Please give us a short introduction of yourself and your riding history:

I’ve been riding since I was 5, began my competitive career in juniors and jumped 90/1m

I started riding with the great Gonda Betrix at the age of 19. I have produced many open horses and 5 into the 1.50/1.60 grade.

Please can you list your achievements/ wins/ titles.

• Indoor Grand Prix, 
• Presidents Cup 4 times, (2 back to back each time)
• Outdoor GP twice back to back
• World Cup twice
• Derby
• South African Champs twice
• Have coached 4 students winning FEI gold, in ponies, children’s and Adult’s . We have travelled to the Finals where I have received Protea colours for coaching.

Who will you be competing on for Derby this year?

 Fulvic Connoissuer and possibly Eagles Lazer

What do you think makes Derby such a magical event? 

It’s a totally different event to any other in the year, it tests the horse and riders fitness, endurance and focus. It’s a long track including 2 big steps, a dyke with 3 jumps, a bank, a table top and a St Andrews cross which are not in our normal shows throughout the rest of the year.

Of all the horses you’ve ever ridden, which would you most like to jump the Derby track on and why? 

My horse Elpaso, he’s careful and is so keen to jump whatever is put in front of him, he’s such a fun horse who loved his job and would still jump today if I asked him to… He is sadly retiring his jumping career at this year’s Derby due to old age and a stifle injury.

Describe the first time you jumped Derby, how did it feel to ride into the arena that day? 

The first time I was nervous and went and sat in my car with earphones in relaxing before the main event, it’s got to be the most prestigious event to ride in, with a full crowded grandstand all round, there is a hype and excitement that is like no other show and the horses pick up on it.

It was one of the most exhilarating days of my life and we went round the track with a few fences down, but we saw the finish which was just amazing.

If this is the answer, what’s the question?: 

So for example I say 5am in the morning, and you say My least favourite time of day! 

Outrides: Haha, I don’t do them anymore. I always come back horseless doing the walk of shame LOL mine are all too naughty!

The Stone Wall: Luckily it’s after the water so it’s normally a related distance. That is unless your horse jumps into the water, then you have to make a decision – canter up and get going or wait for the extra. 

The Water: You have to have a strong ride into the water to make the width but then you have to get them back onto their hocks to sit and push over the 1.67m wall. It can be a tricky jump if you’re not on a good take off distance.

That is my dream!  

I always like to say it’s a REAL privilege to ride these majestic creatures who are strong and have their own minds. They allow us to get on their backs and steer them over big jumps and put their faith in us. They amaze me every day. I just love it! Best thing ever!