Experiencing eventing
TIMSRAND – Up-and-coming riders get a feel for eventing at Fourways Riding Centre.
Eventing in Gauteng is benefitting immensely from the Eventing Mini Series at Fourways Riding Centre, Timsrand.
Riders came from all over Gauteng to participate in showjumping and cross-country during the second leg of the series on 9 February. The series includes heights of 50cm to 80cm, and in its second year already has a reputation of helping introduce new and upcoming riders (whether young or old) to eventing.
During the second leg of the series, riders were given a chance to take their horses past the various intimidating obstacles on the cross-country circuit before they had to ride it. This was to give the horses (and riders) fair warning of the leafy, watery or high-up obstacles and jumps they would face.
When the time to ride the circuit came and there were still horses too afraid to make some of the jumps, a lead rider would ask the rider to follow them and do the obstacle first. Once seeing what was meant to be done, every horse would obey to the letter.
On the edge of the cross-country course, families, friends and fellow riders cheered on loudly. This while enjoying picnics in the shade.
“It’s a great learning session for not just the riders, but the horses too,” said Marion Clough, the centre’s owner.
She explained that not many riders have regular opportunities to jump their horses over tricky jumps, or to walk through water puddles.
“Seeing people come through the finish and being proud of what they achieved was great to watch. As a community, we are working together to help each other, which is what made it a great day.”
The third leg of the series will be held on 2 March, and the final leg on 11 April, both at Fourways Riding Centre.
Clough added that the centre will also hold a high-grade dressage show on 16 February, followed by an invitational show on its new R500 000 CLOPF® Fibre surface arena on 23 and 24 February.
Related article:
https://www.citizen.co.za/midrand-reporter/206719/riders-perfect-nitty-gritty-before-valentines-show/
https://www.citizen.co.za/midrand-reporter/205864/midrand-striders-seeks-to-grow-its-family/
