorette gave him to me to start my Junior career the most I have in my whole riding career. I believe she has on and Greeta really looked after me and gave me a lot of not only improved my riding, but also my horsemanship, which confidence and mileage. I am so grateful to both Lorette and is such a huge factor. Anna has helped make so many of my Barry for the opportunity they gave me with Greeta – he was a biggest dreams come true and I cannot thank her enough for everything she has done for myself and my horses. dream first Junior horse.

Hilmar has always been very generous in the sense that he gives you an opportunity to ride both young horses and Grand Prix horses. I was put on some great horses, which I also got to compete with at Shows. Hilmar allowed me to jump his horse that he jumped in the Hamburg Derby on several occasions and this was an amazing experience and feeling. Which Coaches do you think have contributed enormously to your successes in your show jumping career? 60

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I am currently studying an LLB Law Degree. I am busy with second year and have two more years of studying to complete my degree. It is extremely challenging and time consuming to combine both my riding and the degree and a lot of the time my studies take a back seat, when I am competing in all the big events through the year. It is very hard trying to juggle the two, but I have been managing so far and hopefully will continued to do so for the next few years. I believe you keep your horses at home now – who is in charge of the stable management and does this make it easier to keep them ﬁt? I really enjoy having my horses at home and under my own

2014 Easter Festival Junior 1.30m Grand Prix (picture of Aruga who I bought as a 3 year old and produced up into the 1.30/1.35 classes. Sold him to a junior last year)

control and supervision. It has also taught me a lot and has over the years for which I am truly thankful. brought me much closer to my horses. I am also currently the Ariat Europe Brand Ambassador in My Mom is also very involved in the managing of the horses and South Africa. Together with Western Shoppe and GPA they the stables and I can always rely on her to make sure everything have kitted me out I the best riding apparel from head to toe, is running smoothly. In addition, having my horses at home allows which is a great honour and privilege. A huge thank you to me to decide on their work-out programmes and training and them, as well, for the opportunity to represent and wear world create my own routine, which I enjoy. Keeping my horses fit and class brands. show-ready is always my main concern and goal. Without the support of these important people and businesses Having had an amazingly successful 2015, what are your – none of the above would be possible. equestrian goals for the future? I have had an incredibly successful year with Royal Feeds Vanya Give us a little insight into your involvement with the and Royal Feeds Catena. Next year I would love to win a WCQ Silver Lining Iniative run by Highveld Horse Care Unit? and hopefully jump a clear round in the Derby. I would like to The Silver Lining Initiative involves the training and re-homing of be placed in the big classes throughout the year and also plan on Thoroughbreds that come to the HHCU. Over the past two competing Catena more regularly in the 1.40m classes. years I have had 5 TB’s, who have come to me for training and re-homing and I have successfully managed this with three of My biggest goal would be to compete overseas one day, but that the TB’s so far. will have to wait until my degree has been completed. A huge thank you once again to Royal Feeds, who have funded Tell us a little about your current sponsors? their feed whilst in training. In addition to Wayne Dale, who At the moment I am sponsored by Royal Feeds, Ariat Europe and does their teeth, Shaun Allnut for their shoeing and Northrand Western Shoppe. Clinic and Lauren Morrison for helping with their Veterinary needs. Western Shoppe and Bates Saddles have also kindly Royal Feeds has been a very generous sponsor of my horses donated a saddle. and I for the past three years. I am very grateful for all they have done over the years. Thanks to them, my horses have All credit must go to Joanne Pursey and all at HHCU for been kept in the best shape and health possible and it has ensuring the success of this initiative. Being part of this enterprise shown in their performance over the years. Renita has been has been an amazing experience, which I have enjoyed and especially generous and helpful in many aspects of my riding encourage others to get involved in this initiative. Issue 25 SPORTING HORSE

HORSE PROFILE

ROYAL FEEDS

VANYA W

Shannon Smith interviewed by Yvonne Bolton / Photos by T&B Images

When and where did you ﬁrst view Royal Feeds Vanya W and were you looking for a horse with more talent when you tried her? Barry and Lorette Taylor found her for me, whilst Jade Hooke was riding her for Stan and Leonie van der Burgh. I tried her when she was at a Show at the Burgh Equestrian Centre. We were in the process of looking for a horse that could jump the bigger classes, when Vanya came on the market. I only rode her on that one occasion before purchasing her the next day. She was very different to every other horse I had ridden over the years and she was in a completely different league to what I was used to. Do you haven any idea where she was bred and produced? Stan van der Burgh says she was bred in Holland and that he heard about her through their Agent in Europe.

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Does she come from a bloodline that has produced any other successful jumpers? Vanya’s Sire is the French Bred Stallion, Carnute. He was a very successful International Showjumper, who competed in the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens finishing on only 4 faults. He won many big classes during his career, one being the WC in Geneva. The Sire of Vanya’s Dam was Landgraf, who also sired many Grand Prix and WC winners. What were your ﬁrst impressions having ridden her and what made the family decide to purchase her? Vanya was extremely impressive when I rode her that first time. I jumped her over a huge upright and oxer in the warm up arena at the Show and I was blown away. Thereafter we made our decision to buy her immediately.

HORSE PROFILE

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HORSE PROFILE

You got Vanya in 2011 – give us a little insight into the early years with her and how has the partnership progressed? The first year with Vanya was extremely hard. She was so different to what I was used to that it took a very long time to learn how to ride her. In fact it took a lot of hard work, sweat and tears until it finally came right. Anna played a huge role in making Vanya and I work and I definitely would never be where I am today or have achieved what I have done without Anna. Over the years our partnership has grown and strengthened hugely. We now know one another inside out and I think that has played a massive role in our success. She trusts me and I believe in Vanya more than anything. What sort of personality does she have and how does she react to the Show environment? Vanya is a very kind and gentle mare. She is extremely well mannered and well behaved and always does what is asked of her. She is very level headed and smart too. Vanya loves the show environment and always gives 100% every time we go into the ring.

Tell us about some of your most memorable achievements with this talented mare? Vanya has won many classes over the years for me and some of the most memorable would be: All top horses have some quirks – what are Vanya’s and what • The Junior Grand Prix at the Easter Festival (our first is she like around the yard? big win) Vanya is excessively spooky, which can be quite a challenge, • The SA Young Rider Championship 2013 as she is scared of almost everything and anything. Outrides • The Hilmar Meyer YR Series Winner 2013 are particularly difficult as she is petrified of shadows and • The YR Derby 2014 potholes which doesn’t make our rides out easy. Otherwise • The Mini Derby 1.40m 2014 she has a beautiful and loving nature and is a pleasure to • Placed in our 1st 1.50m Derby work with. • The 1.50m Grand Prix at the Maple Ridge WC 64

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Photo credit Bianca Lueesse

NAMIBIAN WARMBLOODS

Part 3

porting Horse continues with our part three spotlight on Namibian Warmblood studs. The Namibian Warmblood Horse Society currently has 33 member studs throughout Namibia. Some 500 Namibian warmblood mares are registered with the Namibian Stud Breeders Association. The breeding guidelines of the NWHS state that the objective is the breeding of a noble, big-framed, correct and performanceorientated Warmblood horse with elastic and balanced movements, as well as a strong aptitude for jumping. The horse should have a good temperament and should be suitable for all recognised international equestrian disciplines. Every year the NWHS hosts the licensing of horses guided by this breeding objective in order to licence young horses in the different studbooks. Many breeders make use of frozen semen imported from Europe to incorporate successful sires in their breeding programs. Well considered breeding combined with natural raising conditions and professional handling are the foundations of Namibian-bred sport horses.

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Johanna Sauber with Musica

BUELLSPORT – THE HORSE STUD BuellsPort horses are raised and schooled in the beautiful mountainous and rough terrain of the Naukluft area, which grants them strong bones and muscles. Growing up in this natural environment ensures clear minded and well balanced horses. Bred with passion and long-term experience, BuellsPort Warmblood Stud produces high quality sport horses aimed for show jumping and dressage. Imported German bloodlines are prominent in the breeding, such as Graf Top (Hanoverian Stallion of 2011) or Le Primeur (winner of the stallion performance test in 2000). The BuellsPort breeding philosophy is based on the three major key aspects temperament, conformation and correctness. In 1998, after only three years of breeding, BuellsPort owner Johanna Sauber could successfully present her first stallion to the inspection committee, headed by horseman legend David Stubbs. Since then, all fillies presented for license were above average and all breeding mares have an overall average mark of 7.2 or higher. 2004 Johanna presented the winning mare in the 4-years-old class at the Windhoek Agricultural Show and in 2011 she won the mare campionship for licensing. 68

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However, BuellsPort Stud goes beyond awards and prizes. It is an exceptional treatment and training of the horses, schooling them with a lot of time, patience and respect, according to their individual character. From early on the horses are encouraged in their strengths and generally supported to get the best out of them and to make them a reliable and confident partner – in every situation. Johanna has the passion to expand and promote the quality of the horses through understanding what the horse needs at any stage of its training level. This combination of successful breeding and special treatment makes BuellsPort horses as unique as they are. Come and stay with us to experience this uniqueness on your own and feel the pleasure, our horses give us every day. ZONJATI STUD Zonjati stud is now a smaller version of the original Otzonjati, which has always been in the hands of the Voigts family, with a horse stud as part of it. The mares’ pedigrees can be traced back to the first imported warmbloods like Ermanerich or Shagya. One of the first stallions at the stud was Lone Eagle XX, imported from the UK to Kenya, where he won most of his races or was placed.

Consuelo

After the political breakdown in Kenya, he traveled via Cape Town to Namibia. Another stallion to make the stud his home was Boccaccio, a little grey stallion who deserves to be rated as the sire with the highest readability rate. “He had the greatest character and always gave his best no matter who rode him in dressage, eventing or jumping,” says Sitta Voigts, owner of Zonjati Stud.

over and over again that he is just the right match for the southern hemisphere as he improves on all the mares, be they thoroughbreds or the Hanoverian based mares. The G-Line represented by Glückscup or Graveur, is for instance a definite match. Offspring were foal winners, numerous mare licensing winners and runner ups, or turned out to be sport horses like Elapso, Connoisseur, Casta, Coco, Olorosso, Consuela, Conquest, Gaucho, Amaretto, Amazonas just to name a few. Not to forget the young coming up out of Consuelo mares like Bonnieclide.

Then Kronos arrived at Otjozonjati, who was an outstandingly versatile stallion gaining wins and places in dressage, show jumping and was also South West African (now Namibia) eventing champion in 1985. “So we were privileged to use proven stallions since we started our operation in Namibia,” adds Sitta. Elias van te Godselbos, or better known as Elya, joined Zonjati Stud in 2012. At his licensing he was aggregated a 7,5 After an event in Springs, and a meeting with Mr Rogan for movement and a 9 for jumping scope. As son of Utrillo, Asken, she became intrigued with pedigrees, researching he brings the valuable Corrado blood, the internationally everything available then only in books and magazines she admired Heartbreaker as well as Calypso I and Relic XX. could get hands on, before finalizing her wish list for Mr Cord Wassmann to pick her new future stallion. This interesting pedigree compensates not only Consuelo’s blood lines but matches Zonjati Stud mares fantastically. We Consuelo was chosen according to blood compatibility, are convinced he will be of great value on thoroughbred not only with the Zonjati Stud mares, but keeping all the mares too as we have the first very impressive filly out of a good jumping blood in mind that is available in Namibia racehorse mare. The other foals are of high quality, with good and South Africa. Consuelo’s performing offspring prove conformation, good gates, long legs and they just love to jump.

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Wind Drinker

The Arabian

By Sean Rees-Gibbs | Photos by Gabriele Boiselle

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he first Arabians to come to South Africa was in the 17th Century. This was to establish the Cape horse breed. Their decedents were to be exported to Australia, a continent not familiar with the Equine world prior to 1788, but with their ability to handle heat and drought, to survive in wide open and inhospitable places; it was evident that these living conditions were perfectly suited to the robust constitution and strong characteristics embodied by the Arabian horse. By establishing an understanding regarding the history and traditions associated with the Arabian horse, and how it evolved from the past to the present, will enhance your enjoyment of this great breed.

southern winds of the desert ,God created this horse. Arabian horses in all their beauty, with their silky manes, pronounced foreheads, chiseled ears, concave snub nose profile, and quivering nostrils, came to be. Their movement embraces long legs that fly rather than gallop, a short arched back flows and ripples, as their narrow strong hooves joyfully pound the ground. It is this tough yet domestic, feisty yet gentle, proud yet loyal, Arabian horse that plays as hard as it fights, runs kilometers as if dancing, and seems to feed off the wind while showing off its harmonious and sensual curves. In the wake of this “wind drinker” legends are born.

To breed the Arabian Purebred is to go beyond the limits of the rational, to abandon your principles and beliefs, to welcome – wide eyed and filled with wonder – the magic of an eternal mystery.

The Arabian horse encompasses an energy that will feed your soul, as they have a fine connection with the Earth. One has to follow and apply basic principles to allow this energy in. Once you adhere to being true to your being, can this energy enter. Thereafter, nature will guide your being and your instincts will become more prominent.

The Bedouins, who have shared their lives with this wonderful creature for thousands of years, believed that from the

The Arabian horse expresses the influence of instinct, this is what the Arabian horse is about, and as your being and

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instinct comes to life you will begin to learn how to live off this instinct. The understanding regarding the nature of instinct is constantly evolving and has said to have the ability to make one’s life more wholesome in living and appreciating a ‘Life to Love’. There is something so magical and beautiful about Arabian horses that people can’t help but fall in love with the breed. The power of the Arabian horse to teach us by touching our hearts is impactful and inspirational. Some people walk away from their first experience with an Arabian horse with a joyful smile and others want the magic they feel to never end. Such is the power of the Arabian horse, a mythical – having a spiritual significance that goes beyond human understanding - creature that forever captures our hearts. Breeding Arabian horses is a combination of heart, art and science. The heart comprises the passion we hold towards the horse. Breeding requires a passionate dedication towards the maintaining, growth and development of the breed at hand. To be involved with the Arabian horse in any endeavor is a journey involving passion.

The art of breeding lies in the vision we see of our ideal horse. When referring to the science, this indicates gaining an overall knowledge of the breed, and learning the practices pertained to successful breeding. Our story continues with the Arabian horse and their instinctive beauty of being so closely related to and directly connected with nature. This interaction goes back centuries and has been a journey involving the relationship between man and the energies reflected by the Arabian horse. The soul of a horse is captured by this history of the evolvement of man and nature. It is due to this history of living a life with nature, that we are able to become closer to understanding our mission in life and living a ‘Life to Love’. It is the nature of this creature that captivates your heart, allowing for the realization that this nature of the Earth is key to igniting your instincts.There has been many lives lived with horses and ours is yet another. Portraying the real beauty of experiencing this nature is through the heart and soul of these magnificent creatures – The Arabian Horse.

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“The swiftest horses were chestnuts, a colour the Prophet loved. When a chestnut horse flew under the sun he was the wind incarnate.” A translation from Les Chevaux du Sahara et les mœurs du désert - by General Eugène Daumas 1858

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A CHESTNUT MARE NAMED

CHA MPION D Text & Images by Liesl King

South Wind.

aumas, writing about the Drinkers of the Wind, the Arabian horses he encountered while stationed in Algeria, was probably recounting a Bedouin legend according to which the first horse was a chestnut mare created from the

‘When Allah went to create the horse he spoke to the South Wind and said: ‘I want to create an animal out of you. Make yourself dense.’ And the South Wind did, and from this dust Allah created a kamayt-coloured (chestnut) animal.’ – a Bedouin legend For the Arabs horse colours were extremely important and selectively bred for. While chestnuts were valued for their speed, it was bays who were considered “the pearls among horses”for their hardiness, strength and calmness. Through the ages chestnuts just like their human redheaded counterparts have been known to be hot-blooded, sensitive, fiery creatures. Add some female hormones into the mix and one can understand why chestnut mares have a reputation of being difficult. And while not all chestnuts are fiery, it is a reputation that they have been unable to shake.

On a visit to the Val de Vie Estate for a photoshoot recently, I am introduced to my model for the shoot, one of their best polo ponies, Champion. I had heard about Champion even before my arrival. A pony so well known that one of the two polo fields at Val de Vie carries its name and there is even a Champion road on the estate. Imagine my surprise when out of the beautiful stable block is led a tall, rangy chestnut. A chestnut? Champion obediently stands up for inspection and there is no doubt in my mind that I am looking at a thoroughbred.

Ok polo players do favour the speed of the thoroughbred but in general, prefer a slightly smaller horse than the gelding before me, when it comes to maneuverability. So what makes Champion so good? I enquire whether despite his height, is it his speed that makes him so brilliant? A stifled giggle has me worried and as I step sideways to get a better look, I realise that I have just made a fool of myself. For not only is Champion a very tall chestnut thoroughbred, he is in fact a she! So here we have a thoroughbred chestnut mare of all things, excelling at a sport that demands speed, maneuverability, but above all else control and calmness. I needed to know more about this equine paragon. Despite being a thoroughbred,

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Martin Venter and Champion

Champion never saw a racetrack as she was purposefully bred for polo by Richie Kogg in KwaZulu-Natal. Selby Williamson, a previous captain of the SA squad was to be her next owner and he was responsible for most of her training, patiently schooling her in the game. The mare was so talented that Williamson ended up playing her against England in an international at Plettenberg Bay. People began to notice Champion and she changed hands again, eventually ending up at Val de Vie, where she is owned by Martin Venter, CEO and founder of the Val de Vie Group of companies. Venter is not an experienced polo player and yet he cannot praise the tall chestnut mare with the floppy ears enough. “ She is incredible to ride and has the most amazing temperament”, he tells me at one of the Estate’s regular Wednesday matches. “I have two young children and they often ride her bareback. She just ambles along when they are on board.” I watch Venter play a chukka on Champion and even I can see that the mare is truly talented. She takes Venter to the ball with the greatest of ease, stopping as quickly as she accellerated, allowing him to connect the ball with a satisfying clunk. Kevin Rixon, the polo coach at Val de Vie, regularly rides Champion during lessons and also umpires matches with her. Growing up in a racing family he is well aware of the folklore that chestnuts can be difficult. Yet Champion is just amazing, he tells me. “ You get racehorses who are slow and steady and those make good low goal ponies, then you get ones who are brilliantly fast and agile, perfect for the high speed high goal games. And then you get Champion. I

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can put a beginner on her and she will play a steady, careful game looking after her rider. Yet when a high goaler gets on, she plays a brilliant fast game.” I love hearing all the tales about Champion, but I remind myself that I am here for a photoshoot. Horse photography is one thing, human photography something quite different. Put the two together and you can often end up with a disaster. Inevitably your human model has never been in such close proximity to half a ton of horseflesh, with teeth at the front end and hooves at the back. Persuading said model to stand close to your equine model is often fraught with difficulties. And when the human model has to interact with the equine model that’s when the fun begins. In this case it was a cover shoot for a polo magazine with Ryk Neethling, the marketing manager of Val de Vie as my human model and Champion as my equine one. Now Neethling may be famous as an Olympic gold medal swimmer, but a rider he is not, well not yet. Champion thankfully was brilliant. She posed beautifully, standing dead still with ears pricked, she graciously allowed Neethling to manoeuvre her around into the various poses required, all the while carefully avoiding his feet.The shoot was over without a hitch and I don’t think I have ever had an easier equine model to work with. Champion may be a chestnut, she may be a mare; and while she has her quirks (I am reliably informed that any flapping plastic bag is her absolute worst nightmare), she is a true descendent of that first chestnut mare created from the South Wind, the favourite of the Prophet. So if your journey takes you to a polo match at Val De Vie, ask to meet Champion, you won’t be disappointed.

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EQUIDOME

A WORLD CLASS EQUESTRIAN FACILITY

By Nora-Jean Freeman and Sharlene Venter (Interview with Stan van der Burgh) Photos by T&B Images

hen one looks at the new Equidome in the leafy suburb of Beaulieu in Johannesburg from the outside, one cannot prepare yourself for the experience that awaits you once you enter this magnificent master piece! It is clear that whoever was behind this dreamed big and got it right. Once you’ve driven through the wrought iron gates beautifully adorned with horses and a welcome message, you pass the newly built stable block (specially done for the upcoming FEI World Cup Qualifier) as well as the floodlit MCSA Cloph warm up arena. Gardens have beautifully been laid out and tarred parking is a welcome bonus a show venue. The Equidome inside does not disappoint. With the latest Martin Collins Ecotrack Wax surface, similar to the surface used for the European Indoor Longines Tour, in the 62m x 36m arena, 724 grandstand seats, 10 state-of-theart- hospitality boxes, an upstairs Club House, an upstairs functions room and kitchen, a canteen and to top it off a quaint coffee shop, where you can enjoy the most delicious coffee and refreshments.

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The venue also boasts a 6m x 4m television screen, the top of the range sound system with 50 short distance speakers for minimum noise but covering all areas off the Equidome and permanent television cameras to film all shows happening at the Equidome. Plus, the latest addition, are 6 extractor fans as well as air-conditioners and fans to keep the Equidome as cool as possible. It’s almost exactly a year since Stan and Leoni van der Burgh first told me that they wanted to build an indoor arena on one of their properties in Beaulieu. They had a dream, they said. They wanted to give back to the sport that they are both so passionate about. My first thought was that this would be fantastic for the sport, and I had the feeling that this indoor arena would be bigger and better than anything we’ve seen in this country. The finished product way exceeded all expectations. The Equidome is truly world class.

Leoni van der Burgh & The Burgh’s Aktie

Stan van der Burgh has always been a competitive sporting person and first became involved with horses when his son, Wayne, started riding and competing. Enter Leoni with her passion for horses! Add a natural love for animals, particularly horses and dogs, and Stan was caught, hook, line and sinker. His dream for the Equidome started taking shape when he and Leoni visited several indoor arenas in Europe, with Stan thinking, “It would be great to have something like this in South Africa”. Having retired earlier this year, and being the type that needs to keep busy with one project or another, he felt that building the Equidome would certainly keep him occupied. He didn’t realise just how much he would still be involved though! Just think – it was in November 2014 that Stan and Leoni told of their plans – the architect hadn’t even been appointed yet. Just 10 months later, on 24 September 2015, Equidome opened its doors to the public. This was an amazing achievement, especially considering the obstacles that had to be overcome on the way. The opening show on the weekend of the 24th to 29th

of September exceeded all expectations. Being ungraded, it still managed to draw over 1 000 entries, Saturday 28th September saw a record amount of 310 entries, the highest number ever recorded in South Africa on one day! Stan’s one regret is that the timing of the opening show put huge pressure on all involved. Now with the World Cup Final Qualifier at the end of November being allocated to the Equidome, the pressure has not let up, but the Equidome Team looks forward to December/January to consolidate, take a breath, and prepare for a bumper 2016 calendar. The Equidome will host the Pony Indoor Grand Prix of SA 2016, the Junior Grand Prix of SA 2017, the Adult Grand Prix of South Africa and then in November 2016, the final leg of the FEI World Cup Jumping Qualifiers. There will also be a host of Dressage, Equitation, Vaulting shows as well as seminars and clinics. The Equidome and the Community – both residential and equestrian After some objections from a few residents, the van der

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Leoni van der Burgh & The Burgh’s Aida D

The Equidome Dream Team The people behind, and in front of the scenes are : CEO – Leoni van der Burgh Marketing Manager – Sharlene Venter Operations Manager - Roeleen Bloemhof Show entry co-ordinator/announcer – Jonathan Harrison Accounts – Lynnesey van Tonder Club Manager – Deon van der Westhuizen Chef – David Howell Architect – Peter Cooke Builder – Richard Wright And, of course, Stan van der Burgh. Some Equidome Statistics • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Arena size – 62 x 36 m 5 x 16 seater private boxes; 4 x 8 seater private boxes; Sponsor’s box (seats 20); 724 grand stand seats VIP area/Restaurant, with full bar and grand stand seats for 88 people; Clubhouse with full bar and bird’s eye view of arena from the comfort of leather couches; Canteen Coffee shop 3 offices Parking for 400 cars; Ample horsebox and float parking; 50 European style stables.

Equidome Club Membership Types •

• •

Beaulieu/Blue Hills Country Estate/Heathcliff Manor Resident Members : R25 per annum.This entitles these members to use of the clubhouse (once liquor licence obtained) 7 days a week; Social Member : R200 per annum. This entitles these members to use of clubhouse (once liquor licence obtained) 7 days a week; Riding Member : R500 per annum. This entitles these members to use of the clubhouse as per above, plus Riding Members will get preference to fully subscribed shows, and will have free entries at one in ten shows at the Equidome.

Equidome facilities on offer • Hire arena for lessons (during my chat with Stan some Burlington riders were having lessons in the indoor); • Clinics; • Dressage Ride-and-Go’s; • Restaurant – the restaurant will be available for functions, and starting from 20th November, there will be a Friday night a la Carte menu as well as Sunday lunch buffet (bookings essential – to book, e-mail Sharlene on events@equidome.co.za); • Clubhouse – the clubhouse will be available for all club members as soon as the liquor licence has been finalised (members will be informed when this is done); • The coffee shop is open to the public daily (except Mondays) from 08h30 – 15h00.

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Burgh’s did their best to alleviate the concerns, and the Equidome has now been embraced by the community. Of the equestrian fraternity, Stan said “I couldn’t wish for more support”. Asked, “Now the Equidome is a reality, how do you feel about what you’ve achieved, and where to from here?”, Stan responded, “I am very pleased, but I don’t think I’ve completed my vision. I have always maintained that to have a decent equestrian facility you need to have the special extra’s. My next project will be to add a horse wellness facility with a spa, treadmill etc . We will be starting to supply grass products from February 2016. I also want to change the concept of the current equestrian set up by introducing the fun side rather than just jumping. This means night shows, a League, the return of the Pro-Series, Team events, and of course, training shows. Additionally, now that we have partnered with Ticket Pro, we will be hosting some nonequestrian events.” Clearly, there is much to look forward to at the Equidome, Living the Dream!

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2015 T

here is nothing quite like the thrill of an extreme sport that involves speed and balance. Whether it be racing vehicles, flying down mountains on bikes or skis, skipping over rolling surf, or in the case of equestrian sports, hurtling towards solid fences on six legs, four of which don’t belong to you. This is Eventing, considered “the ultimate challenge of horsemanship.” South Africa has developed hugely over the past few years in terms of bringing the sport up to international standard and the 2015 Polo International Horse Trials presented by DSTV Premium was a thoroughly modern event with a true South African flavour. Traditionally the sport has taken place in the parklands of the great landed estates: Badminton, Burghley, Blenheim and Blair (they often seem to begin with “B”!) A recent trend at major championships is to build completely new tracks and lay them out in different kinds of venues, such as a golf course in Hong

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By Sarah Arnot

Photos by T&B Images

Kong for the Beijing Olympics and Greenwich Park for the London Olympics, which has created new opportunities and the possibility of improving the experience of Eventing as a spectator sport. In November 2015 Pat Parker built on this concept and on her successful Polo International Horse Trials when she secured Waterfall Estate in the heart of Midrand for the 2015 Polo International Horse Trials. The layout of the land means that almost the entire cross country course could be seen from the hospitality tents so that guests could get a real sense of what it takes to ride horses at speed over an international track. To add to the thrill, the 2015 Polo International Horse Trials hosted the Africa Cup, a two-way International with South Africa and Zimbabwe competing for the title. The 2015 South African Inter-Provincials, the Novice Inter-Provincials and the Africa Shield for the lower level riders were also incorporated into this exceptionally busy competition.

Katie Keller winner of the 2015 DStv Polo International Horse Trials on Kankowski

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Alex Peternell riding Danzigs Spirit at the DStv Polo International Horse Trials 2015

Hit Air Africa Eventing Shield Series Winners Zimbabwe Team

The real miracle was to see the cross country courses themselves. David Evans from the UK, who builds major international tracks in England as well as in Africa, came to Johannesburg with his team of course builders, Mike Pope and Carl Fletcher. In a mere three weeks, using borrowed portable fences and their own newly designed fences, they built completely new tracks for four levels of competition that gave competitors pause to think, while getting all horses and riders home safely. Entries came pouring in from all over the country and Pat and her team were thrilled to close entries at 193 combinations. Expecting far smaller numbers they found themselves faced with a huge logistical challenge in quite a small space. A juggling of the schedule saw all the 80 cm and 90 cm riders complete their competition by Saturday evening, while the higher grades, EV100 and CIC 1* did their dressage on Saturday, show jumped on Sunday morning and then rode cross country in the middle of the day on Sunday. This was a hot weekend and Sunday was particularly hot.The organisers made sure to have plenty of cold water and ice to cool horses and riders down at the finish of the cross country phase. I drove my horse up from Paarl, leaving home on the Tuesday

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Mr Tommy Oliphant non executive Director Polo SA congratulating Murray Pote placed 3rd Polo International Horse Trials

RSA Investec Team Stuart Fitzgerald, Alex Peternett, Hayley Parker

with two horses, a team mate, the WP Chef d’Equipe and all our hopes and dreams in the rig, thrilled to ride for Ireland and on the WP Open team – lifetime achievements both. On arrival my horse was slightly unlevel behind and we had to take the very tough decision to withdraw. Fortunately the lameness turned out to be a foot abscess, quickly healed and with no implications for the future. Horses! The show inevitably proceeded without us and Sunday morning started early with the “Pink Pony Walkathon fundraiser for Cansa”. Lead by Katie Bennet on her charming “pink pony,” this was a lovely start to a busy day. Meanwhile with experienced 3*, 2* and 1* horses all competing in the same class, the competition was extremely intense and where it used to be possible to win with a score in the range of 50+ penalties, 7 competitors posted dressage scores in the 40s and the first 5 places went to horses and riders who finished on their dressage score. Young Katherine Keller won the Polo International Horse Trials title for 2015 presented by DStv Premium. She competed at FEI CIC 1* level on Kankowski with a consistent performance across the phases. Second place went to Claire Martin on the experienced Mark

Colin Hallaby member of the winning South African Team of Tipperary Africa Cup on Wows Safwan

in Time while third place went to the talented Murray Pote on his homebred Rivervale’s Romance. A special mention for Heidi Caine, the current SA Individual Champion who came 4th on her horse, Mbulelo. Heidi represented South Africa at the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky in 2010 on her horse Quantum Leap and she gives untiringly of her time to Eventing in KZN as well as being an outstanding rider, particularly in the cross country phase. One highly enjoyable aspect of this class came about because SASCOC requires that any rider hoping to compete at next year’s Olympics must compete in the National Championships. To be competitive internationally our riders have to base themselves in Europe. Somehow they managed to borrow horses and it was fascinating to watch these riders compete unfamiliar horses in all three phases. What a pleasure it must have been for Pat Parker to see her daughter Hayley Parker place top of the international riders, in 7th place.

experienced horses and riders with KZN in second place. However the international riders made up a nominal extra team and did well enough on their borrowed horses to have come second. Western Province was one rider short and with a team of less experienced horses and riders ended up third. The social side of the competition was a huge success, with sponsors’ tents overlooking some of the best sections of the track and the main arena. On Sunday the atmosphere was electric, despite the heat, and it was clear that sponsors and their guests enjoyed the incredible hospitality on offer and loved the thrill of the sport.

The Tipperary Africa Cup was won by South Africa, as was the Hit Air Africa Shield.

A problem with the scoring methodology and data input meant that the results were delayed and this caused some consternation at the end of the show with tired riders keen to attend the prize giving and then get their even more tired equine partners home. While it was frustrating at the time it was unfortunate and shouldn’t overshadow the stunning organisation of the entire event.

The Western Shoppe 2015 South African Interprovincial Championships were won solidly by Gauteng, fielding

Huge thanks to Pat Parker and her team for an incredible weekend of City Eventing.

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From left to right: Assistant Course Designer Craig Wiehan FEI RSA 2* ; Course Designer Kevin Spratley FEI RSA 3 * ; Assistant Course Designer Kate Launder FEI RSA 2*

The Prizewinners of the Riders Uretek Grand Prix. Left to right- Anne-Marie Esslinger (Alzu Oregon), Winner Shannon Smith (Royal Feeds Vanya), Govett Triggol (C-Ultra), and sponsor Tony Pappalardo from Uretek.

The Competitors for the FEI World Cup Qualifier 2015

THE SELLERIA EQUIPE MAPLE RIDGE

FEI WORLD CUP QUALIFIER Maple Ridge Equestrian Farm uniquely situated in The World Heritage Site;The Cradle of Humankind is a household name in the riding fraternity. It is a family run business, driven by passion and enthusiasm, catering for horse lovers from riding school level to being the host for an event as prestigious as a World Cup QualiďŹ er.

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There are major factors that are taken into account when a venue is considered for hosting a World Cup Qualifier. South Africa has six of these events a year and the venues selected for these have to undergo very serious qualification factors. Firstly, the most important factor is the surface of the arena which has to be FEI quality. Today horses are so expensive and of such high quality that it is imperative for them to be jumping on correctly designed and installed surface that meets with FEI standards worldwide. Maple Ridge Equestrian Farm in April 2012 was the first venue in SA to have a Ecotrack All weather Wax Arena installed by Martin Collins South Africa -This a world class surface; The international competition surface most suited to the demanding professional role in the equestrian world, that has set the winning standard in South Africa. This is the 4th consecutive year that Maple Ridge has hosted

Left to right- Foreign Judge Detlev Voight from Namibia, Lisa Williams(3rd),Lorette Knowles-Taylor(1st) Anya Moller(2nd) with Selleria Equipe distributor Caryn Pappalardo with the first prize valued at R50 000 which was won by Lorette

a World Cup Qualifier. It was fantastic to welcome a brand new Title Sponsor to the event “Selleria Equipe Italiana” Saddles, Bridles and accessories Only those people who every day live the passion and love for horses are capable of satisfying the most demanding athletes. Since 1997, “Selleria Equipe” daily confronts the requirements of the most titled riders, best veterinarians and most expert technicians to constantly improve their products. All the persons who every day work and assemble the finest materials to give life to an “Equipe” saddle and an accessory are stimulated to give the best of themselves and to take great care when realising even the smallest detail according to the indications and preferences of the customer. Because of this, the “Selleria Equipe” saddles and accessories

today satisfy the requirements of riders of all levels from a technical point of view and with the maximum attention to the comfort and well-being of the horse. Enquiries Caryn/ Tony 083 633 6169 This year the entire event saw over 1200 entries for the show, catering for all heights The climax of the whole 4 days of Show jumping was the fantastic Main class – The actual World Cup Qualifier set at 1.50. The class had 27 starters. It was very encouraging to see brand new horse and rider combinations making their debut into this league. It is important for South Africa to continue growing these World Cup Qualifiers so that we can stay on par with what is happening in he world and our riders can measure their skills compared to the International Standards.

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21 Nov 2015

BACK-TO-BACK REEM ACRA DOUBLE FOR FERRER-SALAT

pain’s Beatriz Ferrer-Salat and Delgado claimed their second successive victory in the Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage 2015/2016 Western European League at Stuttgart, Germany. Impressive winners in Lyon, France recently they were even more harmonious when pinning Germany’s Isabell Werth and Don Johnson FRH into runner-up spot. There was a top-class turnout from the host nation, and on an afternoon of quality competition German riders also filled third and fourth places with Jessica Von Bredow-Werndl and Unee BB getting the advantage over Fabienne Lutkemeier and D’Agostino. Only three horse-and-rider combinations broke the 80 percent barrier, but there was very little separating fifth-placed Dutchman, Diederik van Silfhout (Arlando NOP), from Germany’s Dorothee Schneider (UlrichEquine’s St Emilion) in sixth and Italy’s Valentina Truppa (Fixdesign Eremo del Castegno) in seventh spot. TARGET SCORE Schneider set the first real target score when posting 78.125. The 46-year-old rider who, with the lovely mare Diva Royal, was a member of the silver medal winning German side at the London 2012 Olympic Games has found a fabulous new prospect in the 10-year-old stallion UlrichEquine’s St Emilion. The partnership is clearly very much still in the making, but the black horse’s potential was more than evident as he produced hugely expressive piaffe and passage on his debut at World Cup level.

By Louise Parkes

However, two horses later, The Netherlands’ van Silfhout forged out in front with a mark of 78.700. The 27-year-old rider, who made a strong contribution to Dutch team gold at this summer’s FEI European Championships in Aachen (GER) produced power and drama from the 10-year-old Arlando NOP, another young horse filled with promise. DEMANDING FLOORPLAN But it was Germany’s Jessica von Bredow-Werndl and Unee BB who posted the first over-80 percent score, helped by a demanding floorplan that included a testing transition from piaffe to canter pirouette. With big artistic scores the pair put 80.150 on the board to go into the lead, only to be immediately demoted by German Dressage queen Isabell Werth with Don Johnson. Werth produced one of her very best performances with the 13-year-old gelding who can be notoriously naughty but who was on his very best behaviour. “Johnny” was clearly enjoying himself in Stuttgart’s Schleyer Halle, his big ears pricked from the outset and paying maximum attention all the way he shot to pole position with a mark of 82.975, and now it was up to the remaining two to better that.

Ferrer-Salat wasn’t to be intimidated however. “I thought I could do a little better than Isabell” she said afterwards, and she was right, her chestnut gelding who has overcome multiple setbacks throughout his career clearly demonstrating Italy’s Valentina Truppa, continuing her remarkable return to once again that persistence pays off. the top end of the sport after a career-threatening head injury sustained in June, presented a lovely clean test from The lightness, the cooperation, the confidence and the amazing ebb and flow of the silent conversation being played the 14-year-old Fixdesign Eremo del Castegno. out between horse and rider was once again a joy to witness, The picture looked a little different, with the 14-year-old and the judges rewarded another fabulous test from this pair gelding showing no tension and relaxing into his work to earn with the winning score of 83.300 - last to go, Lutkemeier, 78.000 which slotted them into second spot temporarily. proving no threat with her mark of 79.900. 92

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Winner Beatriz Ferrer Salat riding Delgado Stuttgart 21/11/15. Pic Karl-Heinz Frieler

GOOD FEELING Ferrer-Salat was delighted with her own performance today. “I had a very good feeling, my horse was really listening to me. He did super pirouettes, and I was very happy with the half-passes, they were much better than in the Grand Prix” she said. She admitted however that “at one point I was too quick and I got ahead of my music, but I still had a great feeling and I was so happy with my horse.” Even though she also won the previous day’s Grand Prix, she said Delgado was much happier in the arena that day. “The previous day he wasn’t so easy, he was edgy, but the great thing about this horse is that he completely trusts me. Even in the prize-giving

he was nervous and afraid, but I asked him to trust me and then he was fine - that is how we are together” she explained. Runner-up Isabell Werth was pleased too. “It was as good as in Aachen (European Championships) and that was the aim. Johnny did an excellent job” she said. And President of the Ground Jury, Dr Dietrich Plewa, said “we had very good sporting day.” Commenting on the top performances of the afternoon he pointed out, “Delgado is so elastic and does such great passage and piaffe and Don Johnson has so much power while Jessica (von Bredow-Werndl) is very

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Winner Beatriz Ferrer Salat riding Delgado Stuttgart 21/11/15. Pic Karl-Heinz Frieler

Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage 2015/2016 leaderboard: standings after Round 3 of the Western European League at Stuttgart (GER): 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 6. 8. 9. 10. 10. 10. 13. 13. 15. 15. 15.

Marcela Krinke Susmelj SUI Beatriz Ferrer-Salat ESP Patrik Kittel SWE Jessica von Bredow-Werndl GER Inna Logutenkova UKR Fabienne Lutkemeier GER Goncales Carvalho POR Judy Reynolds IRL Valentina Truppa ITA Alexandre Ayache FRA Ellen Schulten-Baumer GER Edward Gal NED Charlotte Haid Bondergaard SWE Jenny Larsson SWE Anna Kasprzak DEN Isabell Werth GER Matthias Bouten GER

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much in harmony with her horse.” He added “it was a great competition to judge and the result was so close it could have gone any way, but I think we got the right winner.” Event Director, Gotthilf Riexinger, had the last laugh at the Ground Jury’s expense however when he commented on the accuracy and consistency of the marks submitted by spectators who, at this event, also get the opportunity to award points for each rider’s test. “It’s wonderful to have spectators also judging the competition - it really gets them involved, and here in Stuttgart they really know their sport. In fact I’m thinking I can start saving money next year if the the spectators can do the judging for me instead.....” he joked.

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22 Nov 2015 Winner Christian Ahlmann (GER) riding Codex One,Presenting is Rainer Eckert Longines Brandmanager.

AWESOME AHLMANN STEALS THE LONGINES LIMELIGHT AT STUTTGART By Louise Parkes Photos by Karl-Heinz Frieler

hristian Ahlmann and Codex One secured a home nation victory at the fifth leg of the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping 2015/2016 Western European League in Stuttgart, Germany. In a classic five-way jump-off, the 40-year-old rider and his 13-year-old stallion crushed the opposition with a devastating turn of speed when secondlast to go against the clock, and Ahlmann has now moved up to third place on the Western European League leaderboard ahead of the sixth leg of the series in Madrid, Spain. Sweden’s Douglas Lindelow set the jump-off target time and held on for runner-up spot ahead of Germany’s Patrick Stuhlmeyer in third, while Ireland’s Cameron Hanley lined up fourth. Frenchman, Patrice Delaveau, had to settle for fifth place when his jump-off round didn’t go to plan, but his compatriots - Simon Delestre and Penelope Leprevost - continue to head the league table as the qualifying series moves towards the half-way stage. 96

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SEEMED LENIENT An intriguing course designed by Belgium’s Luc Musette initially seemed a little lenient when two of the first three riders jumped clear. But there was a sting in the tail here, with the final line of fences taking a heavy toll as the competition evolved. A very narrow vertical at fence three was the undoing of many, while the triple combination at fence seven also clocked up plenty of faults, but it was the negotiation of the water-tray oxer three from home and the decision whether to go on four or five strides to the following double of verticals that proved decisive, with many also losing their line and balance to the last if they ran into problems here. Amongst the starting field of 39 there were many superstars of the sport, but the list of first-round retirements included a number of them. World and European double-gold medallist, Jeroen Dubbeldam, called it a day with the 10-year-old Classic Man V, a relative newcomer to this level of the sport, while three-time FEI World Cup™ Jumping champions Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum

Winner Christian Ahlmann (GER) riding Codex One.

and Marcus Ehning from Germany also retired. MichaelsBeerbaum’s grey, the spectacular Fibonacci, was clearly not firing on all cylinders while Ehning’s Singular LS La Silla was also not on form. And although the home crowd were spellbound when Michael Jung, the unchallenged supremo of the sport of Eventing, set off with Sportsmann S, there excitement was short-lived as the pair pulled up after a mistake at the oxer fence four. The veteran John Whitaker was one of three denied a place in the timed round when exceeding the 73-seconds time limit in an otherwise foot-perfect run with the 10-year-old mare Ornellaia but the British legend secured some valuable points towards the Final when securing sixth spot before the jump-off got underway. A HOT ONE And it was a hot one from the outset, Lindelow’s 12-year-old chestnut gelding’s deceptive pace bringing the Swedish pair home in 51.02 seconds which would prove a tough time to beat.

Musette presented them with an unusually long jump-off track of nine fences and 10 jumping efforts that asked for dare-devil turns and blistering speed in order to be in with a shot. Ireland’s Hanley showed he is right back in the game when winning final round with Antello Z, but he was more than a second adrift when breaking the beam with Z Acodate DDL and while Patrick Stuhlmeyer and Lacan posted 52.03 to go ahead of the Irish duo, the German pair were still more than a second behind the Swedish leaders. Ahlmann however threw caution to the wind, his figure-of-eight turns through the new oxer at fence 18 to the two remaining elements of the triple combination and on to the vertical at fence eight shaving off valuable fractions of seconds and his gallop to the penultimate oxer at fence 10 and to the final vertical left the crowd screaming with delight. The clock showed 49.78 seconds and now only the flying Frenchman, Patrice Delaveau, could spoil a big German party. But while it all fell into place for Ahlmann, the fences just didn’t come up right for Delaveau and when

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Patrick Stuhlmeyer riding Lacan.

Lacrimoso kicked the bricks out of the wall, formerly the first and now the third obstacle on the course, he wisely retired. GAVE IT HIS ALL Ahlmann said afterwards that he gave it his all against the clock. “I thought I could do it, but I had to try everything - I was really focused on being fast enough and I took every risk from jump to jump - it worked really well from the start to the finish! I saw exactly what Douglas did and I knew I couldn’t take less strides, so I just needed to take tighter turns and to go a bit faster”, he explained. He was delighted with Codex One who had a relatively quiet summer season. “We did the Nations Cup in Rotterdam and I tried for the European Championships but we didn’t make it, so I gave him some time to rest” said the man whose massive haul of career medals includes double-gold at the 2003 FEI European Championship in Donaueschingen (GER) in 2003 and the FEI World Cup™ Jumping title which he won on home turf in Leipzig in 2011 with Taloubet Z.

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Codex One returned to action at Brussels (BEL) in September and was in the ribbons in Munich (GER) recently, so the rider knew he was coming back to his best. “He’ll have a week off now and then I’ll take him to either Paris or Geneva - I’m planning one more show for him before the end of the year but I’m in a lucky situation because I have a few Grand Prix horses I can take to shows right now which is very nice, so I’ll be keeping busy myself, going to Madrid, Paris, Geneva and Mechelen” said Ahlmann who added, “and I really want to qualify for the Final in Gothenburg.” Ahlmann has enjoyed a brilliant week at Stuttgart, winning two cars in the process, and as the post-competition press conference was winding up this evening he was asked how he intends to get the two of them home to Belgium. “I don’t know” he replied with a grin, “but I’m looking forward to solving the problem!” He will have no shortage of transport options for getting to Gothenburg for the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Final which will take place in the Swedish city from 23 to 28 March 2016.

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