Equestrian team honoured after African Games success

Equestrian
Special emphasis was placed on Elani and Elbe Potgieter, who earned silver and bronze medals respectively at the event.
Staff Reporter
  • 12 Hours Ago

The Namibian equestrian team that represented the country at the first African School Games in Algeria last August was honoured with tracksuits by the Namibia National Olympic Committee (NNOC) in Windhoek on Wednesday.

The handover marked a moment of recognition for the athletes’ efforts and achievements on the continental stage.

The NNOC chief executive officer Anri Parker welcomed the equestrian athletes and their entourage with a warm and gracious attitude, presenting them with their tracksuits following a meaningful exchange of experiences and heartfelt congratulations.

In addition to the tracksuit handover, the Namibian Equestrian Federation (NAMEF) awarded certificates of recognition to the athletes in honour of their performances.

Special emphasis was placed on Elani and Elbe Potgieter, who earned silver and bronze medals respectively at the event.

The Namibian riders made a strong impression in Algeria. Officials and members of the organising committee praised the team’s skill and professionalism, reporting back to NAMEF that the Namibian riders displayed a high standard of riding.

NAMEF expressed pride not only in the athletes’ performances but also in how they conducted themselves throughout the event.

In the showjumping category, the following four riders competed over 1.05 metre obstacles under the guidance of chef d’équipe Vanessa Glowania: Alyssa Hopking, Luis Kotze, Emily Le Roux and Arinda Duvenhage.

In the endurance discipline, Elani Potgieter and her sister Elbe Potgieter represented team Namibia. Despite facing challenges with tack and the condition of some of the horses, the pair demonstrated resilience and composure.

Supported by their chef d’équipe Johanna Potgieter, they successfully overcame these obstacles.

Their determination paid off, with Elani Potgieter securing a silver medal and Elbe Potgieter earning bronze in the individual rankings.

The achievements of the team highlight the growing strength of equestrian sport in the country and underline the athletes’ dedication to representing their country with distinction.

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