Zebaldt Ngaruka
PLESSIS PLAAS – The Namibia Horse Racing Association (NHRA), in collaboration with Mobile Telecommunications (MTC), will host a horse racing meeting called Summer Derby at Okahandja Turf tomorrow.
A total prize money of N$300 000 is up for grabs by the winning Nambred and Thoroughbred horses and jockeys at the event.
NHRA development officer, Zuma Kavirombo told New Era Sport that horses had been rested for a long time, and the race organizers expect a huge turnout in Okahandja, where horses will compete in 17 sprints.
“This will be a big event, and all the top horses are expected at Okahandja. The prizes on offer are exceptional, and everyone is aiming for glory, which is good for competition and the growth of this sport,” Kavirombo stated.
In addition to that, Kavirombo, who is also one of the organisers, emphasised that three thoroughbred horses will make their debut at the event.
“This sport is growing, and we always have the addition of new horses. There will also be eight Nambred horses that will compete in the maiden category,” explained the organiser.
For the first time in the history of the NHRA competitions, SPCA officials will be in attendance to look after the welfare of horses.
The main race will be over a distance of 2200 metres for both Nambred and Thoroughbred horses. Able Surprise of W.T. Christian and Professor Supporters Club’s Sunny won the main races last year and are expected to defend their titles this weekend. A prayer session will be held before the start of the competition in memory of the late President Hage Geingob, who was a sports icon. The entrance fee is N$50 for adults and N$20 for children. Cars will be charged an extra N$10, while VIPs will fork out N$100. The first race will start at 10h00. – zngaruka@yahoo.com