The 8th 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 join the hundreds of South African riders who will compete in a wide range of disciplines such as showing, equitation, dressage and showjumping at the Kyalami Equestrian Park from 8 to 17 April.
Show director, Kate Launder said over and above the 160 competition classes, there would be a whole host of entertainment and it’s all free.
“There are new events on the cards such as the Nissan Navara Challenge where our showjumping Superstars vs the Eventers All-stars, which takes place on Friday 14 April,” she said.
“There’s also the very popular Nissan Six Bar event as well as the Nissan Celebrity Fancy Dress on Easter Sunday and much more.”
Launder added that outside the arena, families could enjoy the ever-popular Easter-egg hunt, food markets, a car display, jumping castles and face painters. “Entrance is free and we encourage everyone to join us and enjoy a fabulous day out.”
The show will culminate in the SA Outdoor Grand Prix set to take place at 2pm on Easter Monday, with close to 5 000 fans expected to pack the stands and witness showjumpers tackle the 1.50m high jumps 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 courses 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 as well as 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.
Edited by Allan Robertson
