Sanka Belcher (17) who has been riding horses since the age of one said horse riding was not as easy as it looked.
Belcher was speaking at a show held by the Irene Midrand branch of the South African Pony Club on 26 May to raise funds for her to compete in an event in Zimbabwe. She needs about R7 000 to attend the show on 14 and 15 July. The club is a non-profit organisation that teaches children horsemanship.
She was chosen to compete in the show after attaining outstanding horse riding results. “Horse riding is the most relaxing sport and my favourite hobby. It is not as easy as it looks. It requires a lot of dedication and practise,” she said.
At the show, children will take part in show jumping, working riding, eventing and dressage. Sanka learnt the sport from her parents who were both horse riders. “They have since left the sport because it is expensive. I love the relationship established between rider and the horse.
Sanka, in Grade 11 at Cornwell College has made her mark in the sport. Last year, she won the Fédération Equestre Internationale World Championships for Young Riders and Juniors competition. “I am grateful to everyone that came out to support the fundraiser and those who contributed. I am most grateful to my parents who have helped all the way in the sport.”
Candice Gilford of the South African Pony Club said, “She [Sanka] is an awesome role model to the younger children.”
Sanka advised aspirant riders to join the sport only if they were passionate about it.
