Zebaldt Ngaruka
About 78 top Namibian race horses are expected to compete in the May Derby competition in Otjinene constituency of Omaheke region, slated for tomorrow.
The competition, under the auspices of the Namibia Horse Racing Association, is organised by thec Otjinene Supporters Club (OSC), who put aside a cash sponsorship of N$120 000 as well as trophies and medals.
Progarius Katjauana Muriambihu, a member of the organising committee, said everything is set as the region’s north-eastern settlement as horses started arriving on Thursday.
“This is one of the biggest sporting events in the region, and we expect a high turnout. Our turf is in good condition, as we surfaced it recently to fit the occasion,” he said.
Muriambihu added that horses will compete in 18 sprints, where the last two plates are known to be the main races of the competition.
The distance for both Thoroughbred and the Nambred horses is 2000 metres.
“As I am talking now, all accommodation outlets are fully, booked, and we made provision at our turf to accommodate those who can camp there,” added Muriambihu.
“The seasoned race horses like Starlile, Mr F. Jazzagal, Visigoth, Able Surprise, Lady Diamond, Boma and Sunny Side will be present in Otjinene.
I only know of Freedom Fighter of Uaraa Tjiho which gave birth recently, but other top horses will land tomorrow for the competition,” he added.
Otjinene-based horses Equerry, Earl of Cardigan and Chief Helmet are expected to do well on their home ground.
D-Division newcomer Cut the Corner is also expected to shine in its new category with the likes of Bright Eye, Talk to Me, Destiny, Silence Love, Resolution 435 and Black Beauty.
In addition to the races, horse fanatics will be entertained by a boxing event today that will start at 19h00, while tomorrow, the popular Oviritje concert group called MBM and Shepherd Muhaindjumba will entertain the crowd between intervals.
The charge at the gate is N$50 for adults while children and motor-vehicles will pay N$20 and N$10, respectively.
VIPs will fork out N$100. The first race is expected to start at 10h30 tomorrow.
– zngaruka@yahoo.com