South African Youth Champs 2025 – Two Horses, Two Disciplines, One Big Goal
- Mia Lerchl

- Jun 4, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Dec 30, 2025
The time has finally come– on June 26, the next big chapter of this riding season begins: I’m off to Johannesburg to compete at the South African Youth Championships – one of the most exciting and important youth events in the South African equestrian calendar. And honestly? I can’t wait to be part of this incredible show experience!

I'm full of energy, full of anticipation – and most of all, full of motivation. It’s going to be a real multi-discipline adventure for me, as I'm competing in two equestrian sports: Show jumping and Equitation – with two horses that are simply special to me. They are powerful, focused, and always give their all.
Two Strong Partners
With my athletic Warmblood gelding, White Queen’s Cartier Z, I’ll be competing in the 1.10 m show jumping class as well as in equitation. Cartier has made amazing progress over the last few months – in fact, we just placed 3rd in the Junior Intermediate class at the Western Cape Equitation Championships this past May. His calmness, precision and talent for harmonious movements make him the ideal partner for the technical challenges of equitation – and of course, for fast, clear jumping rounds too.

Also on board in Johannesburg: Generation X, my powerful and ambitious thoroughbred mare. We’ll be competing in the 1.20 m show jumping class – a level that challenges us, but also pushes us to grow. Generation X not only brings power and bravery, but also an incredible joy of jumping and speed. Our journey together has been something really special – and I’m so proud to to be competing with her at a championship like this.

Western Cape Team – A Huge Honor
One thing that makes these South African Youth Champs extra special: I’ve been selected for two official Western Cape teams!
For the 1.20 m show jumping class, I have been selected for the Western Cape Show jumping Team as the 5th rider – the reserve spot. Sure, that means I might not ride in the team rounds – but just being nominated at this level is a huge honor for both me and Generation X. It shows that the hard work we’ve been putting in is being seen and valued.
And that’s not all: I’m also representing the Western Cape Junior Intermediate Equitation Team – with White Queen's Cartier Z. Equitation isn’t just about technique, it’s about harmony, rhythm, and connection between horse and rider. Cartier is made for moments like these – and I’m so excited to ride him in a championship setting.
Excitement & Big Dreams
The South African Youth Champs run from June 28 to July 6, 2025 – nine days packed with emotion, competition, team spirit, and equestrian sport at its finest. I’m looking forward to showing what I’ve been working on, learning from every round, and maybe even surprising myself. This championship is so much more than just a show – it’s a place where young riders from all over South Africa come together, driven by passion, ambition, and the love of the sport.
Of course, I’m hoping for clear rounds, beautiful rides, and a spot on the leaderboard – but what I’m most excited for is riding my amazing horses in a championship atmosphere, sharing our partnership with others, and growing through every experience.
Stay Tuned!
I'll be taking you with me on this incredible journey – from the build-up and training days to the first courses and unforgettable team moments. There’s no doubt: This is going to be one for the books!





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