Eventing riders stay one jump ahead

Cross-country obstacles resembling logs, bushes and even fish in all shapes and sizes were made available to riders and their horses at Fourways Riding Centre’s Eventing Open Day.

The cross-country course in Timsrand was made available throughout 26 October ahead of the centre’s eventing show on 10 November. It was as much an opportunity for the horses as the riders to pit themselves against these unusual obstacles on uneven ground, that can test the nerves far more than standard arena jumps.

“Today is all about riders and horses testing themselves,” said centre owner, Marion Clough.

She added that the Stepping Stones League will perform a similar function but in a bigger way, starting from January. “We will have seven shows and some clinics for the league next year. Riders will be from as young as four or five years old all the way to their 80s.”

The league will feature colour classes for height categories at the ungraded shows, where riders accumulate points at the shows and can progress into tougher classes.

Disciplines will include dressage, eventing, showjumping, equitation and showing. “The aim for the Stepping Stones League is to produce riders of a better standard and for riders and horses to learn. It has a modern approach and the community will have lots of fun with it.”

The concept for the league was imparted by international eventing rider and British Eventing accredited coach, Sam York, after she conducted a clinic at Fourways Riding Centre. A banquet and awards evening will be held for the league at the end of next year.

Clough said there are still sponsorship opportunities for businesses or individuals for the rosettes, certificates and trophies that will be awarded. The first clinic will be held on 7 January next year and the first show will be on 7 and 8 February.

Details: Fourways Riding Centre riding@global.co.za; 083 265 8278.

Related article:

https://www.citizen.co.za/midrand-reporter/222794/its-dressage-for-days-at-fourways-riding-centre/