The Namibia Horse Racing Association (NHRA) is galloping into a thrilling new chapter, with fresh leadership and a host of exciting developments to shape the future of the sport in Namibia.
The stage was set on 22 February at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at St. Barnabas School Hall in Windhoek, where a new executive committee was elected, and several game-changing resolutions announced to elevate the sport to new heights.
The reins of the NHRA have been handed over to Gottfried Mootu, who has been elected president for the next two years. Mootu will lead a dynamic and experienced team determined to revitalise horse racing in Namibia.
Joining him in the quest for growth and professionalism are vice president Nicky Angermund, secretary general John Welhman, treasurer Mutu Katjiuanjo, public relations officer Chantelle Mouton, and several dedicated regional officers including Zuma Ewald Kaviombo (principal development officer) and Jamana Barto Ngava (Omaheke development officer).
This team is committed to restoring discipline, improving governance, and growing NHRA’s footprint both locally and regionally and with that the AGM was marked by critical decisions that promise to elevate the quality and structure of races while making the sport more rewarding for participants.
Mootu added that NRHA will see improved prize distribution with races with seven or fewer horses set to see prize money awarded to first, second and third places, while races with eight or more horses will extend payouts to fourth place.
“There will be a structured race calendar where race organisers must now apply for event dates with proof of funds to avoid last-minute scheduling changes and calendar congestion. Non-affiliated clubs will no longer be allowed to race under NHRA events, ensuring compliance and accountability.
“On top of that, a seven-day learning trip to South Africa is in the pipeline to allow NHRA officials to study best practices in racing administration, track maintenance and jockey development,” said Mootu.
First race set for the year
The NHRA’s first race of the season was also announced and will take place on 29 March at the Independence Cup, hosted by Khomas Turf Club.
Despite these plans, the NHRA identified key challenges that need immediate attention: limited sponsorship and funding.
“Many clubs struggled to pay affiliation fees, creating financial strain on NHRA’s operations. NHRA is looking to engage potential sponsors to secure race day funding, jockey support and horse care sponsorships. Issues such as overlapping race dates, inconsistent weight enforcement and poor discipline among jockeys led to disputes, prompting the exco to establish a new disciplinary committee,” the president said.
In addition, Mootu said NHRA is dedicated to making the sport more exciting, rewarding, and transparent and thus invites businesses and sponsors to come on board and help grow horse racing in Namibia to world-class standards.
-lmupetami@nepc.com.na