Agnes Phiri (24) dreams of becoming an Olympic champion in showjumping, writes Ntuthuko Maphumulo. She has made the leap into the professional ranks of the elite sport thanks to a sponsorship that will allow her to focus full-time on riding.
Phiri’s love for horses began after she moved from Alexandra township to live with her stepmother, a domestic worker who worked at the Phaeton horse stables, north of Johannesburg. Her passion for horses developed and she learned how to ride.
Phiri said: “The minute I saw the horses, the ease and majesty of the riders, I knew that I had found something I loved.” Phiri’s horse, The Real Things, affectionately known as Ribs, has competed with her at dressage and showjumping competitions.
Last year they took part in two highly rated show jumping competitions, the Rand Show and the Transvaal Horse Society’s Chinta show.
The SAP-Africa sponsorship will allow her to take part in the prestigious national championships this month and the Derby at Kyalami in September. The sponsorship will cover Phiri’s tuition, stabling competition entry fees, travelling, clothing and equipment.
Phiri has now become a role model for the local community and aspiring disadvantaged children.
Phiri’s advice to other aspiring jumpers is: “Don’t be scared and think of the horse as some brute animal. Showjumping is easy and enjoyable. Horses are like humans but they are much nicer.”