THE Zimbabwe showriding team has set its sights on an historic victory in the prestigious FEI CSIO1 Adult Nations Cup, which kicks off this Wednesday, at the world-class Steyn City Equestrian Centre in South Africa.
The highly-anticipated showjumping event — the first FEI Nations Cup to ever be held in Southern Africa — will see the Zimbabwean team compete against formidable rivals: hosts South Africa, as well as European and global powerhouses, Ireland and the Netherlands.
The five-member Zimbabwean squad is comprised of Charley Barford, Amy Hay, Stuart Walker, Sophie Teede, and Katie Loubser. Guiding the team is Chef d'equipe Penny Crockart, with Shayne Hay serving as the team manager.
Speaking ahead of the competition, Hay confirmed the team’s ultimate goal.
"Our target is to do our best to win and to enjoy competing against some of the best riders in the world," Hay said.
The Nations Cup competition, which culminates in the main event on Saturday, November 29, is a major step up for Zimbabwe, which Hay noted has never competed at this level before.
"This is a highly prestigious competition and we are very proud to have been invited to participate. This will be the first time a Zimbabwe Team has competed at this level."
Zimbabwe is banking on a blend of experienced riders and promising young talent, with a potential advantage should the competition go to a tie-breaking jump-off.
The team manager highlighted the strength of the riders, who have been actively competing throughout the year.
Barford is a key asset, having earned the nickname "Master of Faster" in South Africa for her unbeatable speed. Amy Hay is also noted for her fast partnership with her horse, Otto.
Hay pointed out that both riders have been flying the Zimbabwe flag high competing in the World Cup qualifiers this year in South Africa.
The experienced Stuart Walker joins the team, currently competing successfully in the 1.30/1.35m classes in South Africa. The squad also includes Sophie Teede, a representative for Zimbabwe at the Youth Olympic Games in China in 2014, and Katie Loubser, an up-and-coming young rider who has also been competing in the 1.30/1.35m classes in South Africa.
The team’s strategy is clearly focused on the potential final round, which features the quickest time.
"The competition consists of over the entire course,” Hay added.
“After the two compulsory rounds, if there is an equality of penalties, the teams will pick one rider to complete the jump off.
“Should it go to a jump off, Zimbabwe has a very strong chance of winning.”
Competition is expected to be fierce, as the visiting teams feature riders at the pinnacle of the sport.
"The teams from Ireland and the Netherlands consist of riders who are currently competing at the top of the sport in Europe," said Hay, underscoring the calibre of the challenge facing the Zimbabwean riders.
Zimbabwe has been diligently preparing, though they have faced challenges as a self-funded operation.
"Unfortunately, the team is self-funded, and they have had to fundraise," the manager noted.
The five-day spectacular runs until Sunday, November 30, and represents the final competition of the showjumping season.
"The riders are as well prepared as they can be as they have all been competing throughout the year," Hay concluded, expressing confidence in the team's ability to rise to the occasion.
The FEI CSIO1* Adult Nations Cup main event will take place on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at Steyn City, South Africa.
