Horseracing fans and the Okondjatu settlement’s business community are gearing up for the FNB July Handicap on Saturday at the Okahatjipara turf club, which is also home to the famed Professor Supporters Club.

This will be the ninth edition of the event formerly known as the Omaheke July Handicap sponsored by First National Bank (FNB), which has made significant investments in the event over the years.

The Professor Supporters Club has committed themselves to maintaining the FNB July Handicap’s distinctiveness, quality, and endurance while presenting one of the top horseracing events for its attendees.

Timo Mujeu, a member of the organising committee told Nampa on Wednesday that the event is one of the biggest sporting events on Namibia’s horseracing calendar and therefore they will strive to maintain its quality.

‘As Professors Supporter Club, we strive to maintain our quality and standard by providing our spectators with the best event possible, a standard that will be maintained for years to come,’ he
said, adding that all preparations are complete for the event to begin on Saturday.

According to Mujeu, 75 horses will compete in 17 races, including the Nambred and Import races. The organiser stressed that only registered jockeys will be permitted to ride horses at this event.

Over 3 000 people are expected to visit Okondjatu for the horseracing event, which Mujeu said also provides an opportunity for the business community to trade, market and sell their products, supporting the local economy.

Mujeu stated that the economic impact of the July Handicap weekend on Okondjatu and its vicinity is expected to be significant.

The event is made possible by FNB, which has allocated N.dollars 200 000 in prize money for the competition.

Visigoth, Starlile, French Leave, Time Master, La Luvia, Able Surprise, Chief Helmet, Imperial Ruby, Rose Willow, and Don Piero are among the domestic circuit’s household names who will compete for the grand prize of N.dollars 40 000.

Other wellknown horses scheduled for the eve
nt include Flowing River from Angermund Racing, as well as racing horses from Balabala Stables such as Colour of Hope and Talk to Me. Boma from Harambee Racing, Lady Diamond, Sunny Side, and Flowing River are all scheduled to compete on the day.

The gates open at 06h00, with the festivities beginning at 10h00.

Source: The Namibia News Agency