Meet the centre’s next carriage superstar
KYALAMI – Conversano Eles is described by rider Jhan-Mari van den Berg as a distinct and lovable character.
The South African Lipizzaners introduce Conversano Eles this week.
Conversano Eles is described by rider Jhan-Mari van den Berg as a distinct and lovable character.”Compared to many of his brothers, he is quite a tall horse; he towers over them in the arena during young stallions’ practices,” said Van den Berg.
“He is in training to follow in the footsteps of his legendary father, Conversano Cintra, to become the centre’s next carriage superstar,” said Van den Berg, adding that Conversano Eles is fondly referred to as the ‘big friendly giant’ for his stature and curious nature.
Current rider Tessa Hellman described him as a true ‘diamond in the rough’. “He is more than a little ADD, but he is also honest and incredibly loving. He is not always the bravest horse, but he has a heart of gold. His love for other animals, great and small, is legendary and his absolute favourite visitors are the puppies in training from the South African Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind,” she said.
Hellman added that Conversano Eles gives her the gift of inner peace and calm when riding. “Together we have tested new waters, we have failed, and we have succeeded.”
He is a force to be reckoned with and one of the greatest lights of my life.”
Conversano Eles is proudly sponsored by Shannon Delpeche.During lockdown, the Lipizzaners have cancelled their weekly performances, resulting in a large drop in funding to feed the stallions.
Members of the public are encouraged to support the South African Lipizzaners, based in Kyalami, in any way they can during lockdown.
Visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/gina-boxley?utm_id=1&utm_term=bA9xg2jxk to find out more.
Photo: Supplied
