SA Saddle Horse 6th Edition - Flipbook - Page 7
She was never alone on this journey. Every step of
Then came 2025, the year everything came
the way, Suretha was supported by her close-knit
together.
family, at the heart of which stood her husband,
Johannes Maasdorp. Much more than a farrier,
At the National Saddlebred Championships, The
Johannes was her groundsman, teammate, and
Emperor’s Son, Sonny stepped into the ring not
greatest cheerleader. Together, Suretha and
just as a competitor but as the embodiment of
Johannes became renowned for their impeccable
thirteen years of belief, discipline, and love. With
tack and turnout, with their horses always
his
standing out for their presence and presentation.
unmistakable
Johannes’s unmatched attention to detail was
captivated the crowd and judges alike. In that
evident in every polished finish and steady hand
unforgettable moment, he claimed the title of SA
behind the scenes.
Grand Champion Three-Gaited Horse, the highest
ears
forward,
eyes
bright,
high-stepping
and
that
brilliance,
he
honor in their division.
His hands did more than shape Sonny’s hooves
and craft his shoes. He sculpted the rhythm and
It was a triumph born from vision and belief. A
balance Sonny carried into the show ring. With
tribute to Piet Möller, the breeder and brother
every careful shoeing, every reset, and every quiet
who gave this journey its beginning. A celebration
show-day moment, Johannes helped build not just
of Suretha Maasdorp’s unwavering commitment as
the foundation of a champion, but the emotional
trainer, owner, and horsewoman. And a reflection
core of the team. He was there in the early
of Johannes Maasdorp’s dedication as farrier,
mornings and late nights, adjusting tack, offering
groundsman, and the quiet soul of the team.
encouragement, and ensuring everything behind
the scenes ran smoothly. His belief in Suretha and
This victory was not Sonny’s alone. It belonged to
Sonny never wavered.
a family who poured their hearts into one
extraordinary horse. Who loved him into greatness.
As The Emperor’s Son matured, he was never
he learned to move with brilliance, to show with
A champion is not only bred or trained.
He is built through loyalty, care, and the
unbreakable bond of those who believe in
him every day.
charisma, and to perform with the fire and
The Emperor’s Son, affectionately known as Sonny,
elegance
is more than a Grand Champion.
rushed. His training was a thoughtful and
deliberate process that honored his individuality
and respected his development. Under Suretha’s
expert guidance, kind heart, and calm leadership,
that
define
a
true
Three-Gaited
champion. And throughout it all, Johannes stood
He is living proof of what is possible when a
beside them, the silent, steady force who kept the
dream is carried not only by one person but by a
dream alive.
family,
a
generations.
legacy,
and
a
love
that
spans
