Zebaldt Ngaruka 

GOBABIS – The Namibia Horse-Racing Association (NHRA) continues to grow, as various racing clubs are adding to its value. 

One such club is the Omaheke region’s Epukiro Racing (ER) under the auspices of Iritjiua Murangi, who recently bought a thoroughbred horse named Sitting Bull.

ER lost popular hors, Katjutju, and has been relying on Bright Eye in races. But they have now added Sitting Bull to their club. The latter made a debut at the recent Okahandja Winter Derby, and did not disappoint the club’s fan base, as it delivered an outstanding performance in the main race.

The thoroughbred horse scooped the third position in both A Division 1000 metres (m) and Import Open 1600 m sprints, something which impressed the club supporters.

One of the club supporters, Celle Katjivikua, said the new horse showed a high level of energy.

“This is a good horse for the club. We will reap fruits from it, and other clubs must know that ER will give them a run for their money,” said Katjivikua.

Another club member, Ngairorue Hangero, was impressed by the horse.

“This is good for competition. The new horse looks promising, and we will give more support to the club and attend more events,” he added.

Meanwhile, the spokesperson of ER, Ngatuuane Hange, said they will start hosting more competitions in the constituency after hosting them in Gobabis and Okahandja in the past.

The club’s preparations for the popular July Handicap are underway, and the two club horses are expected to shine in their respective categories.  

Hange also emphasised that the ER supporters can also order t-shirts and caps in advance, as tracksuits are also available and that they will be issuing supporters with membership cards soon. 

In addition, Gam Horse Racing also purchased two thoroughbred horses that will make their debut at the popular FNB July Handicap, slated for the Otjozondjupa region.

The club, under the leadership of Otjozondjupa governor James Uerikua, had one horse named Black Beauty, and the two new horses will be of significance to the club in the future. -zngaruka@yahoo.com