08 Feb 2017

The chief organiser of Mascom National Derby, Charlie Mabua says the event still remains very close to the hearts of Maun residents and Batswana at large as
it brings excitement to the tourism hub.

In an interview, Mabua said the popular race gives the locals an opportunity to compete with their counterparts from neighbouring countries, while on the other hand, benefit small business communities.

Also, he noted that the race, which had been in existence since 2006 and held over the Easter holidays, grow bigger every year and bring thousands of visitors to Maun.

Mabua explained that this year’s event has attracted a lot of attention across the country and outside borders, noting that they could not accommodate all the countries that showed interest to participate because of limited resources.

The event is slated for April 15 at Shashe horse track and the locals will have the opportunity to watch a tough battle between the local horse riders and their counterparts from countries such as Namibia and Lesotho.

Mabua mentioned other countries which showed interest such as Swaziland, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Angola, South Africa but stated that they could not accommodate them as they do not have enough sponsors.

The locals who will participate come from regions such as Tuli Block, Barolong Farms, Palapye, Gaborone,  Charleshill, Maun, Sehithwa just to mention a few.

He thanked Mascom Wireless, which is the major sponsor for its commitment towards development of sport in the country.

He said the company was their lifetime partner, noting that almost every year, they increase the sponsor by 15 per cent.

Mabua appreciated Mascom’s support in the growth of the race since its inception, adding that the number of horses, which participated were evidence to the event’s growth.

Meanwhile, Mabua could not reveal the number of horses that will participate this year as registration is still on going.

He said registration started last year December until this month. ENDS