Horse riding is bursting out of its seams!

Horse riding has been an official school sport since 2002 and has grown over 1000% in the past seven years!  Enrolments increased from 139 in the first show in 2002, to 1 500 enrolments per show in the Gauteng North region at present.

To participate, schools (high or primary), must be affiliated with SANEF (South African National Equestrian Federation).  There are seven categories in which the scholar can participate.  These disciplines include dresser, performance riding, working riding, equitation, jumping, eventing and reining.  Primary and high schools do not compete against one another, and provision is made for beginners through difficulty grade separation. 

There are four competitions held before the show begins each year.  Whilst showing, competitors receive points for their achievements.  For example, first place earns 99 points; second place 98 points and so on.

In Gauteng North there are two teams, each with four riders.  These riders are hand-picked to participate in each section and each level of difficulty in the Gauteng Championships.  The top eight riders then represent Gauteng at the National Championships, which was held between the 11th and 13th September at Kyalami, Equestrian Park this year. 

Horse riding is an interesting and challenging sport that offers a wonderful opportunity for family and friends to spend time together in the outdoors.

Besides the honour of school trophies at the end of the year, there are many other appealing aspects to this sport.  The horse and his rider form a special bond, and learning discipline and respect is critical to the scholar’s success.  Horse riding is a school sport but also an event that the whole family can enjoy together as parents often accompany their child to practice and shows offer their support.

 WHEN CAN THE SPORT BE PRACTICED?

Throughout the entire year.  Horse riding as a sport is not affected by the seasons.  Normally one would practice 3 to 4 times per week, for an hour at a time.

 WHERE?

There are 120 horse riding schools in the Pretoria area alone. Stables can be hired monthly and it is not essential for you to own your own horse.  Most riding schools own horses which are available to scholars who want to participate at shows.  There are approximately 30 schools within Pretoria that are affiliated by SANEF for horse riding sport.

For more information please contact Spokes de Bruyn at 082 450 8583