Morganna and Zuri; an inseparable duo

We all know a man’s best friend is their dog, well, for 11-year-old Morganna Hartzenberg her best friend is her black and white leopard spotted Appaloosa named Zuri.

Morganna’s mother, Valerie, has always had a love for horses and horseback riding.

“I promised Morganna that when she turns 12 we will buy her a horse,” Valerie explained that she got her first horse when she was 12 and this was how she decided on the age.

“As luck would have it [when Morganna was seven years old], my previous trainer contacted me about a young horse that was available to purchase and would be able to live on their farm until Morganna was ready to take on the responsibility of a horse,” she added.

When Valerie and Morganna arrived at the farm and looked at the young horse two things were apparent, ‘we noticed right away that she was very thin and small – she was about three years old at that stage’.

“When I met her I knew I wanted her to be my horse, she followed me around like a puppy,” added Morganna.

It was almost like Zuri chose Morganna and not the other way around. As the years passed Zuri put on some healthy weight and tried her luck with some cheeky mannerisms.

“About two years ago we moved Zuri to the Honeydew Equestrian Centre and since then Martinique [van der Westhuizen] has been working with Zuri. I cannot explain how big of a positive impact she has had on Zuri.”

The bond between a horse and its rider is unfathomable if you have not experienced it yourself. Just observing the interactions between the pair it is clear to see the comfort Morganna brings to Zuri and vice versa. The pair still have a long way to go and many adventures to partake in.

When asked what direction Morganna wants to take her riding she looked towards Zuri and smiled, ‘it depends on what Zuri wants to do’.

“I think Morganna and Zuri have a good shot at endurance racing,” added Valerie, “but they do have their whole career in front of them, I know that whatever they choose they will excel at.”