As the dust settles on this year’s Horse of the Year show, Clare Maloney, owner and instructor at Windrush Equestrian Centre in Potchefstroom, beams with pride over the extraordinary achievements of her pupils.

“It was a hard, long, gruelling show, and the elements tested us to the max,” Clare said. “From pouring rain to heat, wind, and cold, everyone at the yard came together like a family. We knuckled down and produced the goods.”

Clare emphasised the dedication required in competitive equestrian sports.

“This job is hard work, at times unforgiving, and it can bring enormous heartbreak. If you want the best results, you’ll need to give it your all. Through guts, sweat, and tears, we reach for the stars because what you put in is what you reap. At Windrush, we strive to educate, nurture, and bring out the best in both horse and rider, quietly chipping away to form a masterpiece.”

The results speak for themselves. Windrush riders returned from Kyalami, where the competition ran from March 3–8, with an impressive collection of top honours.

Franka Kempen and her striking golden pony, Zeuss, claimed the Supreme Working Horse/ Pony of the Year, adding to her haul of medals – gold in General Breed Working Riding, silver in Other Breeds Working Riding, and bronze in SANESA Working Riding.

Clare reflected, “Franka, this is what dreams are made of. You have worked so hard, and it just goes to show that with dedication and commitment, you can achieve so much. To say I am proud is an understatement. My mother was with us that day, and I know she was smiling down, saying, ‘You’ve got this, girls. Keep up the good work.’”

Juané Erasmus and Moonflight, owned by Kevin Nash, also had a standout show. Their achievements included gold in Thoroughbred Working Hunter, Champion Thoroughbred Working Hunter of the Year, and multiple other golds and championships, culminating in Supreme Working Hunter of the Year 2026.

Clare said, “Well done Juané and Moonflight. I am so proud of what you have accomplished with this lovely horse.”

Leah Malan shone with her two horses, Von Ghaku Bellissima and Cellehof Da Vinci. Bellissima, a two-year-old filly, earned gold in General Breed Youngstock and Warmblood classes, with reserve and grand champion titles along the way. Cellehof Da Vinci captured multiple golds, including Warmblood Show Hunter of the Year, and was awarded Supreme Gelding in Hand on the final day.

“An incredible show for these two horses,” Clare said. “Well done, Leah, Bellissima, Vinny, and Dirk. I am so proud of you all.”

Tamara Wallis and Legacy Loreal impressed under five international judges, collecting silver and bronze in adult working riding and show classes.

Clare praised, “Well done, Tamara and Loreal. Very proud of you both.”

Young riders also made their mark.

Daniel Janse van Rensburg and Hazel finished second in their show jumping class, while Bianca Janse van Rensburg and Agbata Kordaat earned a brilliant fourth in the Boerperd division.

Clare added, “Windrush is so very proud of you all.” Reflecting on the week’s achievements, Clare concluded, “Three Supreme Champions on the trot is no easy feat. But we did it. Thank you to all our riders for your love, support, and commitment. You have made Windrush Equestrian Centre shine at Horse of the Year.”