Equestrian Easter festival makes its way to Kyalami Park Club

Kyalami Park Club welcomed competitors from as far as Botswana, Namibia, Swaziland and Zimbabwe.

April 5, 2023

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A prize-giving ceremony at the Toyota Easter Festival at Kyalami Park Equestrian.

The Toyota Easter Festival which has been running since 1975, is set to take place from April 1 to 10.

Kyalami Park Club event director Heather Mpofu said there was much to look forward to at the event. “Entry capacity was achieved days after the online entries opened and include competitors from Botswana, Namibia, Swaziland and Zimbabwe, which is a true reflection of the show’s significance and standing within the SA equestrian community and Southern Africa itself,” she said.

“The show continues to gain greater attendances, swelling prize purses and promoting tighter competition. It is an honour to have Toyota back in the saddle in our annual competition that celebrates world-class excellence.”

Vice president of marketing at Toyota South Africa Motors Glenn Crompton said they are proud to sponsor the festival at the Kyalami Equestrian Club for a second year. “Not only is the Easter Festival a great fit for Toyota at a time of the year when families traditionally come together, but we’re also especially excited to encourage the development of talented riders from disadvantaged backgrounds, who in many instances would not be able to further their careers without the tireless work of the club.”

Ronnie Healy in action at last year’s Toyota Easter Festival.

Aidan Lithgow, chairman of the Kyalami Park Club, said there would be something for everyone. The festival consists of dressage, equitation, showing and showjumping. “In partnership with Toyota, we present a show that is of international standard inside and outside of the competition ring,” he said.

“Equestrian sport is typically not well supported in South Africa, so rest assured we hold this partnership in the highest regard, and I know that the riders feel the same way.”
The SA Outdoor Grand Prix is set to take place on April 10 at the Bob Charter arena, which will feature a two-round competition. Kate Launder was the course designer. “The second round is a thrilling round against the clock, with more often than not just a second or two between the podium finishers. The stage is set for the continent’s best, including 2021 winner Nicole Horwood and 2022 winner Ronnie Healy, as well as many other top-ranked riders who can snatch victory come Easter Monday,” concluded Lithgow.

Show highlights include: