Seabata Mahao
A new horse- racing competition by the Radebe Foundation will take place on Moshoeshoe’s Day in Peka, Leribe this year.
The horse racing event dubbed Moshoeshoe’s Day Horse Racing aims to revive the cultural heritage of Basotho and remind them of where they come from. The foundation has pledged M300 000 towards organisation of the race.
Radebe Foundation is a Lesotho based organisation committed to cultivating a thriving and resilient community in Liphakoeng, Leribe. Their primary focus lies in addressing fundamental needs and enhancing accessibility to essential services and infrastructure.
The chairperson of the Radebe Foundation, Lebo Radebe told Newsday Sports that the race is inspired by king Moshoeshoe I and Basotho who rode horses as a means of transport, making horse-riding part of Basotho’s heritage.
“With the evolution of horse racing, Radebe foundation seeks to re-elevate the golden sport to an international level. Lesotho needs to be renowned as a destination for a world class horse racing contest,” Radebe said.
He further highlighted that the foundation believes horse-racing is a multi-million sporting activity, but is unfortunately neglected in Lesotho.
“This situation has forced the equestrians to search for greener pasturesin neighbouring countries. This great event will provide the Radebe Foundation an opportunity to make horse racing a top calendar event in Lesotho.”
Going forward, the foundation aims to build a top tier race course within the next two years, with the aim of capacitating local riders with skills to breed the best quality horses. It is also stated that the foundation is planning to open a horses’ veterinary clinic.
Khalanyane Lehora, the president of the Equestrians Association of Lesotho (EAL), indicated that the event is dedicated towards the development of sports in Lesotho.
“The M300, 000 which the foundation has pledged is a huge stretch from our usual limited prizes at around a maximum of M5, 000. Lesotho jockeys who have taken part at South African popular horse races such as the Durban July Polo and Tanti Horse Race have bestowed great performances,” he stated.
Lehora noted that through the race, Basotho will be able to return the favour and host their foreign counterpart.
The race is also expected to unite Lesotho and South Africa’s horse racing clubs, strengthening and uniting Lesotho’s own horse racing clubs.
