05/11/2006

FINAL REPORT FROM SOUTH AFRICA

The Kelt Capital Horse of the Year Junior Equitation Team chased the leaders, Great Britain, in the final two sections of the Junior International Showman Championships which were held in Johannesburg this last weekend. Lying third after the first day of the two day competition, the team of Chloe Akers, Stacey Anderson, Rachael Bentall, Letice Carey and Amber McGovern Wilson (reserve) nearly pulled off an upset win when they won the Working Hunter and Jumping sections, thus taking the lead by one point from Great Britain. However the Great Britain team came back strongly to win the Rider Class, finishing with one point clear, in a tense and exciting final. Australia came third, several points behind and South Africa was fourth. The team is disappointed to lose by the smallest of margins but they can be proud of their achievements, especially as this was New Zealand�s first time in this competition. It certainly shows that we have some wonderful junior riders who can adapt to different horses and conditions, and at this level, still compete favourably against the best the world can offer. Letice Carey was the top placed individual competitor over the two days of competition, being placed first in the dressage and well up in the other phases. Rachael Bentall was placed first in the Working Hunter. The team, management and supporters now have a well earned break in Sun City for a few days before returning home next weekend. Well done to all the people involved, and especially to the team members, all of whom have been excellent representatives of the Kelt Capital Horse of the Year. Back>>>