No horsing around ahead of the SA Derby

She’s also in top form on the back of her win at the recent 2017 Revil Stables Reonet FEI World Cup qualifier riding her horse Sunny Park Stables Elpaso.

Benonian equestrian star Nicola Sime-Riley said that all her horses will be fit, fresh and keen ahead of the Cell C 2017 South African Derby at Kyalami Park at the main event on October 1.

The derby runs from September 27 to October 1.

“I aim to have my horses, Sunny Park Stables Elpaso (El), as well as Fulvic Connoisseur (Con) in the main derby, then Reach for Gold in the 1.40m derby and Insaghi in the 1.35m derby.

“I don’t work them too hard,” she added.

“I just keep them working normally as I would for any other show.

“Both derby horses are such triers, they give me their all.

“They are a little feisty at the derby and I think they love it.

“Con is always keen but he is a little less of a risk taker so I need to ride him a little harder than El. Elpaso is just game for anything she puts in front of him.

She said both horses put their whole heart into what she asks from them.

When asked what jumps scare her, the mom of two says that balance is key.

“To tell you the truth, none of the jumps scare me, but the jump I try to give my best horses the best ride to is the plank which comes two strides after the bank.

She tries not to override it and to stay in the best balance possible.

She says fitness is imperative too.

She goes to the biokineticist once a week and then trains on her own as often as she can.

“In terms of nerves, I find that I am quite chilled on the day.

“It’s just so amazing what these animals do for us. So I try to enjoy every moment.

She continued to say the vibe of the show is awesome and she thoroughly enjoys herself.

“When it comes to a possible winner, like I say for every show: ‘It’s the best horse and rider combination on the day.

“Anyone can take it.”

The Cell C South African Derby is the toughest show-jumping challenge and the most sought after title on the equestrian calendar.

The 18 obstacle, 1 200m course is only ever won by the horse and rider combination that is the fittest, the most focused and the most on form on the day.

Attended by over 5 000 people, this event sees the who’s who of the fashion and riding worlds gather for a day of welcoming hospitality, family fun and equine excellence.

For more information, contact 011 036 3320.

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