Rider Profile - Carley Uys 
A young rider from Zimbabwe, having recently made her move to South Africa is well on her way to making a mark! With several wins under her belt already and steadily climbing the grades, Carley is certainly a rider to keep your eye on!
Coming from an equestrian family, Carley was exposed to horses from a young age. Both her parents had horses and her sister in law is also an avid rider.
Inevitably, at 9 years old, Carley started her riding career with Carole Evans at Chapungu Equestrian Centre in Harare. Carley later went on to train Dressage with Martine Lambert and Showjumping with Charley Crockart.
She credits these instructors for her solid foundation from her early days as a rider.
Carley has competed in many disciplines, showjumping, dressage, eventing, showing, equitation and even polo! As a Child and Junior Rider, Carley represented Zimbabwe as a team member for the pony club on several occasions in Zambia and has a few titles to her name such as winning the FEI cat B for juniors in 2014 and the Seven Nations Elementary dressage in 2021 in Zambia on a loaned horse, Mattox Eye, owned by Kumari Holmes.
A Quick Q&A 
How do you balance your passion for horses with other aspects of your life?
“It’s not always easy, but I think I’m one of the luckiest girls in the world because I get to work as an instructor and keep my horse at Riba Stables. I also studied at the Beaulieu Equestrian Academy which is approximately 1km down the road from Riba. I have met some incredible people at Riba who I consider lifelong friends. The convenience of having my education, work and social life in close proximity has made the dream even more possible.”
Have you had any significant challenges or setbacks in your riding journey?
“My biggest challenge came when I left school, unsure of my path I gave up riding for 5 years and explored other passions such as art. I lived in Durban and Stellenbosch for a while and when COVID19 hit, I moved to Zambia and got back into riding thanks to connections I made through Pony Club. I strongly believe that if something is meant for you, you will always find your way back to it!”
Are there any specific horses that have made a significant impact on your on your riding career?
“Ive been lucky enough to ride so many amazing horses however, ‘John the Just’ has had the biggest impact on me. He was a Grey Thoroughbred who had a very unusual career path. He was an ex-racehorse who went on to play A-division polo, then eventing and then finally he was handed on to me for Showjumping. I jumped him in my junior years and I believe through his many careers that’s where he got his edge! He was quick, careful and could turn like no other. Being extremely forgiving he would allow me to make mistakes or take chances and always try his best to go clear. He made me brave and daring!”
How do you continue to improve your riding skills and knowledge?
“I do a lot of reading and research. The more I can break something down the easier it is to put it into practise. I also enjoy watching how others ride, especially the top riders.
I currently train with Kayla Gertenbach, who has taught me an incredible amount. She has expert advice, she knows how to encourage and challenge her riders and hosts regular clinics which help reset, re-evaluate and sharpen you up for upcoming competitions.”
What are your goals and ambitions for your riding right now?
“To produce my Thoroughbred, Sacred Arrow, to the Open grades.”
How do you ensure the well being and care of the horses you ride?
“I believe every horse, no matter the level, should have a programme that consists of training, fun and rest. Regular work and lessons should be supplemented with outrides, in hand work and of course, rest. A horse’s mental health is just as important as a rider’s.”
What advice would you give to aspiring riders who are just getting started on their journey?
“Do it because you love it. Do it because it’s fun. Do it because you love horses. To succeed in this sport you have to absolutely love what you do.”
What are your thoughts on the importance of the relationship between horse and rider?
“The biggest fault I can see with riders is the lack of trust and communication. The strongest partnerships are the ones that bare the most results.”
What are your future aspirations within the equine industry?
“The dream is to one day run my own yard with a string of competitive horses. I’d also like to explore other parts of equestrian life such as breeding, physio and farriery.”
