Champions crowned at show jumping nationals

Equestrian
The Capricorn Asset Management National Show Jumping Championship delivered a masterclass in precision, scope and partnership.
Geneva de Jager
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Hooves thundered, leather creaked, and hearts raced under the bright Namibian sun as the Gymkhana Club Windhoek (GCW) hosted an electrifying weekend of equestrian excellence.

The nation’s finest riders and most agile equine athletes converged for the Capricorn Asset Management National Show Jumping Championship, delivering a masterclass in precision, scope and partnership.

Across three days of intense competition, the arena witnessed faultless clear rounds, breathtaking jump-offs, and gravity-defying clearances over punishing courses that separated the contenders from the champions.

In the fiercely contested Child Championship, poise under pressure won the day. Aria Kleyenstüber, riding Baron Von Sphinxblick, executed flawless lines and tight turns to claim the coveted 2026 Namibian Showjumping Child Champion title.

Hot on her heels with a brilliant exhibition of tactical riding was Reserve Champion Emma Jordaan, partnered with Sphinxblick Kalila.


Junior Division

The momentum carried into the Junior Division, where precision met sheer power.

Alyssa Hopking, piloting The Tug Restaurant Tommy Davies, soared above the rest to secure the 2026 Junior crown, displaying an effortless rhythm and exceptional partnership.

Reserve Champion honours went to Emily Le Roux, riding Elite Employment Capital Uzzi, after a brilliant display of technical riding.

When the senior riders stepped into the arena, the stakes reached a fever pitch. In the pinnacle Adult Showjumping Championship, veteran grit and supreme equine athleticism took centre stage.

Taria Britz, expertly paired with Great Uncle Argo, navigated the imposing tracks with ice in her veins to claim the ultimate senior title.

Following closely in a hard-fought battle for top honours, Michelle Kunzle secured the Reserve Champion title aboard the formidable Seeis Elton.

The weekend also celebrated standout triumphs in the GCW Championships.

Emily Le Roux claimed the GCW Showjumping Championship title with Elite Employment Capital Uzzi, while Zoe Schmidt rode Ten Einde Ideal Winter to a stellar Reserve Championship finish.


Dressage Championship

In the disciplined elegance of the GCW Dressage Championship, harmony and precision reigned supreme.

Kate Alison, dancing through the tests with Chianti O.T. Lowlands Z, captured the championship title, with Gerhard Van Staden taking Reserve Champion aboard Alpha Lord Loxley.

The team spirit reached its zenith in the Team Champions showdown. The formidable Team GCW, comprising Tanja Bauer (Seeis Arvado), Louis Kotze (Sandy Lane Hermes), Laura Jacob (Vento), and Nicolene Grundeling (Seeis Monte Kalino), put on a masterclass in collective brilliance, teamwork, and tactical execution to hoist the championship trophy.

As the dust settled on a historic weekend of equestrian sport, the 2026 National Championships proved that Namibian showjumping is leaping into a bright future, defined by grit, grace, and unmatched horsemanship.

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