Riders shine in Swakopmund

Adolf Kaure



About 100 riders took part in the four-day Reiterverein Swakopmund dressage and show jumping national championships.

Reiterverein Swakopmund stable manager Silvia Kleyenstüber said the championships, which started on Thursday, saw an increase in competitors.

“The parents have invested in very good horses over the past years and many trainers from abroad have been coaching the riders, which has improved the sport in general.

“The juniors have made big steps this year. We have many more competing in the higher classes than last year,” said Kleyenstüber.

According to her, the sport has generally seen an improvement over the past few years.

“It is challenging considering the economic situation of Namibia, as it is an expensive sport. We definitely have well-bred Namibian horses with promising young riders, who are willing to put in the extra mile to represent Namibia nationally and internationally.

Kleyenstüber thanked all the sponsors who made the competition possible.

She encouraged the youth to try out the sport, as “it teaches the youth responsibility and commitment towards the daily care of animals and has been proven to be therapeutic for humans.”