Volunteer unpacks her experience at the birth of a Lipizzaner mare
KYALAMI – The youngest filly, Etela, was born on 7 September last year.
The South African Lipizzaners, located in Kyalami, would like to showcase their beautiful Lipizzaner mares this week.
Volunteer Gina Boxley explained that although the mares seem to take a back seat, they are just as important as the stallions.”Without them, we would not be able to keep the six bloodlines we are so proud to have in this country alive. They are Conversano, Favory, Maestoso, Neapolitano, Pluto and Siglavy,” she explained.
Boxley said that the mares are currently housed on a stud farm in Clarens as the current property in Kyalami is not large enough to keep all the Lipizzaners together.”It breaks our heart not to have them with us. But they are being well cared for and in a breeding environment that will keep them safe and protected until we are able to purchase our own home.”
The youngest filly, Etela, was born on 7 September last year. Her mother Ella’s bloodline is Pluto, sired by Pluto Odaliska. Ella was born on 23 November 2011.Boxley, who was present for Etela’s birth, said, “To say that it was such a privilege to share this special moment is anyone’s dream opportunity.”She is strong and gorgeous and has the longest legs I have ever seen on a filly. I am sure she would win the Durban July if she was given the chance.”
Boxely said that Etela is now the next generation of the Pluto bloodline to breed with.Ella is proudly sponsored by Mary Grove from the United Kingdom. The South African Lipizzaners are still looking for a sponsor for her gorgeous filly, Etela.
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.
