Southern African Farriers Compete to Preserve Equine Craftsmanship
The Southern African Association of Professional Farriers (SAAPF) recently held its Interprovincial Championship in Bloemfontein, showcasing the skills of farriers in maintaining the health and performance of horses. The event, part of the Bloem Show from April 23 to 25, 2026, featured competitions across four classes: novice, intermediate, open, and plating. Participants demonstrated their expertise in crafting horseshoes and maintaining equine health, with the open class requiring the forging of custom tongs and horseshoes. The event highlighted the importance of farriery in the equine agricultural sector, with judges emphasizing the role of farriers in ensuring the proper function and balance of horse hooves. The competition also served as an educational platform, with workshops on blacksmithing and hoof care. 
