The Stellenbosch District Riding Club (SDRC) hosted the opening show for 2025 of Working Equitation, on Saturday March 22, with 16 riders taking part.

The event highlighted the growing popularity of this equestrian discipline, which combines precision, control, and versatility in both horse and rider. Working Equitation has its origins in the traditional horsemanship skills required for ranch and farm work in Southern Europe, particularly in Portugal, Spain, and Italy.

Originally designed to demonstrate the agility and responsiveness of working horses in tasks like cattle herding and navigating difficult terrain, it has evolved into a competitive sport.

Today, riders test their skills through dressage, obstacle courses, and speed phases, showcasing their partnership with their horses in practical, real-world scenarios, and riders participated in two phases.

The first phase is the Dressage phase, and the second is the Ease of Handling phase, featuring double slaloms, bridges, and the challenge of skewering the ring off the wooden bull with a garrocha.

This obstacle originated from the practical application of sorting cattle on horseback, where the garrocha is used to control and direct animals.

Miahsanthra Moodley, riding Mirtillo of Monte Cavalo, demonstrated the skill required to complete the obstacle.

Riders of all breeds are welcome to compete in Working Equitation, making it an inclusive and versatile sport.

South African Working Equitation Association (ZAWE) is affiliated with South African Equestrian Federation (SAEF).

Miahsanthra wore the traditional Portuguese attire for working equitation, though riders can choose to wear dressage, showing, or western attire, depending on their preference. This flexibility in clothing allows competitors to express their individual style while honoring the discipline’s diverse roots.

With a successful event, SDRC looks forward to more opportunities for riders of all backgrounds to experience and compete in Working Equitation.

WCWEA expressed their thanks to Karen Dormehl and the SDRC committee, the judges and the sponsors of this event, for their support and camaraderie.

Patricia Robertson (Classical Dressage), chairperson Western Cape Working Equitation Association, can be contacted for clinics and lessons. For more information, to get involved, or for sponsorship opportunities, contact the Western Cape Working Equitation Association at wcworkingequitation@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page at Western Cape Working EquitationAssociation.