SOUTHERN CAPE NEWS - The South African National Equestrian Schools Association (SANESA) SWD Schools League kicked off recently amid great enthusiasm amongst school riders in the South Western Districts region. The first qualifier was held at the George Riding Club from 10 to 12 February, where many up-and-coming new riders took part in the disciplines of Showing, Dressage, Equitation, Working Hunter and Showjumping.

Schools such as Oakhill High and Primary, Plettenburg Bay Primary, Outeniqua High, PW Botha College, Laerskool George-Suid and Laerskool Outeniqua entered riders to earn points for their school. Points from each qualifier are tallied at the end of the year to decide who are the high and primary school winners in the region. At the end of last year, Outeniqua High School walked away with the laurels in their division, whereas Oakhill Primary from Knysna won the junior division.

The aim is to have four Qualifiers for this season, in which each rider has the opportunity to be selected for the SWD Regional team taking part in the regional finals. This event takes place in George from 9 to 11 August and local SWD riders will compete against riders from Boland and WP.

All riders are encouraged to participate in this wonderful opportunity to ride for their school and eventually for their region.
SANESA's second Qualifier will be at Rheenendal's DP Equestrian Centre from 17 to 18 March.

For any enquiries contact Annelise at 082 358 0743.


Junior rider Christiaan du Plessis from the Cape Home Educators Prep jumped 70cm on his pony. Photos: G Photography