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A marathon runner. In top form. The new Porsche Macan S Diesel. 2015 South African Car of the Year. Do intense moments have to be fleeting? With high performance engines and technologies tested on the race track, the new Porsche Macan S Diesel provides a lasting endorphin rush, with minimal fuel consumption. Performance and efficiency, highly intensified.
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Fuel consumption in l/100 km: city 6.7; highway 5.7; combined 6.1 • CO2 emissions: 159 g/km • Power: 180 kW (245 hp) • Torque: 580 Nm • 0 - 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds
www.porschesouthafrica.com
Porsche Centre Johannesburg Tel: 011 540 5000
Porsche Centre Cape Town Tel: 021 555 6800
Porsche Centre Umhlanga Tel: 031 514 3000
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CONTENTS
10 REGULARS 6 6 8 22 26 67
Letter from the Editor Advertisers Cover story - Callaho Auction 2015 Rider Profile: Barry Taylor Yvonne Bolton Horse Profile: Counter Attack Yvonne Bolton Subscription Page
14 62
THIS ISSUE 10 16 30 36 40
LIFESTYLE Lifestyle Essentials Equestrian Essentials
40
30
47 52
Nissan Easter Festival Caroline Malan Enthusiast Driven: The New Cayenne South African Friesian Stud named Best Breeder in the World South Africa amongst the best in the worldKFPS Stallion Show Kate Baynes The Nooitgedachter Izak Hofmeyr Winning Days For Warmbloods: Horse Of The Year 2015 Frances Cheboub Free Jumping at the Presidents Cup Young Horse Festival Frances Cheboub
COVER
Callaho Warmblood Stud Auction 2015 Image by Tracy Robertson
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CONTENTS THE TEAM
68 THIS ISSUE 56 61 63 68 70 74 77
2015 FEI Children’s International Classics Final Michelle Dawson Book Launch: Fenella Kurland Eventing Sarah Arnot FEI World Cup™ Vaulting Final Daniel Kaiser Gal And Undercover Reign Supreme Louise Parkes FEI World Cup™ Driving Cindy Timmer Guerdat Gallops To Second Longines Victory Louise Parkes
Johan Blom Editor
Pieter Hugo Managing Director
Marie Chin Advertising Executive
Marguerite le Roux Senior Designer
Gasnat Jaffer Office Manager
Nikki Kellogg USA Sales Executive
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
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
Fax: (+27) 21 790 8047 • Tel: (+27) 21 790 1983
www.silver mane .co.za
Published by: SilverMane Media www.silvermane.co.za
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
W
elcome to our April/May Edition of Sporting Horse Magazine. The season is definitely turning, with precious hours of daylight giving way to earlier sunsets and later sunrises, it feels like we are being robbed of those special hours spent outside during summer. That said, winter brings with it a necessary change of scenery and a slower pace for some. We at Sporting Horse Magazine, are looking forward to the upcoming Callaho Auction on the 6th of June 2015. This event has over the years become the premier Warmblood Auction in South Africa as well as one of the largest social gatherings within the South African sport horse community. We look forward to seeing you all there. We have the pleasure of featuring Marlise Botes of Doorndraai Stud, the 2015 KFPS Breeder of the Year 2014 on page 30. We have featured many of the Doorndraai Stars on the Cover of Sporting Horse Magazine, congratulations Marlise on being honoured with this prestigious title. We take a look at the South African Horse of the Year Competition on page 47, Eventing at Kurland on page 63 and The Nooitgedachter breed on 40. The FEI Children’s Championships were held in Mexico recently, we take a closer look on page 56. As part of our regular features, we take a look at The FEI World Cup Vaulting Final, we pick up the Reem Acra Dressage Circuit and take a look at some action from the Longines Show Jumping Series in Europe. Sporting Horse Magazine will as always be at the Nissan Easter Festival, what an exciting competition this has become, with the top riders and horses across South Africa taking part in this multi-day event. It is with sadness that Sporting Horse Magazine learnt of the passing of Peter Taylor. Many of you will know him from around the show arena or associate him with transporting your horses safely around South Africa. Our condolences go out to his family and friends.
Johan Blom
ADVERTISERS Breivilo Nooitgedachter Stud Callaho Stud DeStalSmit Stud Doorndraai Friesian Stud Epol Equine Group Equipage Karorado Stud Manor DĂ“r Mark White Nissan Midfeeds Notting Hill Stud Polo SA Porsche Premier Equestrian Supplies Steenberg Tork Craft Strips Trailer.co.za Vtech Western Shoppe
46 FC 46 34 25 51 IBC 45 2 13 55 20 OBC 1 19 9 52 67 29 7
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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Range of stable rugs, turnout rugs and fleeces available.
A H E R I TA G E O F equestrian excellence
Tra d e r s i n Fi n e S a d d l e r y
and Equestrian Supplies
Head Office: 011 361 2000. 152B Capricorn Drive, Paulshof, Johannesburg. CT: 021 551-4410. DBN: 031 765-1295. PTA: 012 807-1931. PE: 041 367-1424. BFN: 051 451-9205.
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COVER STORY
Callaho T Auction
he much-anticipated 2015 Callaho Auction takes place on the 6th of June at Callaho Stud, near Christiana. Since the inaugural auction seven years ago, this annual event has become one of the most popular fixtures on the South African sport horse calendar.
2015
CONTADOR
(Con Coriano / Landor S / Compliment)
FANFARE
(For Joy / Granulit / Contender)
LACOSTE
(Lissabon / Stolzenberg / Argentinus)
The Callaho auction format is unique as there are no reserve prices, the sale process is completely transparent, and each horse is sold for its true market value as determined by open auction. This year’s 37 auction riding horses are a remarkable group of youngsters representing the very best of international bloodlines. They have received basic classical training over the past year - and they are now ready to move on to new things. Six broodmares, each in foal to one of the Callaho stallions, will also be on offer.
LE PADINO
(Lissabon / Padinus / Calato)
LISANDOR
(Lissabon / Landor S / Compliment)
MACY GRAY
(Manaloj xx / Granulit / Argentinus)
Photos by Tracy Robertson
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Lorette Taylor
By Caroline Malan (The PR Machine) Photos by T&B Images
NISSAN EASTER FESTIVAL Where champions compete Within the Nissan Easter Festival is the coveted Nissan Outdoor Grand Prix – one of the big three titles that every top showjumper dreams of winning. There’s no love lost at the top and it’s each man to their own on the day. We caught up with some of the favourites to see what their thinking is ahead of this 10 day Easter extravaganza and more importantly how they fancy their chances come 6 April.
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Ronnie Healy
Nicola Sime
A
Bronwyn Short - Photo by H2 Photography
nyone can win on the day. But more often than not the win starts long before the final class. It’s the in form combination that have prepared smartly, are fit, confident and peaking at the right time. It’s the rider who believes in his steed, who remains calm despite the crowds, fearless of failure and 100% determined to take the title no matter what. Perhaps one of the gutsiest jockeys on the circuit and SA fourth ranked rider Bronwyn Meredith Short tells us how she tries to remain focused on herself and her horses throughout the show.
“I do take into consideration how ‘hungry’ the other competitors may be for a win at the specific event. For example if another rider has been without a win for a while they may be more competitive in a run off taking chances they wouldn’t usually. Keeping the other competitors in mind motivates me to ride better as I am very competitive!” She believes that her highly competitive nature is her greatest asset, “I don’t think a rider can be taught to want to win.There are many good riders that are content with having good jumping rounds. I really want to win.This is within reason as you have to take Issue 22 SPORTING HORSE
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Barry Taylor
into consideration the horse’s level and point in training. Being so competitive motivates me to be disciplined and train hard because if I don’t I won’t get results. If I am honest, it doesn’t hurt to be so small either. My horses have far less weight to carry and I do think this gives me an advantage.” Hot on her heals though will be the athlete who has won the title a massive 9 times, and has never missed an Easter Festival show since its inception. Barry Taylor can still recall dreaming of winning it one day, “My dream was to ride against the top riders – although that was many years ago! It took many years of hard work to get to where I am today but I wouldn’t change it for anything. There still exists the thrill to find or produce another champion horse or rider and the fight to win the big class. My advice to the eager fan is to come and watch some terrific horse sport and get motivated to be your best. Hard work can take you to places you never believed you could get to.”
Grand Prix and we have to try and qualify in two qualifiers before the final class. Having said that, I am really blessed just to be competing at this level – to have fantastic horses, sponsors and owners, which goes a long way in me wanting to please them and perform at my best.”
For Ronnie Healy, he’s been competing in the show since he was 10 years old, ‘”I remember sitting at school and counting down the hours until I could go and ride. I wanted to compete at the top and overseas and through hard work I achieved this goal. I love the Easter Fest – with all ages and grades competing at one venue it makes for a great vibe and plenty of non-stop action. It’s so busy that most of the top riders don’t stop between their classes and teaching their pupils - so I’m not entirely certain we have time to think about anything else including our competitors! I would like to advise the horse loving public to come watch us warm up before the big classes – I learnt so much from the warm up when I competed overseas. Also feel free to ask us questions – every top rider When waiting at the Bob Charter entrance before he jumps, started at the bottom and it’s only through hard work and the Barry says he concentrates solely on how to ride his round, accumulation of knowledge that we got to where we are today.” “To make a top showjumping combination you need talent, hard work and a good horse. When it comes to the big day I focus The South African showjumping circuit is littered with champions. on my game plan as well as my pupils and nothing much else. Athlete’s who live and breathe their horses, who read about horses The Nissan Easter Festival is also my luckiest competition so that when they’re not riding them, who simply can’t be torn away helps!” from the sport even for their Easter holidays! So as the Nissan Easter Festival approaches, we encourage the eager equestrian to Going head to head with Barry will be his equally determined get down to Kyalami Equestrian Park from 28 March to 6 April wife, Lorette. With her “never say die” attitude, talented mounts to watch everyone who’s someone in the sport perform with and bundles of talent, this blond ambition is never one to write-off, blood, sweat and tears in their ultimate goal of being crowned the “This is a major show for us top riders, so I think that we’re generally 2015 Nissan SA Outdoor Grand Prix champion. Sporting Horse a little stressed because of our desire to win. The competition wishes every rider a safe and enjoyable show and may you each is always very fierce as there are only 24 places available in the achieve your goals and enjoy the journey whilst you do so. 14
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POLO Carla Box Front Tunic Dress – R999 Helena Sleeveless Quilted Vest – R1199
LIFESTYLE ESSENTIALS Veuve Clicquot Rosé With the Veuve Clicquot Rosé Scream Your Love megaphone,Veuve Clicquot and its “zeste de folie” celebrate love in the most audacious way possible.
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Adawnment Jewellery
La Grande Classique de Longines La Grande Classique de Longines embodies the oldest aesthetic tradition of the brand known the world over for its winged hourglass logo.The ultra-slim profile of the specially designed case lends this collection a timeless beauty. Maintaining all the characteristics of the original creations, the models in this line can be seen to grace the wrists of those who appreciate reliability.
LIFESTYLE ESSENTIALS Moët Rosé Impérial Vibrantly suited in pink and black with elegant leather accents, Moët Rosé Impérial Unfurl the Tie perfectly reflects the delicate yet bold nuances embodied in the Maison’s rosé champagne.
The Longines Equestrian Pocket Watch Horses Trio 1911 The Swiss watch brand presents The Longines Equestrian Pocket Watch Horses Trio 1911, a pocket watch in 18-carat rose gold, as a tribute to Longine’s passion for equestrian sports. Produced in a very limited series of numbered pieces, its back is decorated with an engraving of a trio of horses.The metal Lépine pocket watch that was the inspiration for this new edition is kept at the Longines Saint-Imier museum.
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Porsche Centre Johannesburg Tel: 011 540 5000
Porsche Centre Cape Town Tel: 021 555 6800
Porsche Centre Umhlanga Tel: 031 514 3000
ENTHUSIAST DRIVEN
THE NEW CAYENNE Dynamic performance, five doors, comfort, style. The Cayenne continues on its path of success. With a new design, new driver assistance systems, new drive components, a higher output, yet comparatively low fuel consumption, this Cayenne raises the bar in the SUV segment yet again.
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F
irmly cemented in its position as a sports car amongst SUVs, the new Porsche Cayenne is poised to redefine the segment with a sharpened design and enhanced efficiency. With more power and comfort than ever before, the new Cayenne is extending the brand’s heritage of performance excellence and showcasing the latest evolution of Porsche design DNA. The new generation Cayenne launched in five versions: Cayenne Diesel, Cayenne S Diesel, Cayenne S, Cayenne Turbo, and, for the first time, the Cayenne S E-Hybrid, the first plug-in hybrid in the premium SUV segment.
Adding to the new Cayenne’s attributes, all derivative engine versions now boast upgraded performance figures as well as superior fuel economy compared to that of previous versions. The Cayenne S will showcase an entirely new 3.6-litre V6 biturbo engine fully developed by Porsche. First introduced in 2002 the model set a new standard as the superior sports car in the SUV segment. Sales have exceeded all expectations with over 579,000 units produced since its launch. In its latest version, Porsche engineers have given the Cayenne an even sharper design with precise lines and purposefully
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Porsche Centre Johannesburg Tel: 011 540 5000
Porsche Centre Cape Town Tel: 021 555 6800
Porsche Centre Umhlanga Tel: 031 514 3000
placed light refracting edges. Front body, front wings, bonnet and air blades are also newly shaped.
We take pleasure in advising that the following items are now standard in the new Cayenne Model Range: • Multi-function Sport Steering wheel • Bi-Xenon Headlights • Automatic Tailgate • Universal Audio Interface • Tyre Pressure Monitoring
In the interior, much of the layout has been shaped around the driver, with a new multifunction sport steering wheel featuring shift paddles as standard. Power and torque have been boosted while improving fuel economy in line with Porsche’s commitment to maximum output from minimum input. Max. power (kW)
Max. torque (Nm)
at RPM
Top speed (km/h)
Acceleration 0–100 km/h (in seconds)
Fuel consumption Combined (in l/100km)
CO2 (in g/km)
Price 3 year Driveplan
Cayenne Diesel
180 kW (245 hp)
550
1,750 – 2,750
221
7.3*
6.6
173
R921 000
Cayenne S
309 kW (420 hp)
550
1,350 – 4,500
259
5.4*
9.5
223
R986 000
Cayenne S Diesel
283 kW (385 hp)
850
2,000 – 2,750
252
5.3*
8.0
209
R1 151 000
Cayenne S E-Hybrid
306 kW (416 hp)
590
3,000 – 5,250
243
5.9*
3.4
79
R1 133 000
Cayenne Turbo
382 kW (520 hp)
750
2,250 – 4,000
279
4.4*
11.2
261
R1 760 000
*With Sport Chrono Package. Prices and specification are subject to change without prior notice. All prices include 14% VAT and CO2 Tax. E&OE.
Please contact your nearest Porsche Centre to book or spec your own Cayenne. Porsche Centre Johannesburg: 011 540 5000; Porsche Centre Cape Town: 021 555 6800; Porsche Centre Umhlanga: 031 514 3000
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HORSEPROFILE RIDER PROFILE Barry and Nissan Nabab Forever winning the Discovery WCQ in 2012
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HORSEPROFILE RIDER PROFILE
BARRY
TAYLOR By Yvonne Bolton / Photos by T&B Images & H2 Photography You were born into an Equestrian family – tell us a little about your younger years in Kimberley. Where did you ride and who instructed you as a child? My father was a top rider and instructor having won the SA Championships twice and competing successfully in Europe. He also trained many great riders in SA and Europe. My mother was also an accomplished rider and trainer and she mainly trained me in my younger years. My father also had a lot to do with my formative training.
1974 at the old Indoor Arena. My inspiration was always my parents and David Stubbs, who also had a lot to do with my initial training, as he came to Kimberley 4 times a year, as part of the BP Equitation Plan.
Kimberley was the best place then to be riding as we all rode at the Pony Club every weekend with some of the best riders this country as seen. They included Lachlan MacLachan, Mike Benjamin, Rogan Asken, Evan Anderson and Jaco Gertenbach to name a few. You had to know how to ride to beat these guys. I was also very fortunate to live on Mauritzfontein Stud for all my younger years, which was a real privilege.
When did you first move to Johannesburg and give us a little insight into your time as a Race Horse Trainer? I moved to Johannesburg after the army and started riding full time. In the early 90’s I trained racehorses and I loved working with the horses, but I struggled with a lot of the owners, as they were only interested in the gambling and not necessarily the horses. I also battled to get good horses, as you needed the wealthy owners to buy the better horses. It was a great experience, but then I went back to riding and dealing and also started instructing.
You rode from a very young age and started competing at six years old – do you have any fond memories of special ponies you rode then? I was lucky to have some great ponies, as my mother was a pony and horse dealer and she would go to the cattle and horse auctions in Kimberley every week and buy ponies. My best pony was called Dagwood, which she bought for R45 and we eventually sold him for R6,000 some years later. When you progressed to Juniors was Show Jumping the only Discipline you competed in and who was your inspiration as a Coach at this time? No, as my mother made us do every discipline for two reasons. Firstly, to become an all-round rider before specializing in one discipline and because the Free State Province never had enough riders in Juniors for all the Teams. Nobody believes me today, but I got Provincial Colours for Show Jumping, Dressage, Showing and Eventing. In addition, I finished 4th in the BP Equitation Finals to Greg Cleverdon in
During your Junior career did you often travel to shows elsewhere in South Africa? We always travelled all over SA and we also went to Zimbabwe to compete against them in Junior South African Teams.
When did you establish Farnham Stables and where was it first located? I started Farnham Stables in 1983 in Chartwell, when I bought the property owned by the Petersons, where the Broadacres Shopping Centre is today. They had called it Farnham after the village in England, where they came from. I sold it in 2000 and moved down the road, because I love the area and my clients all came from around there. You have had innumerable successes over the years – what would be your most memorable achievements and horses over the past several years? The best horse I have had is Powerforce and he made my career. When I was still making mistakes, as a young rider in the big classes, he made me look good. He was a thoroughbred, but I think he would still be a good horse today. Avalanche was the bravest horse I ever had and I was successful Issue 22 SPORTING HORSE
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HORSEPROFILE RIDER PROFILE
Barry on Titanic
Team Nissan
Barry on Sund
ay’s Eagle
Ashlee Taylor on
Moulin Rouge
Barry on Power Force
in Europe with him. Other great Grand Prix horses were Checkpoint, Sunday’s Eagle, Thirty Something, Brullo, Quincy, Wyoming, Nabab Forever, Gladiator and now Counter Attack. I think my most memorable achievements have been winning the Derby 4 times and every World Cup. Also winning the British Men’s Championship at Royal Windsor Castle on Thirty Something and all the Nations Cups I rode in for SA.
We were very lucky to be given the great pony Moulin Rouge for her and she really looks after Ashlee.
What impact do you think your sponsor Nissan SA has had on you personally,Team Nissan and the Equestrian industry in South Africa? The support Nissan SA have given to our Equestrian sport is unparalled! Besides sponsoring 2 major Shows, we now have Whom do you think are the current leading International Coaches 6 riders in Team Nissan from development level to Grand Prix riders. and Equestrian countries and what makes them so successful? Germany is still the leading Nation success-wise, as well as in For me personally it is great to have such a reputable Company numbers, breeding and producing of horses and riders. England, backing us. France, Holland, Belguim and USA are also all strong equestrian What is your favourite event and which venues do you prefer and countries. Coach-wise, I think all the top nations have good coaches and why? My favourite shows are the Nissan Easter Festival and the Derby systems that work for there way of riding and training. – the Bob Charter Arena has been a very lucky arena for me. With your daughter, Ashlee, having recently started competing in On the lighter side, when you have time off, what other hobbies or the PR Classes – do you find this exciting and/or nerve-wracking? Very nerve-wracking, but I absolutely love it and never miss her pursuits do you enjoy? shows. I get more enjoyment seeing her compete than riding I enjoy golf, when I get the time, but usually go away and just myself. She is competitive like myself, but she goes too fast in sleep and relax. Lorette and I both love travelling and spending time with our family. the jump-offs just like her Mom.
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HORSE HORSE PROFILE PROFILE
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HORSE HORSE PROFILE PROFILE
COUNTER ATTACK By Yvonne Bolton / Photos by T&B Images
I believe Quintin Jansen purchased Counter Attack in 2010 from Hilmar Meyer – what was the horse’s early history and where was he bred and produced?
East Germany and the mare I don’t know. I think Counter Attack was able to be purchased as he has a lot of blood and is quite feisty.
He was competing at a 1.30m level in Germany and he had also done all the age classes. He was bred in East Germany by a friend of Hilmar’s and produced on the farm before going to Hilmar.
When did Quintin Jansen move his horses to Farnham and what were your impressions when you first rode Counter Attack?
Counter Attack is a Holsteiner by Carbano out of a Corleone mare – have either his sire or dam produced any other good jumpers?
The horse came to me in December 2013 and initially I thought he had big scope and was careful, but I was a little worried about his mind and how he would handle the pressure in the big classes. However, luckily he has matured into a top horse.
I don’t think Carbano was that popular because he stood in
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HORSE PROFILE
I was lucky that he had a good grounding with his previous rider. Last year he won the first World Cup he jumped in and had only 2 fences down and the water in the Derby – not bad for a horse who started 2014 in 1.35m.
important, but you can live with a few defects.
You have produced many horses successfully yourself, what qualities do you look for when acquiring a new horse?
Temperament relates to ride-ability. If you haven’t got it, you will at some stage get caught out. Counter has an amazing personality, but he is hot to ride and gets over zealous, however, he is getting better as he matures.
With today’s technical courses ride-ability is a priority. Then you need braveness, scope, soundness and a quality jump – like finding a needle in a haystack! I have never had the budget to buy the best, so have always tried to find a brave horse with enough scope. Then rely on my training to get it rideable enough and on my experience to keep it sound. Would you make a purchase solely on talent, scope and bloodline or does conformation also influence your decision? Everything is relevant to budget. You can’t do without the talent and braveness to jump the fences and conformation is
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How important is temperament over talent in your opinion and what sort of personality does Counter Attack have?
All top horses have some quirks – what are Counter Attack’s and what is he like around the Yard? He is great character and wouldn’t hurt a fly. Like a large Teddy Bear that all the kids in the stable love. He loves chewing everything, so don’t leave anything on the ground within his reach. What is your most memorable achievement with Counter Attack to date? Definitely the World Cup in Polokwane – we never expected it as it was his first World Cup.
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SO U TH A FR IC A N FR IESIA N STU D N A M ED
BEST BREEDER IN THE WORLD Marlise & Tjalf 443
I
n 2012 Doorndraai finished third behind 2 Dutch breeders and in 2013 they moved one spot up to second place. Both years they were the top International breeder outside the Netherlands finishing above countries such as Germany, Belgium, United States of America and Australia. The results for 2014 that were announced in January 2015 at the Stallion Show in Leeuwarden, NDL were awaited with great anticipation by Marlise and Danie Botes the owners of the Stud. Continuous hard work and dedication to the breed resulted in a big upset when Doorndraai was named the Top Breeder in the world for 2014. Not only did the award go to a non-European breeder but also to a woman. With 16 000 members in over 50 countries and 70 000 registered horses world wide this
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Since the KFPS (Koninklijke Vereniging Het Friesch Paarden Stamboek) in The Netherlands introduced the prestigious ‘Breeder of the Year’ award in 2012, Doorndraai Friesian Stud located in Pretoria East has been a regular visitor to the top of this exclusive list. achievement is something to be immensely proud of for the entire South African Friesian and equestrian community. The results are based on the outcome of inspections held all over the world and they take place in South Africa during February and October. One point is awarded for a second premie and two for a first premie and in the end the breeder with the most points walks away with the award. Premies are a very good indication of high quality and first premies are not handed out freely. During the inspection foals, as well as older horses are presented for premies. With foals judges look at Racial Type, Frame, Development, Walk and Trot. In older horses they look at Racial Type, Conformation, Quality
Friso Fan S. ‘Sport’
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Friso Fan S & Alida Copeland De Jager
Viggo van Doorndraai
of the Legs, Walk and Trot. A score out of 10 is given for each and if sevens are achieved on average it will result in a first premie. Older horses can then achieve Star status as well if a second premie or higher is achieved. With mares a first premie can lead to them becoming Voorlopig Kroon where after an under saddle or carriage test called an IBOP test has to be done where a score of 77 points may result in them becoming Kroon. Mares can also become Model when they are over the age of 7 with at least one offspring. They have to still have a youthful appearance and move exceptionally. Then there is also the status of Preferent which is achieved when a mare has bred four or more star offspring.
Second Premie Star Mares, 1 Second Premie Star Gelding, 2 Star Stallions, 1 Model Mare, 1 Preferent Mare.
During the February 2015 Inspections Doorndraai achieved exceptional results yet again which shows why they are the Best Friesian Breeder in the world.
Previously there were only a handfull of first premies across South Africa and to have seven first premie foals at one inspection at Doorndraai was a first in South Africa. Titske fan Kolderveen who became Model was a truly exceptional result as no mare has ever achieved this status in South Africa as the only two other Model mares were imported.
Foal Judging: 7 First Premies, 7 Second Premies, 2 Third Premies. Judging for Studbook: 1 First Premie Star mare, 4
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The most outstanding achievements during this inspection for Doorndraai was the great number of first premies, the first mare to become Model in South Africa and the second ever mare to become Preferent in South Africa. What makes these achievements even more significant is the fact that South Africa only has 3 Studbook Stallions to use for breeding (Dries 421, Fetse 349 and Tjalf 443). In Europe there are a great number to choose from which shows that with the right approach and selective breeding great results can be achieved.
Karien van Doorndraai & Lisa-Sue Hoffman
The other great moment was Rita van Geyerspan who became Preferent when two of her offspring became Star (Juliette van Doorndraai Bb1 Stb Star and Gordon van Doorndraai Rb Star) at the February inspections which means she has five Star offspring. This means she became only the second mare ever in South African to receive Preferent status (The other was Loret Bb1 Pref *6 who also achieved this status at Doorndraai only to die of the West Nile virus shortly after becoming Preferent). Since 1996 when Marlise and Danie started the stud it has always been their main priority to improve the Friesian breed through selective breeding and careful planning. The above results are a testament to their dedication to correct breeding and training methods. In the past two years the stud has also dedicated itself to a more rigorous training program for the horses that was developed by Jolanda Schreuder and Nynke Bosma and is now managed by Lisa Sue Hoffman and Alida Copeland De Jager. With Doorndraai horses that
Maximus van Doorndraai
are under saddle the Friesian Breed is now competing on more levels than ever before and achieving excellent results along the way, giving this versatile and outgoing breed much deserved exposure. The Doorndraai horses have especially been doing well in dressage with Friso fan S. achieving ‘Sport’ status in 2014 and many other young horses achieving high marks in the dressage arena. This hard work has also played a big role in the longevity and success achieved by Doorndraai Friesian Stud at inspections and if you are looking for your next dressage champion you can contact Altie Clark on 083 299 1356 & Marlise Botes on 083 263 7800 or go to our website www.doorndraaistud.co.za for more information on Horses for Sale. You can also visit the FPSSA website at www.fpssa.co.za for more information on the judging, registration and much more about the Friesian Horse.
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2014 - Best Breeding Stud in the World as named by the KFPS in NDL
Titske fan Kolderveen Stb Model. The first mare to achieve Model Status in South Africa during the February 2015 Inspection at Doorndraai Friesian Stud.
Home of Tjalf 443 ‘Sport’ & Friso fan S. Vb Star ‘Sport’ www.doorndraaistud.co.za 36
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Thorben van Doorndraai Bb1 Vb H DOB: 12/11/2014 - Foal Premie: 1st D: Rita van Geyerspan Bb1 Stb Star Pref *5 S: Tjalf 443 ‘Sport’
FOR SALE
OWNER: Marlise Botes +27 83 263 7800 botesm@mweb.co.za SALES: Altie Clark +27 83 299 1356 altieclark@yahoo.com
Lennerd van Doorndraai Vb H DOB: 24/10/2011 D: Yvonne van Doorndraai Bb1 Stb Issue 22 SPORTING 37 S: TjalfHORSE 443 ‘Sport’
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Jean Van Deventer on Tweespan Librium
Photos by Diana Bloemendal / Text supplied by KFPS & FPSSA
SOUTH AFRICA
AMONGST THE BEST IN THE WORLD KFPS STALLION SHOW 2015
A
s South Africans we love our rugby, in the Netherlands Friesian horses are their rugby. The Friesian breed and its popularity draw huge crowds throughout the summer. These include traditional show trotting, carriage driving, breed days, inspections/judging’s and dressage. The most important of these is the KFPS Stallion Show, held
each year in Leeuwaarden. From all quarters of the world some 20,000 to 25,000 visitors travelled to the WTC Expo in Leeuwarden. The Stallion Show has evolved into a broad event over 3 days, in which elements of education and show have gained a strong foothold, but with the selection of young stallions for the Performance Test still at centre stage. The process of selection of young stallions consists of 3 rounds throughout the year culminating at the Stallion Show.
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A traditional Sjees
Chere Burger on Adelprag Anders 451
Once again the 2015 Stallion Show proved to be an epic event! The theme for this year’s show evening was the partnership between humans and Friesian horses. The Friesian horse has had a chequered career, nearly becoming extinct. The courage and foresight of a group of people many years ago ensured that the Friesian horse had a future. Through the hardships of preserving the Friesian it has brought the Friesian people together as a country. It is beyond doubt that this partnership is what motivates so many people to flock together each year for the KFPS Stallion Show. The Friday night show was all about this special bond between people and Friesian horses. The FPSSA and our South African Friesian community are truly proud of the achievements that we as a country have achieved. This year’s Stallion Show paid tribute to 2 South African’s that have had a huge impact on the Friesian world. 40
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World famous Joey from the War Horse
South Africa’s impact on the Friesian World Marlise Botes of Doorndraai Friesian Stud in Pretoria, became the World’s Best Breeder of Friesians 2014. It is the first time that this has been awarded to a breeder outside of Holland and also the first time to a woman. Another proud moment for the Friesian world was when Chere Burger entered the arena at WEG 2014 with Adelprag Anders 451. As a tribute to her success and the Friesian Breed, Chere and Adelprag Anders performed a Freestyle musical Kur. She was accompanied by a live Pianist Wibi Soerjadi. A beautiful demonstration of man, music and beautiful Friesian. Also in the programme were more stirring moments of wonder and admiration. Such as, the interpretation of the song ‘Sier en Tier’ by Gerrit Breteler and Mintsje de Boer,
while Tweespan Librium was ridden by one of South Africa’s great riders and trainer Jean van Deventer. As Jean explains “it was a contemporary dance expressing the hardships the Friesian breed has been through”. To add to a wonderful evening, Joey from the War Horse took to centre stage. An abstract work of art that was transformed by movement into a real horse, evoking real emotion. To top the evening, and demonstrating the true beauty of the Friesian temperament was the Horse in a Bubble. Years of training by Ester Liano ensure the trust needed to perform such and extraordinary display. The Champion Friesian Stallion After three magnificent days, the moment arrived for the final inspection of the overall champion stallion. This turned into an incredibly exhilarating climax.The battle was between
two fathers and their sons: Norbert 444 and son Hessel 480, Tsjalle 454 and his son Jehannes 484. The Overall Champion was won by first-timer Jehannes 484. The Reserve Overall Champion was scooped up by Hessel 480. KFPS Chairman Bert Wassenaar said ‘We can look back on three terrific days with a great selection of young horses and a fantastic audience. But in our capacity as the Board we are already looking to the future. In spite of enormous interest from the public we still haven’t realised the potential we are striving to achieve “. It is very clear to the FPSSA that the Friesian horse has a future. Tim Baynes, chairman of the FPSSA says ”for South Africa to keep up with the Netherlands it is really important to buy and breed wisely. We hope that one day in the future we will see similar events such as the Stallion Show in South Africa to show off the diversity and ability of the Friesian Breed.”
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By Izak Hofmeyr
The Nooitgedachter
Steeped in history, but as modern as they come
The day, somewhere between 1825 and 1830, when King Moshoeshoe of the Basotho mounted a horse for the first time, was in effect also the first day of the story of the Nooitgedachter.
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Waaksaam Blou, 2014 Supreme Champion Working Hunter, keeping an eye on proceedings at the National Nooitgedachter Championships (Fine Photography)
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K
ing Moshoeshoe immediately saw the strategic value of horses and by 1850, a mere 20 years later, the Basotho Pony was already known and recognised as a distinct type. The Basotho Pony developed largely through natural selection and its fame revolved around its stamina, docility, extremely hardy hooves, endurance, good temperament and sure-footedness. These characteristics have remained a valuable “trademark” to this day. The glory days of the Basotho Pony, unfortunately, did not last long and its history is actually a tragic one. It is to this history that the Nooitgedachter owes it existence. By the 1950’s it was realised that the Basotho Pony was facing extinction.The Anglo-Boer War, malnutrition and bad management practices depleted the numbers and quality of Basotho Ponies and hastened the decline in conformation and performance. Breeding and cross-breeding was largely unregulated and the introduction of Thoroughbred stallions led to further deterioration in the skeletal quality and the ability to endure the harsh environment. In 1952, at the Nooitgedacht Research Station near Ermelo in
Mpumalanga, the Department of Agriculture of the then Union of South Africa initiated a project for “the preservation of the Basotho Pony and the development of a South African utility riding horse”. Over the previous two years a committee chaired by Prof. J.H.R. Bisschop of the Onderstepoort Veterinary Faculty, made extensive journeys into Lesotho and farming districts surrounding that country, in search of suitable breeding material for this project. After due consideration a nucleus of 11 mares and 2 stallions were purchased from Mr J.A.N Cloete in the Molteno district and Mr Matewis Willemse from Memel. Both breeders, situated in districts close to Lesotho, had sufficient records to show that their original breeding material were of Basutho Pony origin of pre-Anglo Boer War stock. The committee found them to be phenotypically superior to the horses they inspected in Lesotho. The ultimate object of the Nooitgedacht breeding project was to stimulate the establishment of private studs elsewhere in the country with a vision of reviving the breed to its former status and usefulness. Although they recognised the keen demand for horses of this type in and around the bigger urban communities of South Africa, those officials responsible for the project nevertheless
The stallion Arop Ryka, 2014 Grand Champion Nooitgedachter Stallion. Ryka is woned by the Arop stud and handled here by Chris Hartman (Fine Photography)
The gelding Herneuter Lafras, driven by Bonita Bondesio.
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Karla Olivier and Breivilo LL Little Mischief
Breivilo Eldorado ridden by Janelle Prinsloo (T&B Images)
firmly adhered to the policy that the ponies bred at Nooitgedacht should retain their pre-eminence primarily as work horses on livestock farms. In the selection of breeding stock, special care was given to the tractable disposition and docile temperament which were such treasured characteristics of the Basutho Pony.
Although these characteristics still form the basis of selection today, the height prescriptions have in the meanwhile been amended to range from a minimum of 13.3 to 16 hands.
THE MODERN NOOITGEDACHTER It is one thing singing the praises of the Nooitgedachter as being the The end result was what we know today as the Nooitgedachter. heir apparent to the once famous Basotho Pony.What one should A breed society was formed in 1969 and in 1976 SA Studbook not forget, however, is that the Basotho developed and reached its recognised the Nooitgedachter as the couuntry’s first indigenous fame under a very specific set of circumstances. These had to do with the specific environment in the mountains of Basotholand, as horse breed. well as the way in which they were treated and used. The characteristics that they strived for were: • A strongly built pony (later called horse) with emphasis on riding qualities and stamina. These circumstances do not exist anymore for the modern • A docile temperament and high degree of human affinity. Nooitgedachter.The market these days demand different attributes. • Limbs with dense, flat bone, strong joints and high quality hooves. This is a fact that breeders of Nooitgedachters are acutely aware It was envisaged that the ponies should preferably not be shod. of, so the breeding philosophy of many is to try and retain those • Hardiness and weight carrying ability. characteristics that made the horse famous, namely
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The gelding Breivilo Hendrik with Brando Smit in the saddle, competing in a Western Riding competition. (Picture by Marlie Joubert of NFNT Photography)
docility, extremely hardy hooves, endurance, good temperament, excellent constitution and sure-footedness, and to put on top of that the athletic requirements of the modern sport horse market. To this end the Nooitgedacht Horse Breeders’ Society takes great care to select superior breeding material. A specific set of selection criteria has been developed and horses that do not comply are rejected as breeding material. Over the years the Nooitgedachter has made a name for itself as a tough contender in especially the working-horse type competitions. There are several very successful children showjumpers and dressage horses, endurance horses and eventers. In the showring the Nooitgedachter has been represented with distinction, having won the working riding horse championship at the Derby, among others. In recent years a handsome export market into other African countries has started to develop. The reason this export initiative is so successfull is because the horses adapt so well and are truly excellent athletes. Although the Nooitgedachter is primarly seen as a child’s sporting pony, it is by no means restricted to the children sporting arena. There is an increasing demand for Nooitgedachters among adults who are looking for an undemanding, dependable and hardy riding
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horse. Many of these riders realise that they have limited time to devote to riding, but they want a horse that would be there for them, even when ridden less regularly than what is ideal. The Nooitgedachter fits this requirement like a glove. There is a breed of farmer, expecially in the more arid, extensive western parts of the country, for whom horses are an integral part of the management of their farms. Many of them choose the Nooitgedachter. Why? Because, they say, the Nooitgedachter gives them what they need - a sturdy, no-nonsense, low maintainance workhorse that stays sound and can stand up to very adverse working conditions. In a recent interview well-known dressage rider Jaco Fourie said: “I repeat often to my clients that thousands of amateur riders out there spend thousands of rand on huge and expensive horses, in the hope that these horses will take them to the top. I firmly believe that most of these riders would go much further on a Nooitgedachter due to that amazing temperament. What they may perhaps lose in top movement, they make up a thousand times in their trainability and temperament.” With their delightful affinity towards humans, Nooitgedachters make very good friends. And that is the Number One trademark of the Nooitgedachter.
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Ordep Silhoutte – Champion Warmblood Mare shown by Alnord Mkhala and owned by Farm Inn
2015
WINNING DAYS FOR WARMBLOODS
HORSE OF THE YEAR By Frances Cheboub – Breed Manager SAWHS
Photos by T&B Images
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Lezar Sateen owned by Liz Naude - Champion Warmblood Riding Hose
HORSE OF THE YEAR 2015
Champion Irish Sport Horse Mare In Hand - Morgana Le Fay and the Reserve Champion filly Carridwen both owned by Louise Oliver
H
Seduction owner Gerhard Pretorius - 1st 1-2 yr old colts
orse of the Year 2015 was a week later in February than usual, with Irish Sport Horse classes starting on Thursday 19 February and Warmbloods following on the Friday and Saturday.
IRISH SPORT HORSE CLASSES These classes were sponsored by Millsleigh Irish Sport Horse Stud situated in the Eastern Free State and Zena Penfold the owner, was present to hand out her super head collars and other great prizes that were sponsored by Solo Saddlers. Long time supports of Irish Sport horses, Louise Oliver and Paula Lasersohn had a particularly successful show. Champion Irish Sport Horse Mare In Hand was Morgana Le Fay (Myrddin/ Bon Voyage xx) owned by Lousie Oliver and the Reserve Champion was the sweet foal Carridwen (Myrddin/Acclaim (Holst)) also owned by Louise Oliver. Champion Irish Sport Horse Gelding In Hand went to Wow’s Shamrock (Glenagyle Rebel / Gallentry xx) owned by Paula Lasersohn and the Reserve Champion was EC Celtic Warrior (Glenagyle Rebel / Pas de Quoi xx ) owned by Ane’ Barwise. Champion Irish Sport Horse Stallion In Hand was the handsome dark bay Myrddin (Ethrow Impasse/ Yvonand xx) who went on
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to win the Grand Champion Irish Sports horse in Hand owned by Louse Oliver and the Reserve Champion in Hand went to Wow’s Shamrock owned by Paula Lasersohn. Champion Irish Riding Sport Horse went to Wow’s Shamrock owned by Paula Lasersohn and the Reserve Champion was Calronin’s Escape the Blues owned by Emma Screen. WARMBLOOD IN HAND CLASSES Our judge for In Hand and Ridden classes was Nicky Wright, a showing judge from the Eastern Cape who did an excellent job. Solo Saddlers contributed a stunning array of useful gifts to all our classes which delighted the winners. We had a lovely selection of well bred foals in the Under One year old class sponsored by Gondor Stud with foal’s sires being Rotspon (Hann), De Niro (Hann), Kellow Confession (SAW), Myrrdin (SA ISH) and Quantico (Hann). Placed 1st was Grand Roux Roseandreo (Rotspon/ Sandreo) bred by Kobus and Margie Roux. Placed 2nd was Chain Reaction VTS (Kellow Confession/ Sebastian) owned by Tarryn Combrink. In the 1-2 year old Colts & Fillies class sponsored by Manor D’Or Exclusive Equestrian Management, 1st went to Seduction (Sonnentanzer (Old)/ Wenckstern (Hann) owned by Gerhard
Myrddin - Grand Champion Irish Sport Horse In Hand
Pretorius and 2nd to Saratoga Dalida Solo (Don Colour/ Waldemar (KWPN)). The 2-3 year old Colts had a 1st place going to Habanera Castano (Desperado (KWPN)/ Glenridge) owned by Angli Hoekstra and the winner of the 2-3 year old Fillies was Midas Touch Bulgari (Bacio (KWPN)/ Sandro Hit (Old) followed by Sierra Nevada owned & bred by Sam Davis in 2nd place, an SA Irish Sport Horse by Senergy / Glenagyle Rebel(RID).
3rd Boogy Woogy (Sandreo/ Contango (Old)).
We were pleased to have Brian Kerr & Associates School of Professional Trucking on board as new sponsors for the Class Mares 3-5 years old. Ordep Silhoutte (Sir Oldenburg/ Olivi (KWPN) continues to shine in her third year competing at HOY with a 1st place for the Michaelatos family and Midas Touch Barley (Bacio/ Sebastian (KWPN)) took 2nd place and is owned by Gerhard Pretorius.
The 3-5 year old stallion class had Lancrest Depardieu (Desperado/ Wolfgang (KWPN)) taking first place and the over 5 year old class Stallion had Eeh Jazz (Jazz/ Kennedy (KWPN)) winner of that group. Again in the Championship for Colts and Stallions all the young colts competed and the Champion Warmblood Stallion In Hand went to Eeh Jazz owned by Jean van Deventer and the Reserve Champion was Lancrest Depardieu owned by Susan Human.
Due to the number of Mares in the open aged class it had to be divided into two pools. In Pool 1 sponsored by De Bruyn Equine Services, 1st place went to Rambelholm Gonnafly (Gowell I/ Donnerhall (Old)) and Peta Evens, 2nd Arwen Evenstar (MOT Diaghilev/ Rubinero (Old)) and 3rd Lezar Casablanca (Alzu Cyclone/ Aurelius). In Pool 2 sponsored by Ability Solutions, 1st place went to Dageraad Elma (Rhodium/ Flemmingh (KWPN)) owned by Michael Peiser, who two weeks later received a Premium at her mare inspections, 2nd Boumans Largo Breeze (Principal Largo/ Beau Veneur (SF)),
Then all the first & second placed mares and fillies competed against each other for Mare Championship. The young mare Ordep Silhoutte was crowned Champion Warmblood Mare In Hand owned by Farm Inn and the Reserve Champion was Midas Touch Bulgari owned by Nicky Whitfield.
Our Gelding class is always well supported and was sponsored by Lehle Engineering. The Champion Warmblood Gelding In Hand went to the handsome Rambleholm Gothago (Gowell I/ Donnerhall) owned by Peta Conroy Evans and the Reserve Champion Gelding was GL Fortissimo (Funderdell (Hann)/ Noble Thatch xx) owned by Kim Lynch, third position went to Saratoga Bon Jovi (Wlademar/ Costal xx). The culmination of a day of wonderfully turned out, good looking Issue 22 SPORTING HORSE
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Eeh Jazz - Grand Champion In Hand Warmblood
HORSE OF THE YEAR 2015
Rambleholm Gottago – Supreme Champion Gelding HOY
South Lawn - Supreme Champion Riding Horse HOY
horses came with the final Grand Champion In Hand Warmblood that was awarded to Eeh Jazz and Jean van Deventer who received a stunning blanket from Solo Saddlers and the Reserve Champion In Hand Warmblood went to Ordep Silhouette, the leggy model mare owned by Farm Inn. WARMBLOOD RIDDEN CLASSES On Saturday, a much cooler day, the riding classes were judged again by Nicky Wright while Siobhan Records was the ridden judge. In the 16hh & under class 1st place went to Chabal Adagio (Uron M/ Land Earl (Holst)) and 2nd place went to Lezar Sateen (San Sicario/ Fearless (Holst)). The over 16hh class was divided into two pools because of numbers and in Pool 1 Brandenburg Lepanto (Land Earl/ Canello (Holst)) came 1st, Eeh Jazz placed 2nd and 3rd went to Rambleholm Gonnafly. In the Pool 2, the stallion Cheveyo (Cantero/ Cassini) took 1st place and 2nd went to Boumans Largo Breeze (Principal Largo/ Beau Veneur (SF)), and 3rd to Always Right (Always One R/ Diavolo)). The first & second placed horses from these three classes then came in to be judged for an overall winner that was sponsored by Manor D’Or Exclusive Equestrian Management. Champion Warmblood Riding Horse went to Lezar Sateen owned by Liz Naude who had travelled up all the way from KZN to compete and the Reserve Champion was the recently SAW licensed stallion Cheveyo (Holst) owned by Quinten & Liesel Jansen. 52
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That left only the Young Dressage class for horses up to 5 years old, to be judged by Candice Hobday and Lillian Moller who would give public feedback to each competitor after they had completed their test. Equipage Insurance sponsored the class and gave a super blanket to the Champion Potential 5 & under Dressage Horse, Seeis Gantigo (Gallion/ Seeis Solid Gold) belonging to Morgan Badenhorst. The Reserve Champion went to Gallica Rose (Granulit/ Land Earl (Holst)) owned by P. Rix with 3rd place to the stallion Tierra Pequena Zenith (Zuidpool/ Mossandi Damascus (SAW)) owned by Jean van Deventer. OVER ALL SUPREME CHAMPIONSHIPS HOY 2015 It was very good news to hear that Lezar Casablanca (Alzu Cyclone/ Aurelius) owned by Liz Naude that had qualified via the General Breed classes, went on to take the title of Supreme Champion Breed Horse of HOY 2015, making it two stunning wins for her horses from Natal. Supreme Champion Gelding of HOY 2015 was taken by another long distance traveller up from the Hogsback area of Eastern Cape and that was Rambleholm Gothago (Gowell I/ Donnerhall) owned by Peta Evans. We also congratulate the esteemed showing competitor Lynda Kirchmann for winning the Supreme Champion Riding Horse HOY 2015 on the beautiful presented “South Lawn”.
EQUINE GROUP The Equine Group is a niche financial services company that specifically services both the sport horse and thoroughbred industry. Equine offer four core products: • Bloodstock insurance • An outsourced administration function for racehorse trainers • An administration service for racehorse owners (a product particularly popular with non residents racing in South Africa). • VAT administration for racehorse owners. Equine is owned and managed by Chris Haynes, Gary Grant and Christine Terblanche. Chris and Gary are both Chartered Accountants, who pioneered VAT administration back in the 1990’s. Christine has made a career of bloodstock insurance. All three have in excess of twenty years industry experience. An apparent anomaly in the South African market is that consumers are primarily rate driven, with little consideration being given to the security behind the cover they are purchasing. With Equine your security is Lloyds, the founders of insurance, having traded for more than two hundred years. South African bloodstock insurance rates have declined steadily over the past five years and now compete successfully with international rates. Our all risks of mortality policies may also be endorsed to include a critical care and life saving surgery benefit to a maximum of R 70 000. Contact Christine for a tailor made insurance solution.
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Champion & winner of the 4 year olds : Luigi Di Cantero
FREE JUMPING
at the Presidents Cup Young Horse Festival By Frances Cheboub
Photos by T&B Images
The Free Jumping event takes place the weekend before the major Presidents Cup 5 day showjumping extravaganza. Sponsored by Tork Craft Power Tool Accessories, this was our second year as a stand alone event after it grew too big to stay in the main showjumping week. We now pair up with the first leg of the Young Horse Performance Series as this is the natural follow on for the young free jumpers and call it the Presidents Cup Young Horse Festival.
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Luigi Di Cantero with Judges
Second in the 4 year olds : Esprit
Two year old winner: Kellow Quintally
W
e were thrilled with the turn out of people who watched and super sponsors whose colourful banners lit up the area. The latest lay out for the ring was a curve of the fence at the far end that led into the jumping line and was laid out for us courtesy of Mr Rik van Miert our esteemed judge, former Chairman of the BWP and now Vice President of the World Breed Federation of Sport Horses and Guus Swinnen of Het Poeleind Stud in Belgium. Our local judge was Sheryl Pote of Rivervale Stud who came up from Natal. Just about all the horses were locally bred and a pleasing spread of breeding lines was seen in them. We saw some of the last of the Brandenburg Clifton (Craftsman xx out of Davenport Boots & all who was by Bahadur xx/ Dolerit ) line in Sara Rickerts horse Jarizu Coligny who looked a bit overwhelmed by the occasion and I believe will come back stronger in a years time. There was also the surprise package of Saragon whose dam Chabal Danica (Lindenberg /Espoir) no one knew was in foal until it arrived 10
days after his mother had competed at a jumping show to the astonishment of the Fick family. After some detective work to find the sire it turned out to be Lancrest Pomme D’Or and they were the owners of a well bred jumping foal. Lancrest Encore (Esaro / Wunderbar) owned by Mythos stud won the best turned out horse and looked talented and will show himself more when a year older.Then Neriska Prinsloo based in Belgium on the international jumping circuit, organised to enter her two youngsters.These were both out of the same dam Gratina by Graf Sponek. First we saw Qualitina by QualityTime (Quantum /Cantus)KWPN and then her Valentino KWPN name Van Tastique by the well known jumper Now or Never and it placed 2nd. Third placed was a new member Bonita Polly and her lovely Consuello youngster called Catori Sunrise, while the winner of the class went to the bold Kellow Quintally by Quintender out of Kellow Brave Alley (Branic Bellini D’Or/ Acclaim). There was stiff competition in the Three year old class as strong candidates in last year’s winners line up in the Two year olds
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Reserve Champion: Kellow Confession
Winning foal: Gondor Onassi
competed again and were all in the places with a completely different judge but just changed the order of their placings. Kellow Confession (Crusader / Clarinius/ Fine Edge xx) has grown and strengthened into an exciting competitor and won the class this year while he was 3rd last year. Gondor Pacapo (Parco/ Uron M/ Rex Grannus Z) was 2nd last year and this year to the delight of his new owner Chatan Hendriks and sponsor Air Holidays. Gondor Porte Bonheur (Parco/ Sheyenne de Baugy/ Heartbreaker) was not as vigorous as the previous year where he got the Overall Champions sash, nevertheless he took a strong 3rd place. We had Adelt Calegro up from the Free State that continued to show the popularity of Consuelo (Corofino/ Landgraf I) as a sire of jumpers and he was out of a Dolerit mare. It was also satisfying to see a new member Annake Vreken bringing classic old Alzu and Davenport warmblood breeding to the show in their horses Ogileto (Optimum vd Wellington/ Landjunker/ Wachmann III) & Primi Piatti (Pyrmont/ Lanjunker/ Wachmann III). Amongst the Four year olds there were a couple of competitors that wanted to see if their horses were worthwhile keeping entire and the classes’ standard was high. Two Consuelo offspring were in this class, Adelt Conlynne and Branic Crescendo and still show that the stallion is a good progenitor of jumpers. Then there was an
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eyecatching black horse Gondor UFO by Udokes( that Lorette had competed on in the Open classes) owned by James White who won best turned out and will be interesting to watch going forwards. Esprit (My Emerald xx/ Last Step Larry dl Bryere) demonstrated his potential as a top sport horse showing electric technique to take second place for a proud Claire Martin. Namibian breeding was not left out of the equation and Alpha Nadia by Satisfaction HANN (Stakkato /Calypso II) of an Elliodor xx mare took 3rd place while her foal stayed in the ring on the sidelines and behaved admirally. Luigi di Cantero BWP (sire: Diabeau by Clinton /Skippy & dam: Contact vd Heffink /Caretino) grey, gallant and good looking, the winner of the class entered the cage and made sure no one missed him. This young stallion lit up the ring and effortlessly produced jumps that had the spectators gasping, all the while with his mind on the mares in the parking area. He belongs to Lynda Rabie of Branic Stud. He deservedly took the final Championship and did Lynda and her team proud. The Reserve Champion was the interesting Kellow Confession a young stallion with a pedigree distributed with famous C-line Holstein breeding. It was a wonderful day and the SA Warmblood Horse Society thank Gondor Stud for bringing out the judge and Maple Ridge for the their facilities and super staff. See you all again next year!
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By Yvonne Bolton / Photos by Michelle Dawson
2015 FEI CHILDREN’S INTERNATIONAL CLASSICS FINAL
SPORTING HORSE CAUGHT UP WITH TRAVIS DAWSON ABOUT THE 2015 FEI CHILDREN’S INTERNATIONAL CLASSIC FINAL. 1. When did you and Thomas Triggol qualify for the FEI Children’s International Classics Final and tell us a little about the South African competition – when and where it was held? The South African leg of the competition was held in August 2014 at Kyalami Equestrian Park in the Stubbs WarmUp Arena. There are very specific measurements for the Arena, as every course in the world designated as the FEI Competitions has to be identical. The competitions went well with both FEI events providing a very strong field of competitors. Thomas won the first class with myself coming second and then in the second class Amanda Skeen won with Thomas second and myself third. After all the qualifying competitions, Thomas ranked 2nd in the world with myself in 6th place. 2. As Thomas was the winner of the South African Competition, he automatically qualified to ride at the Final. However, your final result must have been excellent too, for an invitation to be extended to a 2nd South
African – how is this calculated? It is calculated by adding your total time in both competitions’ jump off and your total faults throughout the two competitions. Both Thomas and I had zero faults with very quick times resulting in us ending up so high in the final rankings. 3. This was not your first trip to a FEI Children’s International Classics Final – where did you go previously and what were your impressions of that occasion? Previously I had gone to Brasilia in Brazil, which is the capital and main business district of Brazil. It is the first completely planned and man-designed city from scratch and was very modern with skyscrapers and it was interesting to see how the riding could fit into such a busy city. Well it did – the Riding Centres were located on the outer districts of the city, so they could be away from everything and have space for the horses.
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However, something I have noticed on my trips, is that South Africa is one of the few countries where our horses have the luxury of being in paddocks daily. 4. Where was the Final held this time and who accompanied you and Thomas on the journey?
We were able to make friends quickly, as we were all together and Tom and I were eager to learn about the other countries and what they knew about us. We laughed when they asked “Do you have lions in your back yard”?
6. How many riders altogether made up the Final and how many were from the host country? Did The final was held in Valle de Bravo in Mexico and luckily those from the host country have to provide the horses both my family and Thomas’s family were able to join us. not only for themselves but also for those riders from Regretably, my brother and Thomas’s sister were unable to abroad? accompany us, as they are both in their final year at College, nevertheless, we had constant support from them both Altogether, there are 36 riders – 16 are from the host country through messages and Facebook and they have to provide 2 horses each, one of which they get to ride themselves. 5. When you reached your destination, were all the competitors accommodated in the same Hotel and were The riders from the host country get to draw first and you able to meet and make friends with young riders afterwards the rest are put back in the bowl and the foreign from many other countries? athletes then choose a horse. At what Show venue was the Final held and Yes, all the competitors were housed in the Avandaro Hotel, 7. which is situated next to the Valle de Bravo Lake, which is give us some of your impressions regarding the Opening truly massive. 60
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Ceremony, the Arena and other facilities provided for this prestigious event?
with the new mounts and are you restricted to a certain number of jumps?
The Mexicans were very clever, as they held our event in conjunction with another one of their big shows called the Triple Capita. As a result all the facilities were ‘top of the range’, including a huge marquee where all the riders and other important guests were seated. We even had a few world- class riders in the same area as ourselves, amongst them Frederico Fernandez.
After the draw you are allowed two training sessions, one on that day and another before the warm-up competition.
8. Where did the Draw for your horses take place and tell us a little about the horses you and Thomas finally got to ride? The draw for the horses took place at the show venue and Thomas and I were both lucky to draw very talented horses with a lot of heart and courage. 9. Did you have a Training Session after the Draw - how long are you allowed to familiarize yourselves
The duration of the training sessions is 30 minutes each, in which you are allowed 6 jumps in all over an upright and oxer, however, fortunately the cross-poles are not counted. 10. Tell us a little about the two warm-up classes – what type of competition they were and how you and Thomas managed on the different horses? The warm-up classes were designed so that you could test your horse and your horse could get used to the new rider. The first was a one round on time and Thomas went first with an excellent clear round and the fastest time of the day. I followed with another clear round, which proved to be the third fastest time of the day.
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11. How many riders qualify for the Championship and are these split between the host country and the visiting competitors? Was the final track quite a technical course and at what height was it set at? The Championship was made up of the top 8 Mexican riders according to the results of the previous competitions and the top 8 foreign riders.
entertained with whilst at the Final? On the days when we were jumping early or late and we had some free time, the organizers arranged some wonderful outings for us to bond and relax together. One such event was a canopy tour, which was truly amazing set above Mexico’s forests and on another occasion we went Go-Karting and to a rally. Then there were trips into town to visit the local restaurants, which was a truly fantastic experience – I especially enjoyed the taco’s!!!
Both Thomas and I qualified and the track proved to be a very technical one made up of 12 jumps with the height set at 1.20m. Bearing in mind that we had only had two warm up sessions and two competitions to get to know the horses, All in all an outstanding trip filled with wonderful memories and left us having made some brilliant new friends. it was quite a daunting task. Catrina and I had the last rail down and Thomas had a few difficulties with his horse. 12. Give us a little background on the social outings and functions that were organized for all the competitors and what new fun sports you were
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A huge thank you goes out from myself and Thomas to our parents for making this trip possible, to the SA International Rider’s Fund, to the FEI for covering our flight and accommodation costs and to the Mexican Federation for hosting such a prestigious and memorable show for all the riders.
BOOK LAUNCH Nicola Hayward shares with International Racehorse Magazine her journey from equine lover to novelist and a short extract of her recently published novel, Fenella.
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icola recalls, “When I was six years old I was expelled from ballet classes. The dancing teacher advised my mother to enrol me for riding lessons. Her advice was the kernel for a life-long love affair with all things equine. It sentenced my parents to more than a decade of weekends spent towing a horsebox around the Natal Midlands and as far afield as Cape Town and Kimberley. It was a wonderful way to grow up. I matriculated from St Anne’s Diocesan College as Dux of the school in 1981. Although I gave up riding while at university where I eventually graduated with a Masters in Medical Biochemistry, I maintained an active interest in the sport. After my marriage I bought a retired racehorse who I rode until I was seven months pregnant with our first child. Soon afterwards my husband bought a property in the semidesert Tanqua Karoo where I was able to fulfil the life-long dream of becoming involved in breeding. While frustrating and at times heart breaking, it was the inspiration for a new venture into journalism.” Having written for HQ Magazine, International Racehorse Magazine, Thoroughbred Owner and Breeder (London) and thoroughbredinternet.com (Newmarket UK), in 2011 she enrolled in an online creative writing course under the guidance of Ron Irwin from the University of Cape Town. “While my husband Neil has always been the patient financier, we have two daughters, aged 20 and 18, both of whom have ridden most of their lives. They both share my unbridled passion for the written word and so it has been a great privilege to have written a story that gets their seal of approval.“
FANELLA - BY NICOLA HAYWARD “That didn’t look good,” muttered Tommy. But then like me, he refocused on the screen. I looked for Jinja and found her mid-field and hopelessly boxed in. She was stuck and had nowhere to go. At the front Major Sebastian had taken the lead, his jockey working hard with the stick as he rode for the line. I looked for my brave filly and saw Jack take a hold and slow her momentarily, allowing her to fall behind the horse on her inside. A gap opened in front and to the right and she headed for it. Jack shook the reins at her and Jinja pinned her ears back, swished her tail and accelerated. “Here comes Lady Goodwin,” said the announcer above the yells and shouts around me. “The filly is flying, she’s almost there, Major Sebastian, Lady Goodwin,” the line was just strides away.The gap between the two horses was closing but Major Sebastian still held the upper hand. “Major Sebastian,” the tension in the announcer’s voice was clear. Around me people were shouting and jumping up and down but I felt like I was cocooned in a bubble of fear, excitement and hope.
The book will be available on Amazon and Magzter.com for book reader copies Hard copies can be ordered directly from: e-mail: nicola@hayward.co.za Cell: 072 455 0695 website: nicolahayward.com
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KURLAND EVENTING
THE MOST BEAUTIFUL VENUE IN SOUTH AFRICA At the foot of the Tsistikama mountains in Plettenburg Bay lies the huge, elegant Kurland Estate. The land covers mountains and valleys, woodland and pasture. Cows and horses graze lazily in the meadows, knee deep in lush green grass while the fish eagle calls overhead. Dazzling in the sunlight, carved out of the undulating land are huge flat polo fields, impeccably maintained.
By Sarah Arnot / Photos by Lance Gibbons
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ow picture this: a small group of people, carrying stakes, gathered on the main polo field around an eloquent Englishman. This is Eric Winter, one of the leading cross country course designers in the world. He is used to working with great estates; he designs the cross country tracks at Blenheim Palace, one of the greatest of them all.
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stakes into jumps Eric Winter weaves magic by turning
Eric Winter and Peter Behr
Kurland’s thousands of hectares are nothing to him, he squints his eyes against the African sunlight and already he can see the positioning of fences, can hear the beat: “one, two, three, silence, land, go!” as a horse and rider soar over fences not yet built. Eric’s mission in South Africa is bigger than this beautiful venue, however. He is here to help us standardise all of our cross country courses against the global standard. To help us build fair, challenging and safe tracks that will position more and more of our horses and riders to rise through the levels and ride confidently at FEI 1* and above. Kurland Horse Trials is destined to become one of South Africa’s top eventing venues. It has everything: the land, the space, the facilities for the horses – and for the lucky ones who decide to go for “the Kurland package” some of the best accommodation in South Africa. For those who choose a simpler style of accommodation, Plett offers something for every budget. The first show will be in June 2015 and the Western Province Eventing Championships will be held there in October 2015.
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The Kurland team want to be seen as contributing more to SA Eventing than just a venue, so they have been working with Western Province Eventing to ensure that we give as much to the country as to the venue. Anna Roberts Antonsson, a generous WP Eventing member, kindly sponsored Eric’s flight to South Africa. Eric himself suggested that rather than come to design tracks, he come and train our designers and builders throughout the country so that we can all benefit as much as possible from his knowledge. In November 2014 he led a course building workshop at Kurland, and then another at Inanda Country Base in Johannesburg. Plans never work perfectly of course and Eric’s flight from London Heathrow never actually took off. There was a problem with the plane so serious that he had to overnight in London and flew down the next day on a different plane. As a result he arrived 24 hours late for a packed schedule. Not one to be put off by this kind of irritation he was straight onto a quadbike and out to visit the property and spent every possible hour of light looking at potential tracks and
guiding our design and build team through their thinking. Mark Trueb who has designed the tracks at the legendary Noordhoek RC Eventing for many years leads the team of three course designers and builders. He is working with the talented duo of Andile Balula and Jackie Peskens. Andile is an outstanding course builder working fulltime in the Western Cape and he aims to become a certified course designer up to FEI1* level. Jackie works as a designer and builder primarily in George and PE and she is known for building challenging tracks that demand confident forward riding. All three are thrilled to be working at Kurland and to have Eric’s input and guidance from the start. This writer arrived at Kurland mid-morning on Friday, the day of the official workshop which included all our WC and EC Course Designers, Technical Directors and Cross Country judges. Graham Winn who has been working with us in the Western Cape came down to join this workshop and provide continuity in Gauteng. By the time I arrived the discussion was well underway. Eric uses a modern approach to training
in that he draws out knowledge and understanding from the group, stimulating and facilitating discussion rather than merely sharing his own knowledge. Very often he would ask the question “should you do this?” “Why would you do that?” and if it led to hot debate, he would wait until the right answer came from the group before reinforcing that answer and explaining WHY it is so. Sometimes he would let the debate rumble on and when, puzzled, we would turn to him and say “what is the right answer?” he would reply – “there isn’t one, it’s not so important. Horses and riders can cope with variety in that kind of question.” His approach is holistic; individual jumps are important but not as important as whether the whole track asks the right questions at the every level and has flow and balance. He was quite strict about some matters: placing jumps on an uphill slope is a no-no; it’s very important to use the first four fences to get the horse and rider flowing on a good rhythm, so these fences shouldn’t include any real questions. He dislikes sharp turns, and we discussed how fences can
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th Eric Winter wi
and Andile Balula
n Graham Win
be used cleverly to balance the horse and rider through the turn. He loves undulation and talked about how the natural features of the land can be used effectively. He also talked about how the designer must be conscious of the needs of the venue owners and other users of the facility – an important aspect at Kurland where we will event in winter and spring but which is used as a world class polo venue during the summer. We all agreed to adopt standard guidelines that will be used countrywide and which the Board of Eventing SA have approved and will publish. These are guidelines and based on the British Eventing guidelines. It was interesting to hear Eric talk about how the guidelines are flexible in the UK when it comes to championship shows and certain kinds of competition and this will certainly happen in SA as well. For ordinary shows, however, the hope is that all course designers and builders will stick to these guidelines. In the afternoon Eric took us all out of the classroom and
onto the polo field and surrounding area. He split us into groups and got us to design fences, using simple stakes to lay out distance and size. The objective was a 1M/1* combination and an 80/90 combination. This was great fun! Each group had a collection of CDs, TD, CC Judges and the odd rider like myself. Amazing how when we described a log at the top of a steep slope with a corner four strides from the foot of it, everyone could visualise the actual jumps with ease. We are all cross country fanatics! At the end of a great day we enjoyed a braai that was kindly provided by Kurland and then sat around the fire at Katarina’s bistro, chatting to Eric and enjoying his stories about the good and the great in the eventing world. In the UK Eric is in charge of training officials for British Eventing, as well as working as an International Course Designer and Technical Director. Somehow he finds time to teach as well and he gave a sensational showjumping clinic to a lucky few at Stellenbosch and District Riding Club before flying home to the UK. Western Province Eventing 2015, including Kurland Horse Trials, is proudly sponsored by Tiletoria and Office Box
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FEI WORLD CUP™ VAULTING FINAL By Daniel Kaiser
Lisa Wild celebrating on the podium
2014/15: BACKFLIP QUEEN LISA WILD ON TOP
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icolas Andreani (FRA), Lisa Wild (AUT), and Gera Marie Grün with Justin van Gerven (GER), celebrated magnificent victories at the FEI World Cup™ Vaulting Final 2014/2015 in Graz (AUT) at the famous horse show “Fest der Pferde” in the sold-out city arena, where 14 athletes from seven countries battled it out. BACKFLIP QUEEN ON TOP The crowd in Graz celebrated the most euphoric triumph in the female competition as Lisa Wild (AUT) won her first FEI World Cup™ Vaulting Final. Billed as the favourite for this Final after winning the Leipzig and Salzburg qualifiers, she convinced the judges with outstanding performances on Robin lunged by Nina Rossin in a gripping Final, with Switzerland’s Simone Jäiser hot on her heels and ultimately finishing second. “As I heard the score, I knew it would be very hard to beat, but I also really didn’t want to finish second”, Wild said. As the scoreboard lit up with her final points - 9,018 - the 19-yearold student, and first vaulter to perform a full somersault on horseback at the FEI World Vaulting Championships in Le Mans (FRA) in 2012, was ecstatic. 70
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Supported by her coach Marissa Jöbstl, and with her whole family in the crowd, she said: “I think I will only come to terms with this in the next few weeks. I will always remember this moment. I knew that it would be possible to win, but all the other vaulters are so brilliant you can never be sure.”Third place for the individual female competition was claimed by last year’s champion Anna Cavallaro (ITA), who finished on 8,631 points with Harley and lunger Nelson Vidoni. AMAZING END FOR FRENCH SUPERSTAR In the male competition, Nicolas Andreani, known as “Nico” to his many fans, secured a happy end to his highly impressive career. After becoming European Champion in 2009 and World Champion in 2012, he secured his third-in-a-row win of FEI World Cup™Vaulting, the most important winter series for the world’s best vaulters. After the first round, the 30-year-old fitness coach from Paris had to give the overnight lead to Germany’s Thomas Brüsewitz, but on the final day he proved he was the man of the FEI World Cup™ 2014/15 series. After his huge point scores in the Salzburg and Paris qualifiers, he posted a massive 8,964 points with Just A Kiss and lunger Marina Joosten Dupon in Graz. For Andreani this was a very emotional win, with his “Einstein” freestyle on his last official outing he will now focus on performing in vaulting shows.
Lisa Wild on Robin, Lunged by Nina Rossin
To hit the jackpot once more was a well-deserved last highlight for an exceptionally talented vaulter. “This is the best thing that can happen for an athlete. Now it is time for the younger ones”, said Andreani after the prize-giving ceremony. Thomas Brüsewitz, vaulting on Danny Boy and lunged by former FEI World Cup™ champion Patric Looser (SUI), finished on 8,726 points, followed by his compatriot and 19-year-old newcomer Julian Wilfling, who scored third on Luino with lunger Alexander Zebrak (8,546). GERMAN DUO The pas-de-deux victory went to Gera Marie Grün and Justin van Gerven from Cologne-based club “Köln-Dünnwald”. The German champions from 2013 toppled off Danny Boy lunged by Patric Looser (SUI) in the first round, but on the last day they showed a very clear and expressive performance and were rewarded by the judges with 7,872 points. The Netherlands’ sister act Carola and Esther Sneekes on Nolan with lunger Marjo Sneekes had to admit defeat on 7,204. Germany’s Pia Engelberty and Torben Jacobs, and Austria’s Stefanie
Grün, Gera Marie & Van Gerven, Justin on Danny Boy 25 lunged by Patric Looser
Millinger and Evelyn Freund, were unable to compete in Graz. Patric Looser, coach of the winning German pas-de-deux, said of the triumph: “Some weeks ago, we said we’d go to Graz to win. Now as the favourites this was a totally different situation, so I’m proud of Gera and Justin and they deserve this moment after a long season.” Looser also praised the organizer of the Fest der Pferde:“In Graz we had perfect conditions.This was fantastic, not just for the vaulters, but for our horses.” FEI WORLD CUP™ VAULTING 2014/2015 FINAL - GRAZ (AUT) RESULTS Male individual: 1. Nicolas Andreani (FRA), 8,964; 2. Thomas Brüsewitz (GER), 8,726; 3. Julian Wilfling (GER), 8,546; Female individual: 1. Lisa Wild (AUT), 9,018; 2. Simone Jäuser (SUI), 9,008; 3. Anna Cavallaro (ITA), 8,631 Pas-de-deux: 1. Gera Marie Grün/Justin van Gerven (GER), 7,872; 2. Carola Sneekes/Esther Sneekes (NED), 7,204;
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he Netherlands’ Edward Gal and Glock’s Undercover clinched victory at the last qualifying leg of the Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage 2014/2015 Western European League on home ground at ‘s-Hertogenbosch. Always favourites to take maximum points after their convincing win in the previous day’s Grand Prix, the pair didn’t disappoint when producing some spectacular work when third-last into the arena. But Gal’s masterful riding skills were fully tested by moments of tension from the 14-yearold gelding with which he finished third at the Reem Acra Final in Lyon, France last season. Runner-up was Germany’s Isabell Werth who nailed a great performance with Don Johnson FRH, and it was an excellent result for the host nation contingent as Hans Peter Minderhoud and Glock’s Flirt lined up third ahead of fellowDutchman Diederik van Silfhout and Arlando NH in fourth spot.
14 Mar 2015
‘S-HERTOGENBOSCH
GAL AND UNDERCOVER REIGN SUPREME ON HOME GROUND
By Louise Parkes
the improvements “Johnny” has made. And her decision to return to the music she used when campaigning her former star Warum Nicht, or Hannes as he was also known, turned out to be something of a triumph. CONTINUES TO SPARKLE Spain’s Morgan Barbancon Mestre didn’t present any real threat when scoring 78.900 with Painted Black, but at 18 years of age this stallion, who was so successful earlier in his career for Dutch legend Anky van Grunsven from The Netherlands, continues to sparkle. And his mark would eventually leave the pair in fifth spot and earn another of those much-sought-after berths in Las Vegas.
However all eyes were on Gal and Glock’s Undercover as they set off with just three left to run, and it was clear from the outset that the Dutchman was not going to have an easy time. Gal knows how to create enormous energy and power in his horses, but containing it is another thing entirely and the 45-year-old ace had to call on all his extensive experience to complete a test that swung from brilliant to extremely tense. UP FOR GRABS With last-minute points still up for grabs it was always Such was the quality of the good work however that the going to be an interesting contest, and Sweden’s Paulinda scoreboard showed 84.925 after they left the arena. Friberg took full advantage of one more opportunity to add to her scoreline when posting 76.750 with her black Diederik van Silfhout produced a happy, balanced and mare, di Lapponia T, just after the judging break. This would compliant performance from Arlando NH for a mark of eventually leave her in eighth place in competition and in 79.925 when second-last to go while Dutch compatriot, Hans overall eleventh spot on the series leaderboard. And, as it Peter Minderhoud, also had plenty of reason to be pleased turned out, it was plenty good enough to book her ticket to with Glock’s Flirt when last to go. The chestnut stallion was the Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage 2014/2015 Final confident and rhythmic throughout his test, and Dutch coach, Wim Ernes, was smiling broadly when a mark of 80.425 went in Las Vegas, USA next month. up on the board for this pair. Patrick van der Meer posted an impressive 77.750 with Uzzo to take the lead just before Werth set off with Don Johnson WINNING TEST who really turned it on as he set a significantly higher target Gal talked afterwards about his winning test during which he score of 81.650. The double FEI World Cup™ Dressage ran into trouble during both of his tempi changes. champion decided some time ago that El Santo would be her choice for Las Vegas, but she also wanted to demonstrate “He (Glock’s Undercover) felt very good at the start but 72
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Winner Edward Gal - Glock’s Undercover. Photo by Arnd Bronkhorst
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1, Glock’s Undercover (Edward Gal) NED 84.925; 2, Don Johnson FRH (Isabell Werth) GER 81.650; 3, Glock’s Flirt (Hans Peter Minderhoud) NED 80.425; 4, Arlando NH (Diederik van Silfhout) NED 79.925; 5, Painted Black (Morgan Barbancon Mestre) ESP 78.900; 6, Uzzo (Patrick van der Meer) NED 77.500; 7, Eres DL (Jeroen Devroe) BEL 76.950; 8, di Lapponia D (Paulinda Friberg) SWE 76.750; 9, Mister X (Inessa Merkulova) RUS 76.675; 10, Qui Vincit Dynamis (Fabienne Lutkemeier) GER 76.000; Facts and Figures: The ninth and last leg of the Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage 2014/2015 Western European League took place today at the Brabanthalle in ‘s-Hertogenbosch,The Netherlands. The competition was won by Dutchman Edward Gal riding the 14-year-old gelding Glock’s Undercover. Runner-up was Germany’s Isabell Werth with Don Johnson FRH while host nation riders filled four of the top six places. The Ground Jury for today’s Freestyle was: at E, Magnus Ringmark SWE; at H, Francis Verbeek van Rooy NED; at C, Ghislain Fouarge NED; at M, Peter Holler GER; at B, Jacques van Daele BEL. Today’s winning partnership finished third at the Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage 2013/2014 Final in Lyon, France last April.
From left to right Hans Peter Minderhoud (NED) - Glock’s Flirt in third place, second placed Isabell Werth (GER) Don Johnson and winner Edward Gal - Glock’s Undercover in the lap of honor. Photo by Arnd Bronkhorst
Result:
Gal previously claimed the FEI World Cup™ Dressage title in 2010 riding the black stallion Totilas and completes the 2014/2015 series at the top of the Western European League leader board. The Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage 2014/2015 Final will be held in Las Vegas, USA from 15 to 19 April.
then we made a little mistake, and at the start of the changes there was another mistake and we lost a little bit there, but for most of it he felt quite good” he said. He said he was expecting a strong test because Undercover did a good warm-up, “but when he came in to the big arena with all those people he was very aware of them. When we started I thought “OK, this is really nice!”, but the mistakes cost us a lot of points even though the percentage marks we got were good”. So now he’s thinking ahead to how his horse will cope with the buzz and excitement of the Thomas & Mack Arena in Las Vegas.
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“It is the way he is to get a little excited, so for me it’s better not to think too much about it!” he said. “I just hope he will grow into it, it felt easier for him but you never know. The difference for me now is that I feel I have enough control and I’m enjoying riding him like this, but I will have to ride my very best there. I know he will be a little bit tense, but when he goes well he is so brilliant, and I will just have to try very hard to help him!” he insisted. MADE THE CUT These results have now decided the top nine riders who have made the cut to the Reem Acra FEI World Cup™
Dressage Final 2014/2015, but it is not the first nine names on the Western European League leaderboard. There can only be three representatives from each nation, and since five of the top nine are from Germany, only Jessica von Bredow-Werndl, Fabienne Lutkemeier and Isabell Werth will fly their nation’s flag while Ulla Salzgeber and Sonke Rothenberger miss out. Gal, Danielle Heijkoop and Minderhoud will represent The Netherlands while Agnete Kirk Thinggaard will be the sole Danish competitor, and the door to the 30th FEI World Cup™ Dressage Final has opened up for Spain’s Morgan Barbancon Mestre and Denmark’s Paulinda Friberg.
Reem Acra FEI World Cup™ Dressage 2014/2015 Standings after round 9 at ‘s-Hertogenbosch NED: 1. 2. 3. 3. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 12. 12.
Edward Gal NED Jessica von Bredow-Werndl GER Fabienne Lutkemeier GER Isabell Werth GER Danielle Heijkoop NED Hans Peter Minderhoud NED Agnete Kirk Thinggaard DEN Ulla Salzgeber GER Sonke Rothenberger GER Morgan Barbancon Mestre ESP Paulinda Friberg SWE Adelinde Cornelissen NED Marcela Krinke Susmelj SUI Tinne Vilhelmson Silfven SWE
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75 74 64 64 60 58 49 48 47 42 39 37 37 37
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By Cindy Timmer
FEI WORLD CUP™ FEI Driving World Cup™ Final Bordeaux 2015 Presentation Sunday February 8th 2015. Boyd EXELL Ijsbrand CHARDON - Christoph SANDMANN - Jerome LENFANT. Photo by Pierre Costabadie
EXELL WRITES HISTORY WITH A RECORD SIXTH WIN
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itle defender Boyd Exell (AUS) wrote history in the dramatic FEI World Cup™ Driving Final in Bordeaux (FRA). Christoph Sandmann (GER) finished second, ahead of Exell’s biggest opponent, IJsbrand Chardon (NED). The Australian won the FEI World Cup™ Driving champion title for the sixth time, once more than the previous record holder Germany’s Michael Freund.
make a correction.This caused his right leader horse to come out and spectacularly jump over the start/finish element.
It was a three-man Winning Round.After Christoph Sandmann and Boyd Exell had driven theirs, IJsbrand Chardon entered the arena with his special indoor team. The Dutch held an advantage of approximately three seconds over Exell and flew through the course, determined to win the coveted title which has eluded him since 2006. Unfortunately however his carriage lost balance in the left turn and Chardon had to
Boyd Exell drove two wonderful clear rounds in full concentration and put the pressure on last man Chardon. Exell was especially pleased with his right wheeler horse, the 25-year-old Carrington Park Ajax affectionately called Junior, who has now been retired from the sport. Junior has been part of Exell’s team at every FEI World Cup™ Driving competition. He thanked the exceptional gelding by
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As Chardon had come too close to the next marathon type obstacle, he could no longer correct the situation and went through the wrong gate. He had no other choice except to retire.
Winner of the FEI Driving World Cup™ Bordeaux 2015 was Boyd Exell Austria, Michelle Kenny and Hugh Scott-Barrett. Photo by Pierre Costabadie
Second FEI Driving World Cup™ Final Bordeaux 2015 was Christoph Sandmann Germany, with Anna Sandmann, and Adolf Fischer. Photo by Pierre Costabadie
escorting him out of the arena, walking beside him while his navigator Michelle drove the team. Christoph Sandmann was very pleased with his second place. The multiple German champion and organiser of a CAI3* at his home in Lähden did not take any risks in the first round and went full speed in the Winning Round, knowing he had nothing to loose since the difference between him and the two leading drivers was too big. His clever tactics resulted in a wonderful third place for the experienced driver, who had not competed in Bordeaux since the series’ first season in 2002. Fredrik Persson (SWE) finished in fourth place, ahead of Koos de Ronde (NED), wildcard driver Sébastien Mourier (FRA), and Georg von Stein (GER).
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3rd FEI Driving World Cup™ Final Bordeaux Sunday February 8th Ijsbrand Chardon from the Netherlands, with Bram Chardon and Martijn Wagner. Photo by Pierre Costabadie
Quotes:
RESULTS AFTER THE FEI WORLD CUP™ DRIVING FINAL 2015 FINAL COMPETITION BORDEAUX (FRA), SUNDAY, 8 FEBRUARY 2015: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
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BOYD EXELL (AUS) 239,41 CHRISTOPH SANDMANN (GER) 267,40 IJSBRAND CHARDON (NED) RET FREDRIK PERSSON (SWE) 155,11 KOOS DE RONDE (NED) 161,63 SEBASTIEN MOURIER (FRA) 172,48 GEORG VON STEIN (GER) 184,62
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Boyd Exell (AUS): “Once we got in our zone, it felt like the old winning wheel again. Because of my injured hand, I had to sharpen the bit settings and I could not play with them as much as I would have liked to. Poker, who is only seven, was a true member of our team today but the highlight for me really was the retirement of Junior. I am so thrilled for him and so happy he finished his career with a win.” Christoph Sandmann (GER): “I am very happy with my second place. I did not compete in the World Cup last season and I had a special indoor team for this season with which I am very pleased.” IJsbrand Chardon (NED): “I was very fast and I believe I was even five seconds ahead of Exell when fate struck again. I feel terrible that this has happened, I really wanted to win. But this is the game and I accept it.”
1 Mar 2015
GOTHENBURG
O
lympic champion, Switzerland’s Steve Guerdat, produced a brilliant performance from the 12-year-old mare, Albfuehren’s Paille, to record his second victory of the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping 2014/2015 Western European League at the final qualifying round in Gothenburg, Sweden. In a desperate battle for those chasing the last remaining points that would earn them a place at the Longines Final in Las Vegas, USA in April, it was Sweden’s Rolf-Goran Bengtsson who lined up second with Casall Ask while Germany’s Marco Kutscher clinched third with Cornet’s Cristallo ahead of The Netherlands’ Jur Vrieling and Zirocco Blue NOP in fourth place.
By Louise Parkes
Stewe Guerdat
GUERDAT GALLOPS TO SECOND LONGINES VICTORY IN GOTHENBURG
Guerdat had no fears about qualification when earning his place in the 13-horse jump-off, as he was already lying third on the league leaderboard as the day began. However his result has boosted him to the top of the Western European League table, demoting young Irishman, Bertram Allen, to second place. Found the key Course designer, Spain’s Santiago Varela, set them a tough first track, but 13 of the 39 starters found the key. The triple combination took its toll, as did the oxer at fence eight and the vertical at fence 11 which was three from home. The final two fences however proved particularly interesting as riders had to negotiate the Longines double, a 1.80m-wide triple bar followed by a vertical, and then take a careful left-bending line to the final oxer which often came up on a difficult stride. It was Italy’s Francesco Franco who led the way against the clock with Banca Popolare Bari Cassandra, but it was third to go, Belgium’s Judy-Ann Melchior and her lovely grey mare, As Cold as Ice Z, who set the early target with the calmest of clear rounds in 47.62 seconds. This time always looked beatable, but Varela’s jump-off track was inviting to those prepared to take more risk, and Switzerland’s Pius Schwizer
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Stewe Guerdat
was almost two seconds faster when faulting at the very last with Toulago when next into the ring. Olympic silver medallist, The Netherlands’ Gerco Schroder, looked set to go well out in front until also lowering the final fence with Glock’s London, but Guerdat and Paille made no mistake. There’s always excitement in the air when the Swiss rider sets off against the clock, and this 12-year-old chestnut mare seems to relish the pressure, lowering her head as she picks up speed and galloping home to really put it up to the rest of them when breaking the beam in 43.13 seconds. Couldn’t better that And try as they would, the remaining seven couldn’t better that. Home-side hero, Rolf-Goran Bengtsson, came closest when next to go with his great stallion Casall Ask who crossed the line in 43.49, and although Kutscher’s turn to the penultimate oxer was superb, the talented 12-year-old 80
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Cristallo was fractionally slower when clear in 43.89 seconds. Vrieling also left all the fences intact as did Sweden’s Henrik von Eckermann (Cantinero), but with their times not challenging for the lead only last man in, Kevin Staut from France, looked like threatening Guerdat. Staut’s great 16-year-old mare, Silvana, has competed at five FEI World Cup™ Jumping finals during her long and sparkling career, but when the penultimate oxer hit the floor they would have to settle for seventh place. After another extraordinary Longines season however, the Frenchman sits third on the Western European League table which he has continuously dominated in recent years, and he is well on the road to Las Vegas. Winning horse Talking about his winning horse, Guerdat said “she arrived
Marco Kutscher
at my stables 10 months ago having already jumped quite successfully with another Swiss rider, Alexandra Fricker. It took a while to get to know her, but she jumped clear in her very first Grand Prix and this is her first very big win with me”.
Make the cut A total of 18 riders qualify for the final from the Western European League, and one to lose out was The Netherlands’ Harrie Smolders who collected 56 points on the US circuit but needed to add some Western European League points if he was to make the cut.
Looking ahead to Las Vegas, he said, “I’m not exactly sure which horse I will take, but Paille would be my first choice because she’s been very good during the entire indoor As defending champion, Germany’s Daniel Deusser is season and I’d like to save Nino for the Championships this automatically qualified even though he has finished in year. Nino would be my second choice for Las Vegas though”. tenth place, while the results for America’s Lucy Davis and Australia’s Edwina Tops-Alexander, who finished fourth and His Longines season has certainly been a spectacular one. sixth respectively in the WEL series, are transferred to their From nine starts he earned a massive 77 points, but it wasn’t own regional leagues. all plain sailing as he only collected points from five events beginning with third place in Oslo (NOR), victory in Helsinki Bengtsson confirmed that he will not travel, so that opens (FIN), third again in Stuttgart (GER) - all with Nino - a 10th the door of opportunity for Belgium’s Jos Verlooy who place with Paille in Verona (ITA) and then his win with the currently lies in 24th position. same chestnut mare. Issue 22 SPORTING HORSE
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R-G Bengtsson
RESULT:
Facts and Figures: •
• • • • • •
• • •
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The Scandinavium Arena in Gothenburg, Sweden hosted the 12th and last qualifying leg of the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping 2014/2015 Western European League today. Course designer was Spain’s Santiago Varela. 13 fences on today’s course, time-allowed 75 seconds in first round. 7 of the top 10 riders in the Longines rankings participated. 13 horse-and-rider combinations qualified for the jump-off, including three from the host nation. Winner was London 2012 Olympic champion Steve Guerdat from Switzerland riding the 12-year-old mare Albfuehren’s Paille. Gothenburg has a long link with the FEI World Cup™ Jumping series. The first Final was staged in the Swedish city in 1979 when Austria’s Hugo Simon came out on top. The FEI World Cup™ Jumping Final has been staged in Gothenburg 13 times during the 37-year history of the event. The Scandinavium Arena in Gothenburg stretches 69 metres in length but only 39 metres in width. 18 riders from the Western European League qualify for the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping 2014/2015 which will take place in Las Vegas, USA from 15-19 April.
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1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10,
Albfuehren’s Paille (Steve Guerdat) SUI 0/0 43.13; Casall Ask (Rolf-Goran Bengtsson) SWE 0/0 43.49; Cornet’s Cristallo (Marco Kutscher) GER 0/0 43.89; VDL Zirocco Blue NOP (Jur Vrieling) NED 0/0 44.38; As Cold as Ice Z (Judy-Ann Melchior) BEL 0/0 47.62; Cantinero (Henrik von Eckermann) 0/0 49.74; Silvana HDC (Kevin Staut) FRA 0/4 43.75; Glock’s London NOP (Gerco Schroder) NED 0/4 44.93; Casello (Douglas Lindelow) SWE 0/4 44.98; Toulago (Pius Schwizer) SUI 0/4 45.98;
Quotes: Steve Guerdat SUI: “This is only my third time to compete in Gothenburg, and both of the other times I was competing in World Cup finals. My last time to be here was in 2013 when I finished second in the Final”. Henrik von Eckermann SWE: “I knew I couldn’t catch Steve but I wanted to do my best for the crowd, in the end I had to stay realistic for my horse and I’m very happy to finish sixth!” Rolf-Goran Bengtsson SWE: “my horse has been very consistent and I’m very proud of him. It would have been very nice to win in front of the home crowd - it was a very good course”. Marco Kutscher GER: “I was lucky in the first round because we touched a few rails but they stayed up! In the jump-off I wanted to do one stride less between the first two fences, but I had to change my mind after we started”.
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