ROGER HESSEN BACK TO DEFEND HIS TITLE AT EQUESTRIA 2006

Midrand’s Roger Hessen, winner of the two major titles at the inaugural Equestria Indoor Showjumping Championships in 2005, will be back to defend his title at this year’s show.

Riding Cavalor Quixote, Hessen clinched both the Equestria Indoor Grand Prix and the Father Christmas Masters against stiff competition in 2005. This year, Hessen and his brave horse promise to return with vengeance, with the goal of once again taking the trophy home – and perhaps catch the eye of a lady spectator.

“Obviously I aim to win but I am also there to put on a good show and hopefully impress the ladies,” says Hessen.

And, with a horse like Quixote carrying him, it shouldn't’t be hard.

Hessen explains that Quixote is the offspring of world-renowned stallion, Quidam De Reval of France Quixote was foaled by means of pioneering Artificial Insemination (AI) therapy 15 years ago.

According to Hessen, Quidam De Reval is recognised as the best and most successful breeding stallion in the world, with at least one of his sons ranking tops in almost every show-jumping competition throughout Europe and the United States.

Hessen first hopped onto a horse when he was 14 years old and has been show-jumping competitively for 25 years. Unlike the majority of riders, Hessen does not come from a traditionally horsy family. However, he always had a love for horses and this grew stronger when he took his first riding lesson. Horses are now his career. Hessen is a well-known riding instructor and breeder.

He is looking forward to the upcoming Equestria Indoor Show-jumping Championships because he says there are few indoor competitions of its caliber in South Africa.

“There are only a handful of indoor show-jumping events worth participating in – and watching for that matter. Equestria is one of them. There is a great line-up of fantastic riders competing this year so competition will be tough.

“Equestria also has a wonderful atmosphere, making for great spectator value,” concludes Hessen.

Catch Hessen and Quixote in action at Equestria 2006, taking place at the Coca-Cola Dome at Northgate from 8 to 10 December.