Twin riders chasing their dreams, from South Africa to Europe with Cieli Equestrian.
At Cieli Equestrian, we’re proud to support young talent who embody our values of perseverance, authenticity, and empowerment. Meet Holly and Sophie Cox — 14-year-old twin sisters from Cape Town, South Africa, who are making waves in showjumping and eventing both at home and in Europe. In this exclusive Q&A, they share their journey, proudest moments, and how they live the Cieli lifestyle in and out of the saddle.
🌟 Sophie Cox
Born: Durban, South Africa
Lives in: Cape Town, South Africa
Competes in: Showjumping & Eventing
Instagram: @scc_equestrian
Top Cieli Product: Willow Zip-Up Hoodie — “The fabric is amazing, it fits so nicely, and it goes with everything.”
🌟 Holly Cox
Born: Durban, South Africa
Lives in: Cape Town, South Africa
Competes in: Showjumping & Eventing
Instagram: @rsh_eventing
Top Cieli Product: Cieli Base Layers — “They’re comfortable, breathable, and make you look amazing no matter what!”
🐎 Getting Started
Q: Can you tell us a little about yourselves and how you first got into horse riding?
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Sophie: I am 14 years old and I have a twin sister. I first got into riding when I was 2, then stopped for 4 years, and started again after Covid.
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Holly: I’m 14 and go to the American International School of Cape Town. I’ve been riding since I was two and always dreamed of the Olympics. It started when I asked my parents to let me ride and we went to Hout Bay Riding Centre 2–3 times a week.
🌍 Dreams Abroad
Q: What inspired you to pursue showjumping in the UK?
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Sophie: I’ve always wanted to ride overseas. When our first riding teacher, Lara Wallace, moved abroad and started working with Ins Showjumpers, we got the chance to train and compete in the UK.
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Holly: It was similar for me — Lara was very close to us, and when she introduced us to Ins Showjumpers, it opened the door to riding in Europe.
🏆 Proudest Moments
Q: What have been your proudest moments in your riding careers so far?
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Sophie: Winning the Open Pony Rider Eventer Champion of 2024, becoming 1m Junior Champion 2024, and coming 2nd in my first 1.30m.
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Holly: Winning with Jinny at my first 1.20m, placing again the next weekend, and winning a big class at my first ever show in Dinard, France. Another highlight was placing 2nd and 3rd at my first LGCT in London — at only 14!
👯 Twin Power
Q: As twins, how does your bond influence the way you train, compete, and support each other?
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Sophie: There’s healthy competition between us, but we also support each other.
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Holly: We love cheering each other on — but yes, the competitiveness keeps us sharp!
🌟 Role Models
Q: Who are your role models in the equestrian world?
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Sophie: My coaches, Mandy Mason in Cape Town and Tim Wilks in the UK. They always support me and help make my dreams come true.
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Holly: Both Tim Wilks and Mandy Mason inspire me to work harder, never give up, and follow my dreams.
💪 Perseverance & Motivation
Q: Riding often requires perseverance — how do you stay motivated during tough times?
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Sophie: I stay motivated by keeping my goals in mind. Even though challenges come, I know I’ll get through them.
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Holly: We always focus on the long-term goals. If it were easy, everyone would do it. The tough times make us stronger.
📚 Balancing Life
Q: How do you balance school, social life, and riding?
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Sophie: Our school is very understanding of our goals. Most of my friends come from riding, so it balances naturally.
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Holly: Same for me — school has been incredibly flexible, and our riding friends have become our social circle.
🌍 African Roots
Q: As South Africans competing in the UK, how do your roots influence your journey?
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Sophie: I really appreciate all the places we travel to and am proud to ride as a South African.
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Holly: Growing up in Africa makes us appreciate all the opportunities we get. We’re very proud to represent South Africa and the continent.
🇪🇺 SA vs Europe
Q: What differences have you noticed between riding in South Africa and in Europe?
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Sophie: In Europe, everything runs on time, the show grounds are bigger, and the competition is tougher.
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Holly: The quality of facilities, riders, and horses is unmatched in Europe.
🌟 Inspiring Others
Q: How do you hope to represent South Africa and young female riders through this ambassadorship?
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Sophie: I want to be a role model for young riders — to show that riding is fun, hard work, and rewarding.
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Holly: I want to be a positive role model for young female riders and represent my country with pride.
🐴 Life Outside the Arena
Q: When you’re not riding, how do you like to spend your time?
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Sophie: With my family and pets, or watching videos of my horses 🤣
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Holly: I love reading about horses, learning about breeding, rewatching my rounds, swimming, fitness, and spending time with family.
🎯 Looking Ahead
Q: What are your goals, in and out of the saddle?
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Sophie & Holly: We dream of competing in the Olympics in 2032 and continuing to grow as both a riders and people.
We’re inspired by Holly and Sophie’s drive, resilience, and love for the sport — qualities that align with Cieli’s vision of empowering riders worldwide. As they chase their dreams in Europe while staying true to their South African roots, we’re proud to have them represent Cieli Equestrian. Follow their journeys on Instagram at @scc_equestrian and @rsh_eventing