Milton Kgole’s rise against all odds as a course designer is a story of equestrian excellence

Milton Kgole is rising through the ranks. The visionary level two course builder and grounds manager at Kyalami Park Club is defying expectations and shattering glass ceilings.

From humble beginnings to national recognition, Kgole’s dedication and expertise have propelled him to the forefront of South Africa’s equestrian scene.

Read more: Fourways equestrian goes from pony rider to championship

He said he fell in love with the sport whilst working as a groundsman for one of Africa’s biggest equestrian venues, and has always allowed himself to learn from other course designers.

He is now one of the two highest qualified black course designers in the country, and the first to have been qualified.

Having not ridden before, one can only imagine the challenges he has had to overcome to get his courses right, but fortunately, Kate Launder was always, and is still, there to offer support and guidance when he needs it.

“When I started working at the club, as ground staff, where we would help different course designers build, my interest in the course started. My passion lies in seeing horses jumping the different courses.”

Kgole has built courses for showjumping, equitation, working hunters, and dressage prix caprilli. “I am sure most of our riders have ridden his courses at a show, or during an arena practice booking,” said Toyota SA Championship event director Heather Mopfu.

Earlier this month, Kgole officially built his first FEI Show: The Children’s FEI International Classics.

Also read: Teen equestrian shines in Namibia

“To say I couldn’t be prouder is an understatement, as getting to this point in his career has been a lot of hard work, time, and dedication. All the times he set up courses for the higher course builders who couldn’t make the setup days has finally paid off,” said Mopfu.

Kgole said, as he basks in the glory of his success, that he wants to see himself growing as a course designer beyond his current level. He said building his first FEI show was his biggest challenge but has worked his way around it to overcome it.

“I was so nervous and excited at the same time. When you build a FEI show, it must be exactly what it is on the course plan. Kate Launder played a very big role in my career. I first started assisting her at her shows, and she started believing in me and put me on the panel. She saw that I can do with course designing and then began to teach me everything that I needed to know.”

The sky is the limit for Kgole, as he says he to sees himself becoming a FEI level four course designer, building for the Olympics one day.

Follow us on our Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok pages. Join our WhatsApp group for any story ideas you may have.

Related article: Top riders gear up for equestrian extravaganza