Nineteen-year-old Bianca van Niekerk is proving that passion, perseverance and a love for racing know no gender boundaries as she rises to prominence as one of the few, if not the only, female jockey in Namibia.
In a groundbreaking performance at this past weekend’s Independence Horseracing Cup competition, Van Niekerk claimed third place aboard Robyn from the Tsumis Race Club – a thoroughbred stallion owned by her father.
The race was a memorable moment in her burgeoning career as she took third place in the Juvenile 1 200metre category.
“This race meant a lot to me. It was an opportunity to not only prove my capabilities, but to truly embrace the sport and show that I can give it my best,” she shared with a beaming smile.
For Van Niekerk, horseracing isn’t just a sport, it’s a deep connection with the animals and the track that fuels her passion. “I loved every moment of it. The thrill of the race, the bond with the horse, and the energy of the track, it’s something I deeply cherish,” she said.
However, her journey to the racetrack hasn’t been easy. The 19-year-old revealed that the greatest challenge she has faced so far was silencing the negative voices around her. “People said a girl couldn’t ride, and that I wouldn’t be good enough. But instead of letting that discourage me, it made me more determined to push myself and finish the race. I wanted to prove them wrong, and show that I can achieve my dreams.”
This weekend’s event marked only her second appearance in an official race. Her first was when she was just 13 years old at an event in Tjaka, located a few kilometres outside of Gobabis. Back then, her father had allowed her to ride his horse, Ignas, but her mother, worried about her age, banned her from participating. However, Bianca’s passion for racing never waned, and now, years later, she’s back – older, wiser, and determined to leave her mark on the sport.
Growing up around horses was a natural part of her life. Both of her parents were jockeys, who enjoyed riding. “I’ve been around horses since I was very young. My parents, especially my father, taught me how to ride, and how to understand the animals. I train with horses every morning, and I just love the thrill of sport. It’s something I will never get tired of.”
Looking to the future, Bianca has big plans. She hopes to one day breed horses, specifically a breed known for its smooth ride, ideal for children and older people. “I want to breed Tennessee Walkers – horses that are gentle and easy to ride, with a smooth gait,” she said with excitement in her voice.
Bianca also has words of encouragement for young girls dreaming of breaking into male-dominated fields: “My advice to young girls is never let fear stand in your way. Face it head-on because you only live once.
The past may hurt, but it’s your choice—whether you run from it or learn from it. Always feed your soul, not your ego. Speak from the heart, not from the mind. Observe and grow.”
With a heart full of ambition, the jockey envisions a future where she is a professional jockey, competing at a national level and making her mark on the sport she loves.
“I see myself becoming a professional jockey in the future, traveling the country and doing what I love most. I want to be a woman who never stops fighting for her dreams, no matter the obstacles in her way.”
-lmupetami@nepc.com.na