1.30M SOUTH AFRICAN CHAMPIONS – OLIVIA GARTON AND CYLANA

“Cylana (eight-year-old Consuelo x Glann Alme mare) and I began our journey in November 2020, when we started competing in the 90cm classes and slowly made our way up the grades. She is by Consuelo out of Cleopatra (Cinzia Pasteris’ World Cup Winner and my sister’s top Junior horse).

True to the nature of chestnut mares, she shows a range of personalities; some days she is ‘Lunatic Lana’, and other days ‘Lovely Lana.’ Regardless of her mood, her heart of gold ensures that she always fights for us in the ring.

The process of developing a horse through the Open grades is immensely fulfilling, and the bond that forms through this journey is truly special. When Lana competed in her first 1.30m class in September 2023, I was so nervous, but Lana didn’t even bat an eyelid.

I am deeply grateful for the guidance and support from my mom, my entire team, and especially from my mentor and hero, Ronnie Lawrence, whose groundwork training and dedication have proved invaluable.

Our performance at the South African Championships was a highlight, as we secured the 1.30m SA Championship Title. This achievement is particularly meaningful to me, as my mom won this same title with her horse, Leonardo Da Vinci, in 2012. Then, the following day, we competed in the Inter-provincial Open Team competition, where Gauteng emerged victorious. This show will always hold a special place in my memories.” – Olivia Garton