With the annual showjumping calendar filled with a number of ‘travel shows’, riders have their pick as to what shows to enter. But one venue stands head and shoulders above the rest as a rider-favourite. With the riders having once again flocked to Polokwane en masse this past weekend for the 2020 Revil Stables – Riders’ Series Limpopo Leg, we take a look at why Revil Stables is considered by many as the best show venue in the country.
Around October of every year, Conrad and Rene Fourie, owners of Revil Stables, host their leg of the South African FEI World Cup Qualifier series. Without fail, it’s always a huge success; entries open on SA Showjumping and within a matter of hours, entries are full. This isn’t only the case for the Revil WCQ either – regardless of the status of the show, riders jump at the opportunity to compete at Revil, with a four-hour drive merely part of the fun. To see what makes the shows so special, we asked a number of riders and owners what it is that makes Revil simply unmissable.
Tamzyn Wegrostek, open rider and owner of Silhouette Park Equestrian Centre said, “The well-organised and beautiful facilities, as well as the great hospitality from Rene and Conrad make Revil shows one of our favourites.” Another rider was quoted as saying, “Revil stands out for its superb organisation, fantastic sponsorships and prizes, and the friendly yet professional atmosphere. We always mark the Revil dates on our calendar first.”
Di Slade, owner of top competitive horses including Data Sciences Hummer and Data Sciences Enouche, has only positive things to say. Of the facilities, she says, “The going in the arena and warm-up is really good and maintained well. There is space to walk your horses out, ample water points, safe stables, [and] good equipment.” She also gave particular mention to the ablution facilities which are always clean and well kept for both grooms and riders.
It’s not just about the facilities, but the show itself. “The prize money and prizes are always so generous. The catering is amazing, for [both] grooms and riders. The layout is so great, with the warm-up close to the arena so you can see what’s going on in both,” she goes on to say. “The whole Revil team is top drawer. It’s lots of the little things that add up to the whole experience [being] stress free and enjoyable for grooms, riders, and owners alike. Our grooms love going to Revil.”
Perhaps the advantage comes from Rene being a competitive rider herself, building the Revil experience around what riders need and want. Of course no Revil show would be complete without the great food, bustling atmosphere, and the warm hospitality of Conrad Fourie as one of the shows’ hosts. It’s little wonder the Revil shows are as successful and as highly regarded by the riders as they are; perhaps other venues could learn from what makes this venue so popular among the riders.
-The JumpOff-
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