SA Derby just too close to call
SHOWJUMPING: RACE FOR TOP HONOURS WIDE OPEN
Premier event is now in its 52nd year in Kyalami.
As one of the hot favourites going ahead of the South African Derby at Kyalami Equestrian Park next weekend, four-time champion Nicole Harwood realises she needs to be at the top of her game if she wants to add to her glittering collection of titles.
“The Derby is so unpredictable that I feel anyone who qualifies has a chance of winning it,” said Horwood.
“There are a lot of good horses out there and the field seems to get stronger and stronger each year. Our level and strength of competition has risen over the years. In days gone by you could win on four faults or just being the only clear round, now you have to gallop your heart out to be the fastest in the jump-off. I also believe on the day you need to have Lady Luck on your side.”
Horwood is set to face a daunting challenge from Nicole Sime-Riley and Dominey Alexander. Sime-Riley recently won the Revil World Cup qualifier and is one of the form riders going into the SA Derby.
“When it comes to a possible winner, like I say for every show: it’s the best horse and rider combination on the day ... anyone can take it,” Sime-Riley said.
Alexander agrees with Horwood and Sime-Riley.
“The standard of riding in South Africa has improved so much that on the day anyone could win. If it isn’t me, then one of my many clients, but mostly I hope everyone has a safe trip around the course,” he said.
Now in its 52nd year, the SA Derby is the toughest showjumping challenge, which makes it the most-sought-after title on the equestrian calendar.
The 18-obstacle, 1 200m course is only ever won by the horse and rider combination that is the fittest, the most focused and the most on form on the day.
Attended by over 5 000 people, this event sees the Who’s Who of the fashion and riding worlds gather for a day of welcoming hospitality, family fun and equine excellence.
Tickets are available at Ticketpro and prices range from R50 to R100 for Saturday and from R100 to R600 for Sunday’s action, which includes the main event at 2pm.