Zebaldt Ngaruka
The Namibia Horse Racing Association (NHRA) held its annual general meeting (AGM) on Saturday in the capital to set the tone for the upcoming racing season.
In a media statement, the association’s spokesperson, Chantelle Mouton, said the AGM brought together representatives from affiliated clubs across the country, reflected on the progress and mapped a way forward.
She stated that key governance issues were handled, including approving previous AGM and general meeting minutes, along with presenting the presidential and financial reports.
“Discussions also focused on strengthening operational structures, reviewing rules and regulations, and enhancing development and fairness within the sport,” she said.
Important amendments were approved, mainly concerning juvenile Racing regulations and how prize money is divided, to maintain alignment with best practices and support athlete development.
Furthermore, the AGM reviewed NHRA-hosted and sponsored race events since 2020, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring an equitable distribution of race events across all regions.
A provisional racing schedule of 11 events for the upcoming season was noted, with the Independence Race in Gobabis confirmed as the official season opener.
The horse racing association confirmed that its current MTC sponsorship lasts until the end of September this year. The executive committee plans to engage with MTC in the coming weeks to discuss extending the partnership.
Additionally, the public relations officer and the secretary general’s offices are actively reaching out to potential new sponsors to promote the growth of horse racing in Namibia.
Most importantly, NHRA is eager to start the year and ensure full compliance with the Namibia Sports Commission.
“This will be a milestone mark and a step forward in strengthening governance, credibility, and national recognition of horse racing in Namibia,” she said.
NHRA, with renewed momentum, is eager for an exciting and competitive racing season that will foster professionalism, inclusivity, and sustainable growth of the sport across the country. – zngaruka@yahoo.com