Taylor-made for showjumping
JOBURG - Chartwell resident and seasoned showjumper Barry Taylor shares his showjumping experience.
Taylor, who is part of Team Nissan showjumping said, “My hopes are to do well in the coming World Cups and the National Championship as well as the South African Grand Prix and South African Derby.”
Taylor was born into an equestrian showjumping family and started riding at the age of four and competing at six.
“I could not have it any better,” Taylor said.
“My journey thus far as a showjumper has been amazing as I have represented my country and competed all over the world. I also have an amazing life working with horses and training aspiring riders.”
Between the age of 12 and 17, he competed as a junior representing both Orange Free State and Northern Cape. At age 14, he rode for the South African Team in Rhodesia [now Zimbabwe] where he also won the Rhodesian Grand Prix. As an adult, he held Orange Free State and Northern Cape, Defence Force and Transvaal Colours.
Taylor is married to experienced showjumper, Lorette Knowles-Taylor.
“My advice to young aspiring riders is never give up trying. You will always lose more than you win but if you get up and work harder every day there is no better sport, and never forget you are working with an animal not a machine,” he quipped.
Taylor is currently participating in the 1.40m classes with his top horse, Counter Attack. His goal is to try and win another derby before he retires.
Some of his wins include the South African Grand Prix (five times), the FEI World Cup Series in 1999 and 2004, the Mercedes Benz Grand Prix and the Mercedes Benz Riders Championship.
“Riding is a feeling, you cannot teach it – but you can always train someone to be better through hard work and the right horse.”
Details: www.farnhamstables.co.za
