Botswana debut at Equestrian competition
Botswana will make its debut at the Federation Equestrian International (FEI) youth jumping competition that takes place in Algeria this weekend, where Morgan Irish represents the country.
The competition has attracted 28 riders from 28 countries across the continent. Morgan’s manager, Sean Irish told Mmegi Sport equestrian is not a familiar sport in Botswana and the intention is for his daughter to shift that mindset by taking part in the competition.
“We have arrived in Algiers for the Africa Nations Cup and we only hope for the best. She is competing in the show jumping category. She did not travel with her horse and the one she would be riding has been borrowed from the organisers,” he said.
The competition will be on borrowed horses and there will be a horse draw. Irish said Morgan (14) had to travel to Algeria before the competition to familiarise herself with different horses. He said there is a toss for the horses and they are not sure which horse she will be using on the day of the competition. Irish said since their arrival, Morgan has been doing well during training making clear rounds.
Morgan developed a love for horse riding at the age of four and never looked back. With the support from her family, especially her father, who is her biggest cheerleader, she has grown and thrived. Most of her riding is based in South Africa as the sport is yet to grow in Botswana but that has never discouraged her from following her dreams.
Morgan is sponsored by Nashua. Irish explained that as part of the requirements, the Botswana National Sport Commission approved her entry into the competition, which is a requirement by FEI, the world body for Equestrian sport.