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GEORGE NEWS - Excitement is in the air at the George Riding Club (GRC) as competitors in the annual Western Cape Eventing Championships are preparing themselves and their horses for a challenging weekend during which their skills will be tested in dressage, cross-country and showjumping.
Georgians are invited to attend and experience some horsey culture and exhilarating viewing.
The dressage is being held today.
According to the lead judge of the championship, Mike Greeff, an affiliate of the Fédération Equestre International (FEI), the horses have to be in top condition for the cross-country and showjumping.
“They know what is lying ahead when they arrive at the venue. The anticipation causes excitement to build up and this adds to the challenge of the dressage phase where discipline and control are paramount.”
The cross-country and showjumping will be held tomorrow and Sunday respectively. Both are spectacular to watch, especially the cross-country that requires speed, courage and unconditional trust between horse and rider, and there some challenging fences competitors will have to negotiate.
Greeff says 92 competitors have entered. Spectators are welcome. “This is an ideal family outing that will allow you to experience a bit of horsey culture while relaxing in the open air. There are stalls, a restaurant and a pub selling refreshments.”
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Mike Greeff, lead judge, and Peter Emmett (right), technical delegate.
Anje Daubern from George and her horse, Boldlingari, will be taking part in the 65cm Junior division. Her friend Rachel Eyal is there to support her.
Jemima Johnson and her horse, Dance in the Diamonds, are looking forward to the competition.
Groom Shona Shonga is plaiting a horse's mane before the dressage begins.
The George Riding Club is abuzz with riders and horses.
Beatrix Young from Stellenbosch on Daydream warming up.
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