The sound of hooves carried a deeper meaning today as the Hollywood Foundation, in partnership with Race Coast, officially unveiled newly upgraded facilities for the South African Riding for the Disabled Association (SARDA) at the South African Jockey Academy (SAJA) in Summerveld.

The project, part of the four-year legacy of the Hollywood Foundation, represents more than just an infrastructure upgrade, it is a gateway to dignity, independence, and joy for children living with physical and intellectual disabilities.

“The sponsorship from the Hollywood Foundation means so much to SARDA Durban. Since our recent move to the SA Jockey Academy in Summerveld, it has been essential for us to provide accessible facilities for children with different abilities.

– Libby Durke, Chairperson of SARDA Durban

SARDA, a volunteer-run non-profit organisation, offers equine-assisted therapy where specially trained horses help children improve mobility, build confidence, and strengthen emotional resilience. In 2024, the organisation relocated to SAJA, gaining access to world-class equestrian facilities. However, gaps in accessibility limited the participation of some children.

Recognising this need, the Hollywood Foundation initiated a project to enhance accessibility, resulting in the installation of wheelchair-friendly ramps, levelled and paved pathways to the riding arena, lowered wash basins, and fully refurbished ablution facilities. These changes ensure that every child can safely and comfortably access life-changing therapy sessions.

“For children who face daily barriers, these changes mean something profound, the ability to arrive at a therapy session without the fear of uneven ground, inaccessible toilets, or unsafe surfaces. It’s about removing obstacles so that each child can focus on healing and growth. When we talk about community upliftment, we mean creating spaces where everyone, regardless of ability, can participate fully and without compromise.”

Devin Heffer, Hollywoodbets Brand and Communications Manager

The project also adds to the Foundation’s broader investment into SAJA, which has benefited from R1.7 million in infrastructure upgrades to improve living and learning conditions for apprentice jockeys, many of whom are bursary recipients of the Future Is Bright programme.

Stephen Marshall, Events and Marketing Executive at Race Coast, added: “Accessibility is not a luxury, it is a right. With every ramp built and pathway laid, this project ensures that right is realised. Through partnerships like this, we are breaking down barriers and building communities that welcome all.

Libby Durke thanked the Hollywood Foundation’s generous support, saying two toilets have been renovated, and a wheelchair-accessible path has been installed down to the Arena, where Therapeutic Horse-Riding Lessons are taking place. She says the support helps them “continue prioritising the needs of these special children.”

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