Johannesburg, 14 February 2025 – In a thrilling partnership with Kyalami Park Club, Toyota South Africa is set to elevate equestrian sport to new heights in 2025. Declared the Year of the Legend, this initiative promises to celebrate equestrian icons past and present, while setting the stage for future champions. With bigger prizes, greater participation, and unmatched entertainment, Toyota reaffirms its commitment to the pursuit of excellence in the equestrian world.
Building on the resounding success of last year’s Toyota Triple Crown, the stakes have been raised even higher. For the first time, the prestigious Olympic discipline of dressage will join showjumping in Toyota’s support, acknowledging the dedication and skill required to excel in equestrian sport. Unlike many other sporting disciplines, the equestrian calendar demands year-round commitment from riders, grooms, owners, and officials. It is this passion and relentless drive that Toyota South Africa seeks to honour.
A Gathering of Equestrian Greats
The official launch of The Year of the Legend was graced by some of the sport’s most esteemed figures. Dressage icons Adriaan van Wyk, Karen Keller, and Helen Laros stood alongside showjumping luminaries Gail Foxcroft, Tony Lewis, and Barry Taylor. Their presence underscored the significance of Toyota’s unwavering support and the impact it has on the sport’s development.
“It’s difficult to put into words what Toyota South Africa Motors’ support means to the equestrian community,” said Heather Mpofu, Event Director at Kyalami Park Club. “Their backing enables us to elevate showjumping and dressage to unprecedented levels. This year, we honour our founding members, celebrate our current legends, and look to the future with great anticipation. The Year of the Legend, powered by Toyota, is about recognizing the riders, horses, grooms, officials, and volunteers who make this sport extraordinary.”
Raising the Bar: Toyota South African Dressage Championships
A highlight of the 2025 equestrian calendar, the Toyota South African Dressage Championships will take place at Kyalami Park Club from 15th to 21st September. This prestigious event will see South Africa’s top riders competing for the coveted national title.
In a groundbreaking move, Toyota will reward the 2025 South African Dressage Champion with a sleek Toyota Starlet Cross – the first time a prize of this magnitude has been offered in South African dressage history. With such a prestigious reward on the line, competition is expected to be fiercer than ever, attracting elite riders from across the nation in pursuit of glory.
“At Toyota South Africa, we believe in the unifying power of sport,” says Glenn Crompton, Vice President of Marketing at TSAM. “Our partnership with Kyalami Park Club aligns with Toyota’s ethos of excellence and perseverance. The Hilux Legend 55, an embodiment of strength and reliability, is a fitting symbol of this partnership. We are proud to Lead the Way with South Africa’s equestrian legends.”
Showjumping Excellence: A Legacy Continues
The showjumping calendar will be equally electrifying, with a series of prestigious competitions hosted by Kyalami Park Club. Kicking off with the fan-favourite Toyota Easter Festival, followed by the Toyota Midrand World Cup Qualifier, and culminating in the iconic Toyota South African Derby, the season promises to be an unforgettable spectacle.
Each of these events will test the mettle of competitors, rewarding only the most skilled and determined with a place in equestrian history. As a testament to Toyota’s commitment, the winner of the 2025 showjumping series will swap the saddle for another legendary ride – a brand-new Toyota Hilux D/C Legend, proudly sponsored by Toyota South Africa.
With an unparalleled commitment to equestrian excellence, Toyota South Africa is not just supporting the sport – it is shaping its future. As the Year of the Legend unfolds, Toyota and Kyalami Park Club stand together in honouring the past, celebrating the present, and inspiring the champions of tomorrow.
