KananeloMokhele
A fusion of sporting excellence and glamorous fashion recently came alive as the Moshoeshoe’s Day Horse Race took centre stage at the Peka Race Course.
Sponsored by the Ramela Foundation, the annual spectacle has rapidly grown into one of the country’s most vibrant cultural and sporting highlights as it attracted crowds from across Lesotho and beyond.
Among notable prominent figures in attendance were King Letsie III, Prime Minister Samuel Matekane, and Bishop David Ramela, of Ramela Foundation among others.
Held as part of Moshoeshoe’s Day celebrations, the event honours the enduring legacy of King Moshoeshoe I, while showcasing the deep-rooted connection between Basotho people and horses.
Although only introduced in recent years, the Peka Horse Race has quickly established itself as a major attraction, attracting riders from across Lesotho and neighbouring countries.
The event not only promotes tourism and unity but also contributes to local economic activity, with vendors, spectators and cultural enthusiasts gathering in large numbers.
This year’s edition stood out for its blend of glamour, tradition and inclusivity, with increasing participation from women riders, reflecting a progressive shift in the sport. Beyond competition, the race continues to serve as a celebration of Basotho identity and pride.
Among the standout participants were three horses from Qacha’s Nek, Thethankosi, Lesupatsela and Lechaena, competing in the second edition of the Ramela Foundation Moshoeshoe’s Day Horse Race.
Lechaena delivered a commendable performance, securing third place in Race No. 6 and finishing fifth in Race No. 7. Lesupatsela also impressed by clinching fourth position in Race No. 5, marking a significant milestone for the team.
Speaking in an interview, horse owner Mr. MotlatsiPheku described the results as a breakthrough moment.
“For us, this is a huge win. With the right investment, especially in experienced jockeys, we believe we can reach position one,” he said.
Mr. Pheku emphasised the importance of technical expertise in racing, particularly the critical role of a strong start.
“We really have to invest in our jockeys because they should understand the concept of horse departure, which gives each horse an opportunity to be number one,” he added.
He further noted that the team’s steady improvement is encouraging, especially as this marks their first notable success at the prestigious event.
Summary
- A fusion of sporting excellence and glamorous fashion recently came alive as the Moshoeshoe’s Day Horse Race took centre stage at the Peka Race Course.
- Among the standout participants were three horses from Qacha’s Nek, Thethankosi, Lesupatsela and Lechaena, competing in the second edition of the Ramela Foundation Moshoeshoe’s Day Horse Race.
- “We really have to invest in our jockeys because they should understand the concept of horse departure, which gives each horse an opportunity to be number one,” he added.
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