Zebalt Ngaruka
This Saturday, the Rehoboth Turf in the Hardap region will host the 15th edition of the Standard Bank Alex Angermund horseracing competition, honouring the late Alex Angermund, a pioneer of horseracing in Namibia. The event is one of the country’s largest sporting spectacles and is expected to attract various horseracing clubs and supporters.
Before Angermund’s contributions, rugby was the dominant sport in Rehoboth. However, his establishment of horseracing in 1967 transformed the local sporting landscape, making both rugby and racing popular.
Angermund played a crucial role in the breeding and development of racehorses before and after Namibia’s independence.
Standard Bank Namibia has allocated N$200 000 along with trophies for the winning horses. According to organiser Willem Lotsch, this year’s competition has attracted 120 racehorses competing in 17 races.
“This event reflects the significant impact that our late mentor Alex had on the sport. His legacy will live on, and we take pride in his role in establishing horseracing in Namibia,” said Lotsch. He noted that Angermund Racing (AR) has emerged as one of the leading clubs in the country, with horses that excel at both local and international levels.
AR’s top contenders include Queen Brittania, La Luvia, and Camarata, all of which are expected to perform well on Saturday. “We are confident our horses will challenge the competition, particularly Woodland Ridge, as it races on home ground,” Lotsch added.
However, he also recognised strong challengers such as Unbroken Promises, Earl of Cardigan, Starlile, Able Surprise, and Visigoth, emphasising the healthy competition among clubs. “This spirit fosters growth in the sport and camaraderie among horse enthusiasts,” he stated.
In previous races, Eamon Freygang’s horse, Mr. F, secured the main thoroughbred title, while the Nambred award went to Sunny Side from the Professor Supporters Club (PSC). All long-distance sprint winners will receive trophies and cash prizes. The main races will cover 1 400 metres, with N$30 000 up for grabs in both A and D divisions. There will also be open races for both imported and Nambred horses over a distance of 2 000 metres.
To motivate jockeys, a special cash prize of N$3 000 will be awarded to the jockey of the day, along with a trophy. Freygang expressed confidence in his horses’ performance, despite concerns about starting stalls. “While there are some worries, all my horses are sharper than ever,” he said, acknowledging competition from Woodland Ridge, Earl of Cardigan, and Starlile.
PSC’s Stone Katuuo stated that Sunny Side is well-prepared for the races ahead. “We’re coming from Botswana with high hopes and will give our all in Rehoboth. Besides Sunny Side, we have three other horses competing,” he mentioned.
The day will begin with a meeting for horse owners at 9h00, followed by the first race at 9h30. Attendees can enjoy live DJ entertainment and performances by the One Blood music group during intermissions. Entry fees are N$50 for adults, N$20 for children, N$10 for cars, and N$100 for VIP access.
– zngaruka@yahoo.com