Show Jumpers

Kutloano and Sefenya Moloi took an instant liking to horses when their businessman father bought a farm in the Eastern Free State four years ago. Impressed by his children’s newfound passion, Moloi bought them an Arabian horse — thanks to which the boys became more “loving, caring and disciplined”. As a result he bought them an Arabian stud and more horses, which they started riding. The brothers began to compete in different types of competitions about two years ago, eventually decided to concentrate on showing Arabian horses, and have excelled ever since. Last year 13-year-old Sefenya won the child rider class at the Mpumalanga Arabian Championships and was placed fourth in the overall rider category. At the South African Arabian National Championships this year 14-year-old Kutloano won the show hack child rider and the English pleasure child rider categories. There was also a top-10 place for each of them at this year’s Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show in Arizona, United States, which draws 2 500 accomplished riders and 30 000 spectators annually. This qualifies them to participate in the US National Youth Championship in July. Although Kutloano likes the faster performance classes and Sefenya enjoys precision riding, they often compete against each other. “Although we both try to win, we are always happy and proud of the one who does the best,” they concur. If the brothers have to miss school, their teachers prepare homework for them, which they complete at shows between events. Kutloano and Sefenya attribute their success to hard work and correct preparation. That and the fact that they love what they do. “We enjoy the challenge and the fact that the horses and competitions keep you humble. You can be at the top of your game today, but a tiny mistake can put you at the bottom tomorrow.”

— Fatima Asmal

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