One last bow for the dog who conquered the skies

COURAGE BEHIND THE SUIT | Magnus demonstrated his apprehension skills with HenCor decoy Themba Zulu, whose courage and commitment help prepare the dogs for demanding operational work.

Platinum Weekly newspaper | Rustenburg – Arrow may have retired from dangerous missions, but Rustenburg’s four-legged legend still knows how to command a crowd.

Families gathered at President Hyper on Saturday, 22 August 2026, for a tactical working-dog demonstration by HenCor Tactical Solutions — and for Arrow’s final public appearance. Now 16 years old, the DDR German Shepherd enjoyed a hero’s welcome from supporters who came to meet the dog whose courage once carried him from the African bushveld into the skies.

Arrow was trained by his owner and handler, Henry Holsthyzen, in obedience, tracking, protection and detection work. He served in anti-poaching operations, helped track suspects and could be rapidly deployed into difficult terrain. Unfazed by helicopters, he was also trained to rappel from aircraft while secured to Henry.

On 17 September 2016, their extraordinary partnership made history. Henry and Arrow jumped together from a helicopter flying 6,000 feet – approximately 1,828 metres – above Air Force Base Waterkloof. Arrow was subsequently recognised by Guinness World Records as the world’s first skydiving anti-poaching dog.

Saturday’s event also offered visitors a glimpse into the next generation of working K9s. HenCor’s trained dogs demonstrated their discipline, agility and apprehension skills, with decoy Themba Zulu bravely stepping into the protective suit for the action-packed display.

Henry thanked Crazy Pets and President Boulevard for arranging and hosting the occasion, as well as the Rustenburg community for supporting Arrow. He also paid tribute to his wife and HenCor co-owner, Charné Holsthyzen; their son and general manager, Jan-Hendrik Holsthyzen; and Themba for his courage and commitment.

Arrow’s public appearances may have ended, but his story continues to soar — a remarkable legacy built on courage, service and the unbreakable trust between a man and his dog.

For more information about HenCor Tactical Solutions, contact Henry on 060 695 3054.