The eighth edition of the Nissan Easter Festival is set to be the best yet – not only for horse riders and horse lovers, but for friends and families from far and wide.
Equestrian athletes from countries such as Zimbabwe, Botswana, Swaziland, Zambia and Namibia will be joining the hundreds of South African riders who will be competing in a wide range of disciplines, such as showing, equitation, dressage and showjumping, at the Kyalami Equestrian Park, from April 8 to 17.
Show director Kate Launder said that over and above the 160 competition classes, there’s a whole host of entertainment and it’s all free.
“There are new events on the cards, such as the Nissan Navara Challenge which sees our showjumping Superstars vs the Eventers All-stars.
“This takes place on April 14.
“There’s also the very popular Nissan Six Bar event, as well as the Nissan celebrity fancy dress on Easter Sunday and many more.
“Outside of the arenas, families can enjoy the ever-popular Easter egg hunt, food markets, car display, jumping castles and face-painters.
“Entrance is free and we encourage everyone to join us and enjoy a fabulous day out,” said Launder.
The show will culminate in the SA Outdoor Grand Prix, set to take place at 2pm on Easter Monday (April 17), with close to 5 000 fans expected to pack the stands and witness showjumpers tackle the 1.50m high obstacles against the clock.
On board this year, and his first time building in South Africa, is FEI Level 3 course designer Marco Behrens, from Germany, who has built tracks around the world, including Germany, Emirates, Czech Republic and Slovakia.
Reigning champion Nicola Sime-Riley aims to defend her title on either of her two rides – Sunny Park Stables Elpaso and Fulvic Connoisseur.
Hot on her heals will be the 2012 and 2014 champion and Capital Stud rider Nicole Horwood riding Mark White Nissan Capital Don Cumarco.
Other competitors on form and aiming for a win will be Discovery rider Dominey Alexander; Anne-Marie Esslinger of Burlington Stables; Lisa Williams on Discovery Campbell and Team Nissan riders Lorette Knowles-Taylor and Barry Taylor.
In addition to the free entrance to the show, the all new Nissan Navara will be on display and available to test drive throughout the show.
The Nissan children’s area will be an action-packed fun-zone for children over the Easter weekend of Saturday, Sunday and Monday.
Kyalami Park is situated at 1 Dahlia Road, Kyalami.
For more information call 011 036-3320.
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