Nissan South Africa (Nissan SA), in partnership with the Gauteng Horse Society (GHS), is once again hosting the annual Nissan Easter Festival which is taking place at the Kyalami Equestrian Park between the 16th and 27th April.
The Nissan-sponsored show includes a number of equestrian and family-fun events over its 10-day run. Featuring the Easter Carnival, Inter Africa Cup, and the Stal van Decraen young riders’ dressage and jumping series (whose winner will be given the opportunity to train and compete on the European circuit), the show has become a firm favourite on the equestrian calendar.
Panayiotis Stais, chairman of the Gauteng Horse Society, said the show had gone from strength to strength since transferring from the Rand Easter Show 10 years ago. “We are largely dependent on outside sponsors and we are particularly grateful to Nissan SA for its contribution in raising the profile of the event and attracting more interest in equestrian sports.”
Nissan SA says its sponsorship of the show has provided an entry into the horse riding arena, which is an ideal platform to showcase its LCV and SUV range of vehicles. “Anything that is outdoor-oriented really suits our profile of vehicles in terms of outdoor family lifestyle so it’s a great brand fit for us,” said Nissan’s product manager Ross Garvie. “A lot of visitors to the show really appreciate the opportunity to test-drive vehicles which may lend themselves to equestrian pursuits.”
A number of Nissan SUV and LCV models will be on display at the Bernard McHardy Arena from the 22 to 25 April and on 27 April. Test-drive participants will get a chance to win a prize in the lucky draw which takes place after the prestigious Outdoor Grand Prix of South Africa on the final day of the festival (27 April).
Nissan SA has expanded its sponsorship into other areas of equestrian sport including the 2011 Riders Showjumping Championship – a premier equestrian sporting event hosted by the GHS later this year – in which the winner will receive a Nissan Navara worth R400, 000. It is also supporting Team Nissan through sponsorship of a group of riders who take part in countrywide events.
