Young equestrian and dancer Mackenzie Nicholls celebrates standout 2025 season
Brackendowns’ young star Mackenzie Nicholls wrapped up 2025 with an outstanding year, claiming top honours in equestrian competitions and on the dance stage through dedication, talent and consistent excellence.
Brackendowns’ talented young rider and dancer, Mackenzie Nicholls, closed out 2025 with an exceptional year marked by major achievements in both equestrian sport and dance.
The competitive riding season began at the Toyota Easter Festival at Kyalami Park Club in April last year, where Mackenzie partnered with Cornerstones Tiekie Draai at their first major graded event together.
Despite the pressure of high-level competition, the pair performed consistently, earning third place and two fourths.
In July, Mackenzie progressed to the Youth Championships at KPC, where she was selected for the Gauteng 60cm showjumping team.
She finished fourth individually, while the Gauteng team secured first place in the team competition.
Spring brought further success at the Rotoflo Youth Extravaganza Spring Fair held at Maple Ridge in September.
Competing against a strong field, Mackenzie and Tiekie Draai won three of the four classes they entered.
Although the championship class was cancelled due to rain, Mackenzie was awarded the Victor Ludorum prize, highlighting her overall performance at the event.
Throughout the year, the pair also competed at SANESA qualifiers and finals, earning selection to two A teams for the SANESA Nationals, held in October at KPC.
At the national championships, Mackenzie placed third individually, while the Gauteng team finished first overall.
Mackenzie’s successful season was supported by her coach, Monique Erasmus, her mentor and inspiration, Amber Cadle, and her trusted equine partner, Cornerstones Tiekie Draai.
She also acknowledged the continued support of Daniel and Tammy Stone, as well as the wider team at Jumangi’s Equestrian Centre.
In addition to her equestrian achievements, Mackenzie also excelled in dance during 2025.
At the Essence of Dance Eisteddfod, held in October, she performed in 13 dances, winning best amateur tap dancer (aged nine and under), placing runner-up in amateur modern (aged nine and under), and receiving the junior most pleasing personality trophy.
She achieved high distinctions in her Tap and Hip Hop AIDT examinations in November.
As the new year begins, Mackenzie reflects on a remarkable 2025 season that showcased her dedication, versatility and consistent excellence across both sport and the performing arts.
