Young Showjumper Bo Reed Earns South Africa’s Dakar 2026 Nomination

Photo Credit: South Africa Show Jumping - Supplied

The talented young rider has secured her place at the Youth Olympic Games following an impressive selection event.

South Africa (30 June 2026) – South Africa Showjumping’s growing presence on the international stage continues to gather momentum, with another milestone added to the country’s recent success in the sport.

After South African riders impressed at prestigious Nations Cup events in Portugal and Poland in recent weeks, young showjumper Bo Reed has now earned South Africa’s nomination for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.

The talented rider booked her place after producing the strongest performance at the country’s final selection event, where adaptability proved just as important as technical ability.

Unlike a traditional competition, riders first completed an eight-fence course on their own horses before switching mounts with fellow competitors. With only a three-minute warm-up allowed before each round, competitors had to quickly build trust with unfamiliar horses while maintaining high performance standards.

Photo Credit: South Africa Show Jumping – Supplied

Reed rose to the occasion, producing a series of composed and consistent rounds that highlighted both her riding ability and horsemanship under pressure.

She finished ahead of fellow finalists Chazelle Smith, Claudia Wagner and Jaimie-Lee Joseph, all of whom were praised for their determination and performances throughout the selection event.

Her qualification means she is now set to represent South Africa at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, scheduled to take place in Senegal from 31 October to 13 November 2026. The event will be a historic one, becoming the first Olympic event to be hosted on African soil, with only one showjumping rider selected to represent each country.

Reed’s achievement also reflects the work of coach Ronnie Healy, whose guidance has played a key role in her development as one of the country’s brightest young equestrian talents.

With South African showjumping continuing to make its mark internationally, Reed’s qualification adds another encouraging chapter.