Family of equestrians compete at the Toyota World Cup Qualifier
Local equestrian Lorette Knowles-Taylor competed with her husband and daughter at the Toyota World Cup Qualifier. She shared her experience competing with family members, and talked about her top horse, Oripeau d'Emma.
Lorette Knowles-Taylor recently geared up for the highly anticipated Toyota World Cup Qualifier, a fiercely fought four-day competition that pushed riders and their steeds to their limits.
The event, which was open to the public with free entry, promised excellence, energy, and entertainment, with all three arenas expected to be at full capacity.
Competing against her husband and daughter in the qualifier, Knowles-Taylor revealed that their competitive spirits took centre stage in the jump-off. “Barry and I are super competitive, and generally forget we are husband and wife in a jump off. We are supportive competitors when we jump off against each other.”
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Having her daughter, Ash, compete alongside her was a dream come true. “It’s definitely special to have my daughter compete against me. It’s a horse mom’s dream come true when you can share your horse passion with your child.”
One of Knowles-Taylor’s top horses was Oripeau d’Emma, a classy boy that she’s taken the time to understand and partner with perfectly. “I’ve taken loads of time with him, figuring what’s best for our partnership in the way of his shoeing and his bitting.”
The pair enjoyed success in various classes, including the recent Toyota Easter Festival.
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The Toyota World Cup Qualifier featured a challenging course designed by renowned course designer Frank Rothenberger, who has built courses for numerous high-profile events, including the Olympic Games and world championships.
The competition tested the skills of the top riders, including Kyalami resident Ronnie Healy, who was leading the Year of the Legend standings at the time.
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With huge prizes on offer, including a brand new Toyota Hilux D/C Legend for the overall winner, the competition was set to be fierce.
Heather Mpofu, Kyalami Park Club event director, said: “We have exceptional course builders, world-class areas, fantastic sponsors, free entrance, and sound sportsmanship in place. All of these ingredients promise a show that will be enjoyed by all who attend, on horseback or on foot.”
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