POLOKWANE – The 334 Grand Prix Show at The Ranch Resort is set to be a spectacular event where showjumping becomes a destination.

Taking place from October 8 to 11, the event will feature arenas and courses built to international standards, world-class jumping and the warm bushveld experience The Ranch Resort is known for.

An experience no other venue can offer

Brett Webber, an FEI course designer, said strong sponsorship would ensure a superb competition, with plenty for spectators to enjoy.

“The Ranch offers an experience that no other venue in South Africa can offer; it is a holiday destination with activities such as game drives, golf, swimming, good restaurants and more,” he said.

“Competitors can come enjoy an amazing showjumping show and relax at the pool in the afternoon. The riders come to compete, but everyone comes for the bush experience.”

Top-level competition

Webber said the competition would be of the highest level, with well-known riders travelling from as far as KwaZulu-Natal to compete.

“The Ranch has become an equestrian destination for many disciplines such as showjumping, dressage, showing, endurance and eventing. Being a central venue in Limpopo and easily accessible from the highway, we all benefit from the venue and what it offers.”

He said the arenas were top quality, while the stabling and other facilities were favourable. Limpopo has a small equestrian community, he added, but The Ranch’s generous support had helped grow the sport in the province.

Years of training

“To compete successfully at Grand Prix level, it takes years and years of training for both rider and horse. Finding a partner, horse or rider, that you will trust to jump over huge jumps is important.”

Among the more unusual challenges competitors may face are giraffes.

“It is a bit of a joke, but the whole show does come to a standstill when the giraffe walks past. Long hot days and horses that aren’t used to the vast expanses which The Ranch offers might also be challenging,” Webber said.

International course designer involved

Internationally qualified FEI 3 course designer Kevin Spratley, from Cape Town, is also involved in designing the Grand Prix course.

“The SASJ Grand Prix series requires that some of the jumps are built slightly higher than at regular events, so riders and horses are tested and prepared for the next level of competition,” he said.

Event details

The event is open to the public, with classes:

• Thursday: 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
• Remaining days: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Catering and a cash bar will be available at the arena.

Webber said showjumping may look easy to outsiders, but it requires trust and commitment from both horse and rider.

“Come and join in on the excitement of world-class showjumping, the highs of a speedy clear round or the lows when knocking a pole.”

For more information contact Brett Webber on 079 830 0660.