Nikanor Nangolo

Walvis Bay

Equestrian club Reiterverein Swakopmund kicked off an arena, showjumping and dressage graded show on Saturday.The two-day grading show started off with some dressage (where a rider and horse are expected to perform from memory a series of predetermined movements) for children, juniors and adults.

This was then followed by some exciting cross-country track events later during the day, which saw winners taking top honours in six classes. Barke Hower won in class two, Maja Hower in class three, Alyssa Hoking in class four and five, Carolin Hoffmeister in class six and Julia Bauer in class seven.

Sunday morning saw the riders and horses competing in some showjumping, which started off with the small classes right up to the big guns.

According to tournament organiser Silvia Kleyenstuber, it was small grading show with only coastal riders taking part, which brought the total to about 24 horses competing.

“The main aim of the tournament is to allow the horses and riders more ring time to gain more experience because in two weeks’ time, the Namibian championships will be taking place in Windhoek. So, it’s good for them to practice some more before leaving to compete in the championships,” she said.More competitions ahead

Hoffmeister, one of the riders, said she was very excited about the event.

“I brought five horses for the dressage event as well as the showjumping. I train the horses every day at home for dressage and showjumping, basically doing a lot gymnastics with the horses,” she said, adding that she had been looking forward to what turned out to be an “awesome weekend”.

Kleyenstuber said the big annual tournament will take place in December. “The four-day event will take place from 7 to 11 December and since it is a big show, we expect to have 90 to 100 horses joining us at the show this year.

“Everyone is welcome to come join and support, as all proceeds go to the club. Next weekend, we will also be hosting the October festival where we will have pony rides so people are welcome to bring their children for a little fun,” she said.

nikanor@erongo.com.na