Excellence on display at equestrian show

The equestrian community converged at the coast for the 67th Reiter Verein Swakopmund (RVS) annual tournament.

The event showcased a diverse range of competitions, from Dressage to Show Jumping over five days from 13 to 17 December. According to coach and official, Frauke Röschlau, the event which concluded on Sunday is the pinnacle of the equestrian calendar. "It attracted participants on all levels, from young beginners navigating 10-centimeter jumps to seasoned riders commanding one-meter-thirty heights."

The two-phase jumping competitions produced numerous highlights, with riders displaying exceptional prowess while dressage enthusiasts revelled in the expertise of two South African judges, bringing an international flavor to the event.

Röschlau said that there is development of the sport being seen in the country. “Horse riding requires a lot of commitment. It’s not something you can one day just decide to not do. This sport comes with a horse that needs to train, be fed and be kept."

She explained the Namibian Equestrian Federation actively promotes different disciplines like dressage, show jumping, eventing, and endurance. “ Recognizing the responsibility that comes with equestrian pursuits, the community strives to ignite passion and dedication in aspiring riders. Investment in coaching and officials aims not only to enhance the skills of riders but to elevate the sport to international standards. The development focus extends to the younger generation, with riding schools playing a crucial role. These schools introduce children to the world of equestrianism, offering a chance to explore the sport before committing to its demands."