In line with its objectives of continually growing traditional horse racing, the Department of Sport and Recreation will once again be hosting the annual Sisonke Summer Cup Horse riding this Saturday, 23 November, at Kilimon Sports Ground at Edazini area near Underberg.
The Sisonke race, which always takes place just before the start of the festive season, is similar to the now popular Dundee July Traditional Horse Racing event, though still smaller in scale. It is hosted by the department in partnership with the Sisonke District Municipality and the Ingwe Local Municipality which ensures that the venue and other logistics are in place.
Like the Dundee July, the southern chapter of the race is a tripling race as opposed to a galloping race. Traditional Horse racing is also unique in that the riders (jockeys) and racing horses are drawn from local villages. The competition is open to horse owners from all 11 municipal districts.
There will be 6 races of different grades. The races are scheduled to start at 10h00 and continue until 16h00, with intervals of entertainment in between. Participating horses have been pre-selected. Entry for the spectators is free.
The race is very popular among local residents. It also attracts high profile guests such as MECs, Mayors, Deputy Mayors, councillors, senior government and municipals officials, as well as other dignitaries representing the sponsors.
In addition to the Department of Sport and Recreation, the Sisonke District Municipality and the Ingwe Local Municipality, the other partners are Gold Circle, Trotting South Africa, Coastal Horse Care Unit, the Department of Arts and Culture, the Department of Transport and Love Life.
For more information:
Mr Sandile Qwabe
Cell: 078 169 4063
