An ode to our equestrian guardians

Equestrian guards team leader Issac Mosikidi on Joe.

Frans Chikane on Rinkink with Issac leading Joe against a backdrop of the Innovation Centre.

In foreground, Isaac Mosikidi on Joe and in the background Frans Chikane on Rinkink.

The Innovation Hub is one of the few precincts, if not the only one in Pretoria, that can boast the presence of equestrian security guards. In fact, it is not uncommon for visitors to be greeted and ushered to their destination by a guard on horseback.

Security contactor, Thorburn Security Solutions, currently have four horses on patrol at the precinct: Joe, a pleasant 15-year-old stallion with a placid temperament and a favorite with visiting children; Rinkink, the 7-year-old stallion often at Joe's side who thoroughly enjoys a brush down at the end of the day; Diane, the only mare (lucky lady) in the group and a youngster at 4 plus years, who loves apples and nods her thanks for the treat and Storm, an energetic 4-year-old black stallion. Ounooi, Diane's mother, was recently retired from duty at The Innovation Hub to spend more time in greener pastures.

Our horse brigade has been on duty for the past three years. The care that the horses receive from the team assigned to them ensure that they are always in excellent health, high spirits and with an alert eye for any unwanted presence on their 'home' ground.

The equestrian guards, Issac Mosikidi, Franz Chikane and Thobela Mnyaka - thoroughly enjoy their horseback patrol duty and are justifiably proud of their mounts. Issac, who has been on horseback duty at the Hub for the past two and a half years and is an experienced rider, is the team leader. Franz is new to the team, after having seized the opportunity some months ago to become a horseback patrol officer.

George Chivalala, the groom that is responsible for ensuring that bedding, food and hygiene standards are maintained, is an important member of the team. According to Issac, although his role is often under-estimated, George is their cornerstone - ensuring the wellness of the horses and the smooth functioning of the team.

The equestrian team members have a strong bond with their horses and are very aware of what the horses - similar to their riders - enjoy and dislike. Says Issac: "It is important to constantly communicate with your horse. They are easily upset if they are late for lunch, and quite put out if they don't get a pat for a job well done. It is our duty to make sure that the horses understand what is happening and what is expected of them".

Franz is a motivation to us all. "I wanted to be part of this team and set myself a goal - I worked really hard to make my dream come true."

The tenants at the Hub certainly support and appreciate the presence of the equestrian team at the precinct - it gives the campus an 'out-of-city' lifestyle feeling, and usually prompts a smile with which to start the day.

[Back to top]

Next