Tyla rides her way to equestrian glory

Albertonian, Tyla Nepgen, received her Protea colours for Equestrian English Mounted Games recently.

IN ACTION: Tyla Nepgen doing her thing in competition.

ALBERTONIAN Tyla Nepgen received her Protea colours for Equestrian English Mounted Games recently.

Tyla, a grade 10 pupil from Alberton High (along with four other members of the 2016 South African u.17 team), competed at the Mounted Games World Team Championships held in County Cork, Ireland, in July. The South African invitation team competed against 21 other countries from around the globe, including USA, Canada, New Zealand and Australia as well as several European countries.

The South African coach came from Australia to do trials across the different provinces and Tyla was the only rider from Gauteng selected for the team. The u.17 SA team placed fourth in the B Final. The team consisted of five riders (of which only two had international experience), competing against other countries which have full time international coaches. Riders from the British Isles and Europe trucked their own ponies so were already at an advantage, whereas the southern Hemisphere riders had two days to practise on their hired mounts.

“Horses are my passion, they mean everything to me. I can tell them everything and they just listen and don’t talk back. Yeah, horses can be a little overwhelming sometimes but that doesn’t mean you have to be scared of them. Think of the people who try to communicate with the wonderful animals and try to get them to dance or jump higher than you are tall, to go around three barrels at 40mph or maybe even faster.

“Imagine what it is like to be one of those riders, who risk their lives, who get badly injured, but the next week they get right back on and go again. When we lose a horse it’s like losing our closest family member.

“I would rather have no friends and a really amazing bond with a horse, than have many friends and no horse. Horses were put on this planet for a reason and I believe even if you hate horses that you should respect that other people are in love with them. My horse has changed my life, without him I would be nothing right now and I am ready to risk everything I have and can give for him,” says the passionate young lady.

“I want to be an inspiration for all the upcoming juniors and send them a message not to give up and that through hard work and dedication anything is possible”, says Tyla.

“I had an incredible 2015 season, and for 2016 I have had so many highlights, but what I can say is I achieved my biggest goal/dream: receiving my Protea colours. I just want to keep on improving. It will be a challenge, but I will continue to work hard, to keep my feet firmly on the ground and to reach for the stars”.

Behind every successful child is not only a brilliant coach but supporting parents. “Thank you Mom and Dad for all you do… and most of all thank you Lord Jesus for I am blessed and highly favoured”, adds Tyla.

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