Riding with Pride: Potch Girls High Equestrian Heads to SA Youth Champs
- Yolandi Botes
- Jul 9
- 3 min read
A school that builds leaders, The High School for Girls Potchefstroom
Founded in 1905, The High School for Girls Potchefstroom is one of the oldest English-medium girls’ schools in the North West. With a proud tradition of academic excellence, sport, and cultural achievement, the school instils values of integrity, responsibility and self-belief in every learner. At Potch Girls High, young women are prepared not just for the classroom, but for life.
Franka Kempen gallops into national spotlight
One such learner, Franka Kempen, is fast becoming a name to remember in the South African equestrian community. Franka has been selected to represent the North West Showing Team at the prestigious SA Youth Champs, taking place from 27 June to 5 July at Kyalami in Gauteng.
This national honour is a testament to her commitment, consistency and bond with her horse, Fort Benton, a partnership built through countless hours of training and competition.
Strong performances at SANESA qualifiers
Franka earned her spot through outstanding results at two SANESA (South African National Equestrian Schools Association) qualifiers hosted in Brits. In Qualifier 1, she competed in five events, earning both a 1st and a 3rd place. She followed this with a repeat performance in Qualifier 2, again competing in five events and claiming another 1st place, along with two 3rd places.
Such performances are not only competitive, but consistent; a rare quality in young athletes.
A rider and a teammate: Fort Benton leads the way
Franka's success is inseparable from her loyal teammate, Fort Benton. Together, they’ve formed a dynamic duo of power, elegance and trust. Whether in the show arena or cross-discipline events, their synergy has stood out to judges and fellow riders alike.
SA Youth Champs awaits
As Franka heads to Kyalami to compete against South Africa’s top young riders, she carries with her not only the North West colours, but the pride of Potch Girls High. Her school, peers and community are behind her all the way.
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