Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) officially launched the 2026 Toyota Equestrian Series at the prestigious Kyalami Park Club on February 18, continuing its four-year partnership driving equestrian sport in South Africa.

Redhill School’s equestrian team is eager to take part in the series, building on their skills and gaining exposure to top-level competition.

Riders Sarah Friend, Layah Gliksman, Imaan Gany, Shayla Sachs, Lulo Notshe, Ineś Balipursad, Hannah Benjamin, Gabriella Ortlepp, and Harper Bate expressed excitement about the upcoming season and the opportunity to learn from other competitors. For Shayla, competing at a high level is not just about winning; it’s about pushing herself, representing Redhill School, and growing both as a rider and as a person.

Read more: Kyalami Nine Hours countdown begins with star-studded launch

“It means a lot to ride for something bigger than just myself.” Before tackling a new course, Shayla focuses on connecting with her horse and calming her mind.

“I remind myself and my horse that we’re a team and we trust each other. Staying positive and focused helps us give our best together.” For Imaan, equestrian sport started with simple pony rides in the park during Covid, courtesy of her father. “I have always loved horses, and those rides sparked my riding obsession.” Imaan is particularly excited for the PriCaprilli event in the 2026 Toyota Equestrian Series.

“It’s a lot of fun, and I get to show off my technique with Charlie.”

One of her most memorable experiences so far is riding along the ocean in Mauritius with Charlie, a moment she describes as unforgettable.
Teamwork plays a big role in Imaan’s journey.

“I am fortunate to have classmates who also love to ride. We support each other and cheer each other on at Sanesa competitions.” For Hannah, inspiration comes from home; her mother, a seasoned rider with 43 years of experience, has been her guiding light in equestrian sport.

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“She’s been riding for so long, and seeing her passion has motivated me to follow in her footsteps.” This season, Hannah is focusing on showjumping, aiming to refine her technique and improve her precision. “I hope to learn how to make sharper turns while staying straight to the jumps.”

@caxtonjoburgnorth Shayla Sachs speaks about the Redhill equestrian team on February 19, 2026, in Morningside. Video: Duduzile Khumalo #caxtonlocalmedia #News #Community #Localnews #johannesburg #SA #Fyp #Sandton #2026 ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

Motivation, she notes, comes from both her horse and her coach.“Listening to them helps me push through tough days.”

She approaches challenges with a positive mindset. “You will have good and bad days, but you need the bad days before you can have the good.”

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