Young equestrian star makes bold moves with new pony and coaches
After changing ponies and coaches, Mackenzie Nicholls is proving that change can be the start of something amazing.
Brackendowns’ equestrian prodigy, Mackenzie Nicholls, has kicked off the year with big moves and even bigger dreams.
At just nine-years-old, the home-schooled rider has already shown a level of ambition and resilience well beyond her years – making waves not just with her results, but with her willingness to embrace change.
This year, Mackenzie made a bold switch: she changed both her coach and her pony, stepping into a whole new environment at Jumangi Equestrian Centre.
Known for its high-performance training, Jumangi is now home to the young star, where she’s being guided by two exceptional coaches, Monique Erasmus and Erin Price.
Despite her recent move, Mackenzie hasn’t missed a beat.
Together with her new pony, Cornerstones Tiekie Draai, a partnership still in its early stages, she already clinched first place in her jumping class at SANESA Q1, held at Maple Ridge in March.
The duo now sets their sights on the Toyota Easter Festival at Kyalami, which takes place from April 15 to 21.
“This marks the first of Mackenzie’s big goals for the year, and all signs point to an exciting road ahead,” said her mother, Taryn Nicholls.
Her journey began early and at just two years old, Mackenzie was already in the saddle at Bambi Stables.
Since then, she’s built an impressive resume.
Last year, she represented Sedibeng at the SANESA national championships, qualified in six disciplines, and took home a second-place finish in jumping with her previous pony, Kristy.
Her trophy cabinet also includes the 2024 top primary school rider award for Sedibeng, along with regional colours in eight disciplines and Gauteng colours for the core league.
Grateful for the support behind her success, Mackenzie credits her coaches, family, and especially Amber Cadle for playing a pivotal role in her 2025 season.
“I’m extremely grateful to Amber for her help and for giving me the opportunity to compete on her very special pony, Tiekie,” she shared.
With an unwavering spirit, a strong support system, and a passion that continues to grow, Mackenzie is not just chasing her dreams—she’s riding full speed toward them.
