Lowveld schools did not put a foot wrong at the #SANESA Mpumalanga Championships
Riders from the participating schools did the region proud through measured performances and effective interaction with their horses.
The windy conditions at Badplaas, A Forever Resort over the weekend did nothing to deter showjumpers and their equine companions from putting in their best performances over the weekend. The South African National Equestrian Schools Association (SANESA) hosted this year’s Mpumalanga Championships and the fourth SANESA qualifier in dressage, showjumping, equitation and show, inviting riders representing a number of schools.
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There was a strong showing of Lowveld schools represented on the showjumping course at primary and high school levels. Among the primary schools were Curro, Laeveld, Nelspruit and Bergland, while Hoërskool Nelspruit and Rob Ferreira represented the high schools. The riders in these different classes flew the Lowveld flag high, despite the dusty and windy weather conditions.
There were a few spills here and there as a few horses obstinately refused to negotiate the obstacles on the field, but there were no serious injuries incurred. Equestrian sports require that there be a natural affinity between rider and horse and that the communication between the two be smooth. This allows for a seemingly faultless performance from the horse.
There were murmurs of excitement from the spectators each time the horses’ hooves sailed over verticals, square oxes and fences. The equestrian event proceeded smoothly over the weekend, with a number of riders excelling and proudly receiving their sashes and rosettes in recognition of their outstanding performances.
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Riders in the primary school and adult competitions showed the calibre of riding in the province, with exceptional performances in both classes.The weekend’s programme concluded with competitors taking on the 20×60 sand arenas in the morning before heading over to the grass arena in the final phase. Riders from the participating schools did the region proud through measured performances and effective interaction with their horses.
To view the results of the weekend’s equestrian action, visit www.sanesa.co.za.
