01 Oct 2024

Amid the sparse crowds, horse race fanatics immersed themselves in the evolution of the thunderous roar of the race and the elegance that was displayed at the annual horse race competition dubbed, Tshane Horse Race, Boipuso Derby.

With the event held at Tshane sports ground, more than 30 stallions and mares of indigenous finest breeds made an independence gift and massive gratification to the horse lovers.

The race brought in unparalleled exploration of the village, offering a perfect opportunity for spectators an adventure to come to, and also explore the elegance and insightful stories about the pans, which are the village identity.

Speaking in an interview with BOPA, Hukuntsi District Council, deputy chairperson, Kebaneilwe Mmesetse shared that she was impressed at the ability at which the horse race was able to unite people, adding that the race has been able to offer both sports competition and a unique cultural spectacle of the tactical skills from the jockeys.

She also indicated that these kind of events were crucial as they were fundamental to empowering the local business community, adding that they definitely go a long way in promoting small businesses.

She said as the council, they have advised that such initiatives should be assisted in terms of securing market, partnership and other measures that the council was in position to assist.

“We really support these events, we are hopeful that the organisers will further give a report to the council about the event so we can establish how best we can assist them,” she said.

For his part, Events Incorporated event organiser Ofentse Kgogobi shared that the aim was to provide entertainment for the community during activities.

Kgogobi said with the show being hosted annually, they have experienced that more needed to be done to improve its standard.

He cited insufficiency of funds and challenges in securing a reputable sponsorship as major set-backs that had contributed to the show’s stagnant growth.

Kgogobi however shared that they are optimistic that the race will grow over time, adding that they were in consultation with respective organisations to ensure that they operated professionally.

“We are currently with Botswana Horse Race Association, and Botswana Gambling Authority as a way of ensuring that our race can be held professionally, and able to secure funds in order to be successful,” he said.

He noted that the race was currently held on rugged and sandy terrain. However, he said they were in the process of improving the race track.

“We are working on the race to become part of the elite sport where outstanding horses and experienced jockeys can compete on a smooth track without obstacles. Our plan is to ensure that the race is held according to the international standards and that races are conducted by weight in accordance with the horse’s age, gender and race category,” he said

He said their race showcased the indigenous horses from Tshane and surrounding villages, adding that the breeds were near extinction and needed to be preserved for their strengths, agility and endurance.

“Our aim is to preserve our indigenous horses so that they are still available in future, as they are perfect for our climatic condition in our area,” he said.

Kgogobi therefore implored farmers to ensure that they preserve the breed so that the future generation can also utilise it. He said they had intentionally invited Department of Wildlife and National Parks to be present at the race, to assist in addressing issues of human-wildlife conflict that was bedeviling them.

Under 1000m Tswana breeds, Justify of jockey Mothusiemang Olebile garnered position one, followed by Porsche Screen of jockey Olebile Hiri and on third position, Terminator of jockey Mogapi Pasi.

The 1200 metres Tswana breed race category was won by Justify, followed by Terminator and thirdly, Go Black of jockey Tumo Katai. Under the Mule category, Thabang won position one, followed by Fish and Blasten.

The zero category Tswana horse race was scooped by English Boy of jockey Emmanuel Tlhase followed by Mental Case of jockey Thabang Leepile and thirdly, Voice Roll of jockey Esau Tlhage.

Position one category scooped P650, with position two earning P350 and third position getting P250 on these categories. ENDS