Cape Town—also known as Steve!—is the kind of horse you never forget. With his floppy, bunny-like ears and an undying love for bananas, he brings both charm and character to the barn. Ridden by Ella Cate Cousar at Central Sporthorses, Steve is more than just a show horse—he’s a trusted partner and a lovable companion.

Ella Cate shares her favorite memory with Steve: “It was at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show. We had two great rounds on the first day and earned a pair of 3rds. The second day we were both tired, and the rounds weren’t our best, but Steve still tried his hardest. That’s just who he is—he always keeps me safe and gives his all, no matter what.”

Steve came into Ella Cate’s life after a challenging period with other horses. Her trainer sent photos of him to her parents, and it was love at first sight—especially for her mom, who affectionately dubbed him “the bunny” because of his soft, floppy ears. “Trying him was the easiest decision I’ve ever made,” Ella Cate says. “He felt like home right away.” They’ve been leasing him since December 2023, and their bond has only grown stronger.

His favorite treat? Bananas—all day, every day.

Horses have always been part of Ella Cate’s world, thanks to her two older sisters who rode before her. “There isn’t really a day I can remember not being around horses,” she says. “The best part of leasing or owning a horse is building a bond—something really special that only grows with time.”

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Karinda K. is a Houston, TX based equine photographer that travels around the United States photographing equestrians and their horses. Karinda specializes in Outdoor Horse & Rider Portrait sessions that bring to life the magical relationship equestrians share with their horses, Senior Portraits, and Fine Art Black & White Background Portraits for those that want a piece of art featuring their very own animals. 

Interested in Reserving a Portrait session? Schedule an Info Call Here. 

Portraits for Charity was an idea Karinda dreamt up to help give back to families impacted by Childhood Cancer in memory of her husband’s sister Jessica.

If you are interested in having Karinda attend your event and host a Portraits for Charity day, send an email to equine@karindak(.)com.

Need to Contact Karinda? Email us at equine@karinda(.)com or call us at (8 3 2) 598-8715

Information shared in this blog is based on information collected at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show, if for any reason this information is incorrect and you would like your horse’s blog post updated, please notify us via email.