KAAPSEHOOP – An exciting competition for farriers will form part of the 10th annual Kaapsehoop Wild Horse Festival this year.

It takes place on Saturday and promises a wide variety of activities centred around the wild horses of this picturesque town. Festivities will start at 09:00 and will take place on the plain in the centre of the village.

In South Africa almost anyone can trim horses’ hooves and do shoeing as no licensing is required. At the festival a competition will be held where about 15 farriers’ shoes, that will be manufactured on-site, will be judged according to certain standards.

“The judges will be looking for shoes that are functional and nailable,” said Sean Eggersglusz, one of three resident farriers in the Lowveld. “An event like this is an excellent showcase of the talents of our farriers.”

The honorary guests will be the wild horses themselves. They will benefit from the sales of the white-elephant stall, run by Reinette van Niekerk, the volunteer coordinator for Kaapsehoop Wild Horse Rescue.

Proceeds from the sale will go towards the horses’ medication and vet accounts. A wide variety of second-hand treasures will be on offer. To contribute items to the stall, contact Van Niekerk on 082-333-2073.

One of the special features of the festival is a leisurely meander through the quaint village to see how residents live their dream in this old-fashioned setting.

According to Connie Gerrard, two groups will ramble through six homes in Kaapsehoop where they will be welcomed by owners relating the history of their dwellings.

“I live in a 134-year-old digger’s house in Vogel Street that we lovingly restored and will gladly share the history of my house with those doing the meander,” said Gerrard who is preparing special treats for the picnic basket that can be enjoyed en route. To join, contact Gerrard on 082-745-4756.

Andrea Fourie, organiser of the festival, is looking forward to the Miss Ponytail-competition for the younger beauties. To enter your little princess in the competition phone 084-731-5534.

Also part of the day will be a guest performance by the Stevenson-Hamilton Pipe Band, a guided “Rock Star” walk through the various rock shapes resembling animals and other figures, and an art therapy session. To book a session with the artist you can phone 071-612-4851.

The perfect conclusion to a memorable day will be the cabaret performance by Natascha C at Bohemian Groove Café at 19:00. Tickets cost R120 per person and bookings are essential. To reserve a seat contact 013-734-4545.
Enquiries: Andrea Fourie on 076-764-7625. Stall bookings: Berry on 082-883-6192.