The eighth annual Dunblane Influx Energy Derby took place on October 13, attracting top equestrian talent competing for prestigious honours.
Kayla Holzapfel, who competes in the 1.20m division, shared her experiences with the Kempton Express.
“This is my fifth time competing at the derby and my third with my current horse, Vilankulos.
“I fell in love with horses at a young age and knew I wanted to be a jockey, despite everyone thinking it was just a phase,” she said.
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Holzapfel emphasised the challenges of horse riding, stating, “You don’t just get on and sit; you need to know how to communicate and make the horse do what you want.”
Dunblane Derby debutant Emile Egen from Mayerton, also competing in the 1.20m division, expressed his excitement about participating for the first time.
Egen runs his own equestrian centre, and his horse, AfriGuard Capital Capella, was also making its derby debut.
“We’ve practiced the derby obstacles, and I believe I have a really good horse.
“If I ride well and she performs well, we have a strong shot at going all the way,” he added.
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Egen encouraged young people involved in the sport, saying, “It’s a very humbling experience.
“It teaches you humility because it’s not a team sport, you can’t rely on others for a win.
“When you have an off day, you must be mature enough to handle it and move forward.”
Veteran rider Nicola Sime-Riley was also present at the derby, riding young horses to nurture their skills and provide them with valuable experience.
Widely regarded as one of the best in the sport, she has produced numerous horses that have reached top levels and has won every major title, including five President’s Cup wins, two SA Championships, and two Outdoor Grand Prix victories.
“As a rider, the higher you go, the less room there is for error. You need to be accurate, of sound mind, and physically fit,” she advised.
The winners of the 2024 Dunblane Influx Energy Derby in the 1.20m/1.30m division were Jason Philips in first place, Bronwyn Tomlinson in second, and Kayla Holzapfel in third.
