South Africa: Three local riders to tackle endurance ride

News24.com

THREE local sportswomen are set to put their endurance and horse riding skills to the ultimate test.

Riana Griebenouw, Kirsty Masterson and Anri Wolmarans will compete in the 160km South African International Endurance Riding Challenge at the Bona Bona Nature Reserve near Klerksdorp in North West Province.

The 160km ride will be divided into six legs: two legs of 40km each and four legs of 20km each. After each leg the horse will be thoroughly inspected by international accredited veterinarians, who decide whether the horse is fit to continue.

“This is not only a fitness challenge, but also a test of mental strength for both horse and rider,” says Wolmarans.

Masterson will ride Delmar Nadra, an 8-year-old mare bred by Daan Landman from Tsitsikamma, while Wolmarans will saddle up 8-year-old gelding Delmar Hasan - also bred by Landman. Griebenouw will take on the challenge on the back of Welbech Hurst Lienka, a 7-year-old from the Welbech Stud in Middelburg.

They will, along with seven other riders, represent the Eastern Cape at this annual challenge. Other team members are Leanne Wels, Antoinette van Zyl, Peet Diedericks, Megan Botha, Nicara Diedericks, Marti Geldenhuys and Xander Diedericks - all from different areas in the Eastern Cape.