I will remain vocal all my life about the quality of horses that Ruconu (the brainchild of Mariann du Plessis) have provided us with, time & time again.

The horses we use at Pegasus Retreats, whether it was in the Delta (Botswana) with our operation pre-covid there, or currently in Mozambique and the Bushveld (Waterberg) - really NEED TO BE (note, not 'can be') surefooted, dependable and reliable to the utmost degree.

To be expected to carry different riders on a weekly basis, face wild game (be it for anti-poaching or safari-purposes) or swim in the sea where fish abound, really cannot be expected from simply any type of horse. The phrase 'horses for courses' takes on a literally life-depending approach with our business, and we cannot make a mistake in the type of horses we entrust our clients or volunteers with, under these extreme circumstances. Temperament and longevity in our choice of horse is key.

A normal 'show-pony' simply won't do, and that's why I believe in Mariann to be the best breeder in SA for our particular needs. With her holistic approach from 'Day 1' in sending out a well-rounded, brilliant horse from her stable yard to yours, you simply cannot go wrong. I will not be able to recommend another breeder in SA as highly for the Appaloosa-breed as I would her. We started our stud with young stock from numerous breeders, and Ruconu's horses stand out head and shoulders above the rest.

You really can never go wrong with a horse from their yard if you take care of it properly from thereon out!

Testimonials

A year ago searching for my dream horse I came across Ruconu Appaloosa Stud. Start chatting away telling Mariaan my journey with horses. Mariaan made my dreams come true with selling me Da Vinci, but with the whole purchase and waiting for Da vinci to come home, she listened and accommodated my needs and there was always a line of communication. Buying from Ruconu Appaloosa Stud was the best choice I've ever could have made and will support and recommend them a 1000%.

Thanks Mariaan for everything, you are such a special person and we can see that in each and every horses eyes there at your beautiful farm.

Therese

Shynelle

I have been riding and have owned horses for 51 years. A good riding horse must have an even temperament, and that is where Marianne’s horses excel. The way she raises these youngsters is the key to their success. They are people’s horses. I have 4 Ruconu horses at present. They are outstanding riding horses, have huge personalities, good feet and are an absolute pleasure to own. Life is too short not to own a quality horse.

Gawie

From the first time that I laid eyes on Sinatra in a video that a friend showed me, I was obsessed! The most beautiful, elegant horse with paces to match. Mariann and I got chatting and the idea of Sinatra coming down to Cape Town to do some dressage and showing with me was born. Lisa and I took the trip up to Clarens in the early part of 2023 to visit Ruconu stud and meet all the gorgeous horses, most importantly Sinatra. What a treat it was!!! The farm is absolutely idyllic, and we were so warmly welcomed by Ed and Mariann, we knew it was going to be difficult to limit our time on the farm to just one day. We met the magnificent Sinatra, and he was everything I expected and more – a tall and athletic beauty with a temperament to match. We spent some time in the mares and foals paddock meeting the moms and tots and we loved every minute, every one of the horses friendlier than the one before, just wanting loves and cuddles. Between the upbringing and hands-on approach of the stud and their natural super temperaments, the progeny really are guaranteed to be wonderful equestrian partners. “Spotty” as we fondly called Sinatra went off to Graham Winn for backing and then made his way down to Cape Town to kick off his competitive career. I had never ridden a stallion before, so I was understandably nervous about this new experience, particularly with a youngster of only four years of age. But my worry was soon eased, Sinatra was an absolute gentleman both under saddle, in the competition arena and in hand. We enjoyed a wonderful year of competition winning the WC Young Horse Dressage championship, another two victories in the warmup classes at SA champs as well as a 2nd in the SA Champs prelim freestyle and winning the Prelim Victor Ludorum. At the young horse showing competition early in 2024, a renowned showing judge said he had “perfect conformation”. I didn’t know much about the Appaloosa breed before meeting the Ruconu team, but I can truly say that I am now a firm fan!

Dawn

I met Mariann du Plessis by coincidence; however, it is no coincidence that she remains in my life and has become a great blessing. I find her to be a person of integrity, honesty, and complete focus on her goals.

This brings me to our shared interest: horses. I noticed that she has a clear vision of what she desires in terms of conformation, size, and temperament.

Mariann acquired a Thoroughbred stallion named ARGONAUT from me. He was not only a great racehorse but also impeccable in conformation. When visiting her stud, I was pleasantly surprised to see that all her horses were of the same high standard as ARGONAUT. I have no hesitation in believing that she will make a significant contribution to the equine industry.

Cash Truter