Show jumpers showcase talent and dedication
Equestrian sport
The Old Mutual development programme will have follow-up events in May and August.
The Old Mutual development show jumping event held at Auas View Stables in Windhoek delivered a thrilling spectacle over the weekend. Riders from various levels showcased their skills in dressage classes, starting from the beginner levels up to elementary. The riders performed exceptionally well, demonstrating their growing experience and dedication to the sport.
The show jumping event began with the 60ccm class, where riders were challenged to complete the obstacle course within a specified time limit. As the competition progressed, the difficulty level increased with obstacles reaching up to 1 metre. Riders and their horses were required to navigate the course at high speeds, showcasing their precision and agility.
A former judge at the event, Tatjana Mills, said the Old Mutual development show jumping event not only provided an opportunity for riders to compete, but also promote the growth and development of the sport in Namibia.
The support from sponsors like Old Mutual has helped in nurturing the talents of young riders and elevating the level of competition in the country, she said.
The programme aims to provide young riders with valuable experience and coaching to help them reach their full potential in the equestrian world.
Mills stated that the programme is designed to give riders the opportunity to compete at a high level and gain exposure to international competition.
“The two remaining legs of the programme, scheduled for May and August, will continue to push riders to excel in both dressage and show jumping,” she added.
Participants from both junior and senior categories impressed the spectators with their performances. The event was a perfect platform for riders to test their abilities and improve their skills in a competitive environment. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and enthusiasm as riders and their horses gave their best to conquer the challenging courses.
A member of the organizing committee, Alida Reimer expressed her gratitude to Old Mutual for their immense support.
“I would love to give big thanks to Old Mutual for their commitment to supporting the sport for athletes to excel both at local international level. We as the organizing committee and the participants largely appreciate your effort,” Reimer said.
The list of winners of the show jumping includes:
Mira Meyer – Level 1 & 2
Dominique Voigts – Level 1 & 2
Samia Canto – Level 1 & 2
Sheila Hongonekua – Level 1
Kaitlyn Lourens – Level 2
60 cm welcoming stakes, closest to ideal time: Chantell Prinsloo (on Losberg Elvis): 101.08 seconds.
70 cm welcoming stakes, closest to ideal time: Susanne Borg (on Cerumbim Callisco’s Sky) 102.44 seconds.
80 cm welcoming stakes, fastest time: Milan Steyl (on Rosefield Cryst) 67.79 seconds.
90 cm welcoming stakes, fastest time: Arimda Duvenhage / (on Cavalier’s Rock) 61.26 seconds.
Arinda Duvenhage (on Cavalier’s Rock) had the quickest time for the 1 metre welcome stakes at 89.09 seconds.
DRESSAGE CATEGORY
Welcome Test Children – Sheila Hongonekua (on Pony Perfection Flinch) 60.00%.
Pony Riders Preliminary – Mine Lourens (on Captain Jack Sparrow CCS) 66.88%.
Pony Riders Novice – Zoe Schmidt (on Klein Hamakari’s) 65.25%.
Pony Riders Elementary – Helge von Ditfurth (on Claratal Venezia) 66.09%.
Pony Riders Freestyle Novice – Emily Le Roux (on Capital Uzzi) 64.50%.
Welcome Test Adults – Susanne Borg (on Bodenhausen Aurora) 80.00%.
Preliminary Junior & Senior – Claudia Mack (on Equimaster Davetsaub Mi Amor) 68.26%.
Novice Junior & Adults – Anuschka von Prittwitz (on Curtain Call) 72.86%.
Elementary Junior & Adults – Anuschka von Prittwitz (on Curtain Call) 68.96%.
Preliminary freestyle Junior & Adults – Irene Ham (on Seeis Loucure) 64.13%.
Elementary Freestyle – Rachel Grace Frankle (on Naepoliatana Theodora) 72.50%.