The Young Horse Performance Series™ (YHPS) is a showcase for breeders of showjumping horses in South Africa, with horses judged not just on jumping penalties and time, but also judged on their potential as future showjumping stars, by highly experienced riders, breeders and coaches. There are three age categories: 5, 6 and 7 year olds, and there are separate prizes for the showjumping score (penalties and time) and for the “Potential Showjumper”.
The YHPS series comprises five legs at various venues, each with its own excellent prize money. The horse’s overall score is the sum total of the horse’s 4 best results over the series - ie. if a horse competes in all 5 legs, its worst score will be discarded.
201 promises to be the best series yet, with the prospect of new, exciting venues and sponsors and plenty of young showjumping prospects.
This website is sponsored by HSB Investments (Pty) Ltd and designed by Mane design.
HOW THE YHPS STARTED
In November 2004, the THS Show Jumping Committee was tasked with ‘creating’ a fundraiser to boost their show jumping funds. The idea of holding ‘age category’ shows originated from Bob Neill and the committee decided to try and hold three shows for the following year. There was immediate enthusiasm, with a number of committee members offering trophies to be awarded to the best horse in each age group.
Dominey Alexander and Gail Foxcroft were asked to draw up the rules for this show in January 2005. In April the series was to be run by the THS office, with Sue van der Merwe and Gail helping with the officials and general organisation.
The final leg was to be held at the Pretoria Showground’s at the end of August. Gail and Sue managed to secure a number of trophy sponsorships, 12 day sheets and
R10 000.000 towards expenses and prize money. By May 2006 the series was still limping along and the management had decided that K.E.P. arenas need to be profitable and the series would be discontinued.
Both Gail and Sue decided to run the series privately, and with the help of Maria Kroon, some wonderful friends and sponsors, the series has flourished, with entries as far as Namibia and Botswana, and is currently in its 6th year.
Please ensure that you are familiar with all the relevant rules unique to the YHPS, particularly those governing age group eligibility and tack restrictions.
A picture perfect spring day for the Finals of the Young Horse Performance series hosted by Gail Foxcroft at Glenfox Stables ensured that superb jumping from the top qualifiers was witnessed by spectators, breeders, owners and loyal supporters of this annual series. A Champagne tent with delicious snacks and drinks was available to all at the start of the day,setting the scene for a good day with great people and very special horses. The arena was well prepared and the equipment newly painted, all done by the Glenfox Stud manager Cindy Faber, who worked like a Trojan to ensure that the day was a success. She is a girl blessed with many talents, but mainly her attention to detail and ability to keep everybody happy is matchless.
It was a privilege to have Rogan Asken as the announcer for this show. His wealth of knowledge and keen interest in the background, breeding and production of show jumpers in South Africa is to be marvelled at. Added to this he is a charming gentleman with an easy manner on the microphone keeping the spectators well informed as each horse is seen in the ring. Barry Taylor and Johan Lotter...
