“To the World You Were The King of Horses, To Us You Were Dad,” Arthur Mafokate Mourns His Father
“To the World You Were The King of Horses, To Us You Were Dad,” Arthur Mafokate Mourns His Father. On a sad note, we share the news of Enos Mafokate’s passing. He was South Africa’s first Black show jumper who went on to found the Soweto Equestrian Centre to teach the children of Soweto how to care for and ride horses. The nation has joined the Mafokate family with touching tributes to the man who broke many barriers.
Early Life
Mafokate spent his early years in life working on a farm in the country side. He worked as a groom for the horses and that is where he found his love for the animal. While working on the farm he was offered the chance to learn how to ride. In 1975 he enrolled at the Marist Brothers College to perfect his showjumping skills. In 1992 he attended the Olympics as a sports ambassador for South African show jumping. Mafokate was South Africa’s first black international riding champion and used that influence to start the Soweto Equestrian Foundation.
“Today, I say goodbye to my father, Enos Mafokate. 💔
There are moments when words simply cannot carry the weight of what one is feeling. This is one of them.
To the world, you were Kgosi ya Dipere — The King of Horses, a pioneer who broke barriers and opened doors for generations that came after you.
To us, you were Dad.
I will forever be proud to be your son, proud of the life you lived, the battles you fought and the legacy you leave behind.
You have taken your final ride, Ntate.
Rest peacefully, Daddy. Your legacy will live on forever. 🕊️,” Arthur said.
