Welcome to the Colesdale Team – Meet Jacques Kruger

For Jacques Kruger, it all began with two ponies at a truck stop in Ladysmith.

Growing up in humble circumstances with his mother, Jacques spent much of his childhood caring for the two resident ponies. He could never have imagined that those simple moments would spark a passion that would shape the rest of his life.

That passion eventually led him to respected farrier Ford Wallace, who recognised Jacques’ enthusiasm and gave him his very first opportunity in the farrier industry. Looking back, Jacques still credits Ford as the man who opened the first door and gave him the chance to build a career doing what he loves.

From there, Jacques continued learning under Selby Williamson, whose busy polo yard gave him invaluable hands-on experience. Working with large numbers of polo ponies taught him discipline, efficiency and attention to detail—skills that would become the foundation of his career.

Always searching for ways to improve, Jacques approached accomplished farrier and blacksmith Andy Tim with one simple question: “How do I become a better farrier?”

Andy introduced him to internationally recognised farriery examinations and explained that mastering forging was an essential part of becoming qualified. Determined to broaden his education, Jacques threw himself into the forge. Countless evenings, weekends and spare hours were spent standing at the anvil, practising, refining and learning. What began as preparation for an examination soon became a lifelong passion.

In 2011, Jacques sat his first internationally recognised farriery examination, judged by world-renowned farrier Chris Gregory. The experience left a lasting impression. Rather than seeing the examination as the finish line, Jacques saw it as the beginning. Meeting one of the world’s leading farriers inspired him to continue learning, keep competing and never become complacent in his craft.

Over the years, Jacques has earned internationally recognised qualifications through the Farrier International Testing System (FITS), the American Farrier’s Association and the Worshipful Company of Farriers (UK). Today, he runs a busy farriery practice specialising in sport horses, stud work, foal hoof care, limb management and forging, while also dedicating significant time to education, clinics and mentoring the next generation of farriers.

Having benefited from remarkable mentors throughout his own journey, Jacques is passionate about helping young farriers pursue internationally recognised qualifications, embrace lifelong learning and continue raising the standard of farriery in South Africa and beyond.

That vision is one we proudly share.

At Colesdale, we believe in craftsmanship, continual learning and supporting those who are dedicated to improving the welfare of horses and the future of our industry. Jacques embodies those values every day.

His journey—from caring for two ponies at a Ladysmith truck stop to becoming one of South Africa’s internationally qualified farriers—is a story of humility, perseverance and an unwavering commitment to excellence.