Show jumper ready for World Equestrian Games

The games start on 23 August and end on 7 September. She said it was something she had worked very hard towards.

“It’s such a prestigious competition, she said. “I am so honoured to have been chosen to represent the South African team once again.” She added that at the competition, the riders would ride as individuals, however their scores go towards the overall South African team.

“I really look forward to competing at the top level with the best riders in the world,” she said. “I also look forward to seeing all my friends again as well as making new friends from across the globe, gaining miles and soaking up the whole experience.”

This will be Frew’s third appearance at the games. She said the first time she participated at the World Equestrian Games was in 2006 in Germany. Then in 2010 she competed as a show jumper in Lexington, Kentucky. “Caen will be my second time as a show jumper,” she added.

Frew was just 18 years old when she competed at the last World Equestrian Games. “I was the youngest and only girl on my team then, and I will once again be the youngest on my team for this year’s games,” explained Frew.

She said she and her horse Leo were one of only a handful of combinations that have competed at two games. Leo is a 15-year-old old grey gelding and Frew has had him since she was 15 years old.

To qualify for the games, Frew said she needed a certificate of competency and had to meet the standards of the South African National Federation. She explained, “There is a panel of selectors who assess all the eligible riders, looking at results, sportsmanship, ability to ride under pressure and other factors. Then they make a decision as to who they believe are the most suitable candidates to represent South Africa at the games.”

Frew feels she and Leo are ready for the games and that they will be 100 percent ready by the time the games commence.