Africa-Press – Botswana. A delegation from Botswana’s Gambling Authority, Botswana Horse Racing Association (BHRA), and Botswana National Sports Commission (BNSC) recently visited Windhoek, Namibia, to inspect new horse racing start gates and attend the Spring Cup in Okahandja. The four-day visit, from September 24 to 27, aimed to gather expertise on modern starting gate technology as part of efforts to replace Botswana’s traditional rope barriers, which have long caused disputes over uneven starts.
Start gates are advanced mechanical barriers that release all horses simultaneously, ensuring fair starts and eliminating the risk of one horse gaining an advantage. The visit follows a July agreement between Botswana and Namibia’s gaming authorities to facilitate technology sharing in the horse racing sector.
A BHRA official noted that installing start gates at Botswana tracks could increase betting activity and attendance in Gaborone and Francistown, while creating jobs for riders and stable workers. The delegation studied operational and logistical aspects of Namibian races, observing crowd management, prize payouts, and event organisation.
On September 27, officials attended the Spring Cup, a high-energy event at Okahandja Racing featuring over 60 horses competing in 19 short sprints, with total prizes of N$211,000 (€10,413). Key races included the main thoroughbred event over 2,400 metres and the Nambred Elite Plate at 1,600 metres. Winners Katiti Komambo from Okahandja Racing and Pee Jay from Professor Supporters Club received trophies, medals, and jockey prizes. The event also featured live DJs and performances of Oviritje and Maxaisa music, keeping the crowd engaged.
Botswana officials took notes on best practices to enhance local events such as the Masa Easter Cup and Motokwe Champions Cup. Implementation of start gates in Botswana could begin in early 2026, starting with tests at a major derby. Fairer starts are expected to increase payouts for trainers and owners, covering expenses like feed and veterinary care, while boosting the overall appeal of horse racing.
BHRA, now affiliated with BNSC, continues to push for a national strategy to professionalise horse racing. Drawing on Namibia’s experience, the association aims to create jobs for riders, stable staff, and event support teams. With horse racing valued at P402 million (€24.3 million) nationally, leaders including Gambling Authority CEO Peter Kesitilwe and Sports Minister Jacob Kelebeng emphasise the sport’s role in economic growth, community engagement, and professional development.
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