A life changing opportunity for Katie

A life-changing honour which most young athletes wish for has finally landed in Katie Cochran’s hands.

Her hard work and dedication shone brightly, and she has been selected to represent South Africa at the 2025 FEI Group IX Inter Africa Showjumping Team Competition.

The Brescia House School learner is filled with a great sense of pride for been selected as she will be not only competing for herself but for the country as well.

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This prestigious event is taking place at the Kyalami Equestrian Park from April 16 to 21.

Katie said, “I could not be more proud or grateful to my team and, of course, my amazing horse that have helped me achieve this and will be by my side as I fly our flag high.”

She explained that the selection process was detailed and formal as the selection committee consisted of four members, all of whom are highly regarded in the industry.

“Their objective for the selection was to choose four eligible athletes and horse combinations that are able to achieve the best possible results and include development athletes.”

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Katie said that when her mom received the call from SA Showjumping to say she had been selected for this team, it didn’t feel real.

“I always wanted to ride for South Africa and it is a dream come true. Showjumping is most often an individual sport so I really enjoy it when there is a team element to it.”

She pointed out that her school, is so supportive of her riding and have worked hard to build their SANESA Interschools team.

“Last year I won the SANESA National Championships for 1.10m Showjumping and Intermediate Equitation. Having my school and team members behind me made this achievement even more special.”

Katie elaborated that her family has always been involved in horses as her mom and both her aunts have ridden their whole lives, so she was lucky enough to grow up around them and have the opportunity to ride from a young age.

“Although I have ridden for most of my life, I only started competing when I was thirteen and, over the last three years, I have progressed up the grades and have absolutely loved competing in the showjumping ring.”

She pointed out that they have a family-owned yard in Hartbeespoort where her aunt, Lauren Pretorius, coaches her and where the rest of her family rides as well.

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“My passion and love for the sport as well as doing it with family has kept me motivated, especially in a very competitive environment.”

She added that in preparation for any competition, it is so important that she ensures that herself as well as her horse are physically and mentally prepared.

“For this event in particular, we need to make sure that we are in peak physical shape, fit enough and, most importantly, comfortable and happy. In order to achieve this, my team and I will have a schedule in place leading up to the event that involves fitness and technique lessons as well as recovery days for my horse and I which involves physio sessions.”

She said her horse is quite a character and she absolutely love spending time with him. As much as they both love jumping and having lessons, they usually have the most fun cantering through the fields, playing in the dam or spending time out of the arena.

“This has really helped form a bond between the two of us which has evidently made a positive difference in both of our performances.”

Katie concluded by saying she is excited to be riding alongside such an incredible team of talented riders and can’t wait to see what they are able to achieve together.

“I know we are all going to put our best foot forward and try really hard to get good results, but my main goal is to have as much fun as possible and enjoy the experience as it really is an amazing opportunity, and I am so grateful for it.”

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