Overcoming any obstacle
KYALAMI – Kelci Cronje showed off some true skill when she competed in the FEI Group IX Inter Africa Cup in Namibia on an unfamiliar horse.
Show jumper Kelci Cronje who attends Beaulieu College, proved that her riding skills are a mark above the rest when she had to ride an unfamiliar horse during the Fédération Equestrian Internationale (FEI) Group IX Inter Africa Cup.
The competition was hosted from 10 until 13 May at the Sandune Lodge in Gobabis, Namibia, and saw participants from across the continent, including from Angola, South Africa, Ethiopia, Malawi and Zimbabwe compete. Riders could compete individually or in a team in showjumping, dressage and endurance riding.
“Kelci’s own horse was not able to be quarantined for as long as was necessary [to be allowed into Namibia], so she had to find a horse in Namibia to ride,” said Lynette Gray, the marketing and admissions manager for Beaulieu College.
“She only had two days with the new horse, named Kiara, before they had to compete together.”
The use of Kiara was organised by Cronje’s father, and the animal had to be transported about 50km to get to the competition, which meant less time for rider and horse to learn to work together.
“But her doing that just shows her skills,” added Gray.
“Kelci is so spirited and really showed how determined she was to succeed.”
Due to her hard work and skill during the competition, Cronje was awarded her South African Colours in showjumping by Wessels Strauss of the South African Equestrian Federation. She was also the winner of the Speed Championship class at the event.
“We at Beaulieu College are ecstatic with what Kelci achieved at the competition.”
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