At the annual South African National Equestrians for Schools Association (Sanesa) prize-giving ceremony in the Free State, Ryan Martin (18) received the award for rider of the year.
During the year, Ryan – a learner of the Brainline Online School who just completed Gr. 12 – competed with his three horses: Callaho Colby, Callaho Larina, and Hello Quality Equestrian’s (HQE) Kadush. He is a brand ambassador for HQE, a producer and supplier of leather footwear.
This was the last year that Ryan could compete in Sanesa, as the competition is meant only for learners.
He did not do very well at the national competition this year, as Callaho Larina was injured. Callaho Colby, on the other hand, is too young and still in training.
This year, Kadush was recognised as the reserve champion in the 1,2 m Thoroughbred series held at Penbritte, Johannesburg. This competition is for retired race horses who have taken on a second career.
Ryan has since relocated to Johannesburg to obtain a Bsc degree in an online Computer Science programme through the University of London. This will enable him to compete in the adult equestrian circuits.
Through it all, he still dreams of competing at the Olympic Games one day.
