Young coastal rider Aria Kleyenstueber delivered a standout performance at the Capricorn Asset Management 2026 Namibian Dressage Championships, winning the First Level Test 2 on Baron von Sphinxblick at Reitclub Okahandja (RCO).
Aria’s victory was a highlight for the coastal contingent at the national championships, where riders faced stiff competition against some of Namibia’s top dressage combinations.
The children’s championship title was not awarded because the two competitors did not meet the required criteria. Nevertheless, Aria put up her best performance, securing a memorable win in her class. Other coastal riders, Silvia Kleyenstueber, Carolin Hoffmeister, Carmen Piepmeyer, Maya Höwer and Laura Pflippen, also gave their best during the demanding competition but could not secure additional titles.
Swakopmund’s Carolin Hoffmeister and Equimaster Heidi’s Mohinho came close to the top honours, finishing second behind Svenja Späth and Equimaster Seeis Arian in the Third Level Test 2. Reitclub Okahandja enjoyed a triumphant weekend, claiming both the adult individual and club team titles.
The standout performer was 28-year-old Svenja Späth, who secured five first-place finishes across three horses in the First, Second and Third Level competitions. Riding her cousin’s mare, Seeis Anicia, Späth won the First Level Test 2, First Level Test 3 and Musical Freestyle. She also secured two second-place finishes with her young gelding, Equimaster Davetsaub Malibu. Her black stallion, Equimaster Seeis Arian, returned to competition in impressive form, successfully defending their Namibian Adult Dressage Champion title.
The pair won the Third Level Test 3 and Third Level Musical Freestyle. RCO’s success extended to the club team competition, where Späth joined Silke and Milanka Bean and Beate Voigts to secure the 2026 Namibian Club Team Championship. Reitsport Zentrum Kapps finished as reserve club champions, represented by Kate Alison on Lowlands Z Chianti O.T. and junior riders Leia-Mae van der Merwe and Lee-Ann Smith.
Alison also claimed the adult reserve champion title, while van der Merwe retained her Junior Dressage Champion title after winning the same honour in 2025. The championships also incorporated the FEI Dressage World Challenge, 7 Nations and African Confederation of Equestrian Sport competitions. FEI judge Silvia Brückner hosted a riders’ discussion following Friday’s Senior I and Senior II tests, sharing insights into international dressage standards.
The event also offered aspiring judges from Namibia and South Africa an opportunity to develop their judging skills. The final international comparisons will be determined once all participating countries have completed their competitions. Pictures Contributed.
By Rudi Bowe
