By Desire Tshuma
HARARE – Borrowdale Racecourse is set to host the 66th Castle Tankard Saturday, in what promises to be one of the most open and competitive editions in recent memory.
Zimbabwe’s premier Grade One race will feature 18 horses whilst 20 were accepted going for the US$50,000 prize, marking the biggest lineup the event has seen in years. The contest, sponsored by Castle Lager under Delta Beverages, continues to hold its place as Africa’s longest-running sponsored horse race.
Champion trainer Debra Swanson returns as the trainer with the most runners, having nominated nine horses for the showpiece. She claimed last year’s race with Action Zone, a five-year-old gelding partnered by jockey Mathew Thackeray, and is now aiming to repeat that success.
“The competition will be tough this year, but our team is ready to put in a strong showing,” Swanson said. She noted that the larger field reflects renewed interest in the sport and credited Delta’s continued backing for keeping the industry afloat during challenging times. “Delta’s support has been consistent, and it allows us to keep going when resources are tight,” she added.
Trainer Thomas Mason, who has entered three horses, said the depth of this year’s field means no one can be discounted. “Action Zone has proven himself, so he’s definitely on our radar,” Mason said. “But with 20 horses in the gates, you have to treat every runner as a serious threat and race hard from the outset.”
Trainers Bridget Stidolph and Amy Parham have also each secured three places on the card, adding to the depth of competition.
Organisers have positioned this year’s Tankard as more than just a racing fixture. Alongside the on-track action, spectators can expect live performances from Sungura veteran Alick Macheso, alongside up-and-coming acts Nisha Ts and Ndunge Yut. The gates open at 11am and the festivities will continue into the evening, with no entry fee for attendees.
Castle Lager marketing manager Kundayi Mawema said the event represents the brand’s enduring connection to Zimbabwean sport and culture. “For over six decades, Castle Lager has supported the Tankard as a way of celebrating both competition and community,” Mawema said.
The 9 May meeting is expected to draw a large crowd to Borrowdale, combining elite horse racing with a day of music and social activity.
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