Excitement jumps up in Midrand

MIDRAND – Smiles abound as riders complete a cross country course for the first time.

January 25, 2018

Nicholas Zaal 1 minute read

Janet Martin and her horse Casual MSS clear a cross country jump at the Eventing Mini Series. Photo: Nicholas Zaal

The Eventing Mini Series at Fourways Riding Centre catered for experienced and new riders on a day of fun and smiles in cool weather.

A whopping 109 riders between the ages of six and 60 turned up.

For many, this was their first official event ever, while category separation and some higher jumps still challenged the experienced riders.

Show jumping is always popular in eventing, but the four different cross country courses, ranging from 15 to 20 jumps and 1,1km to 1,8km, were the main attractions on the day.

Ponds, logs, tyres, barrels and even a miniature house made up exciting obstacles for the riders to wade through or jump over. Many of the less-experienced horses were intimidated by these real-looking obstacles, but it was nothing the marshals could not help with.

Often a marshal would ride up on their horse and complete the obstacle in sight of the frightened horse, leading to it following. But when a horse was truly unnerved, the obstacle could be skipped.

“This was my first cross country show,” said an excited Zara Pappalardo (7), who conquered every single obstacle with her little pony, Boesman, and her parents holding the lead.

“It was so fun. The best part was jumping over the ditch.”

Experienced instructor, Shane Rorke came to watch the show with it in mind to bring his students next time.

“It has been a brilliant show with nice, fun courses – and a good mixture between the easy and difficult jumps,” he said. “It has definitely encouraged people to keep riding.”

Also full of praise for the event was Althea Fordyce, the director of Razrmed, the main sponsor.

“Shows like this build confidence in riders and develop their skills,” she said.