• The proof in the pudding of this triumph is found in the ever-burgeoning number of patrons combined with the improved quality of racing as witnessed across the day, where traditional stalwarts were unseated by the smaller stables.
• Fundi said: “It’s a very unexplainable feeling, being the youngest and doing well. I don’t know what to say. I’m learning a lot, especially from Paul Kiarie who has been a mentor.”
Image: KABIR DHANJI
“It’s the vibe of Nairobi. It’s the place to be when the races are happening.”
On the first Saturday of racing in over 30 years, the 2023 Uhuru Cup left no doubt that horse racing is well and truly alive and flourishing in Kenya.
The proof in the pudding of this triumph is found in the ever-burgeoning number of patrons combined with the improved quality of racing as witnessed across the day, where traditional stalwarts were unseated by the smaller stables.
“As a kid, the horse races were the place to be every Sunday. After close to a 10-year sabbatical, I was back this Saturday for the Uhuru Cup and what an experience it was. Only one thing was familiar, the horses running around the track. The rest was a new sight,” said former Kenya Rugby international Charles Cardovillis.
“The grounds were filled to the rafters, with fans from across all age groups. The engagement and experience was top-notch, something I would be doing again as I encourage fans to come and experience. You will not be disappointed.
The quality of the racing and the event around it has concurrently seen a rise in fashion as a mainstay of what makes the day so attractive. International male model, Gabu Fords, thinks the races are the vogue of Nairobi’s fashion, “horses and fashion are always connected, and everyone looks stylish, with an African twist. It’s a legitimate fashion scene.”
Catherine Mumbi, one of Nairobi’s most up-and-coming lawyers, said she never misses a race since; “it’s the best Sunday plan and hangout. It’s fun, family-friendly and chill.”
Danny Munyi, the Programmes Director for Capital FM was also at the races as part of their partnership with horse racing, and exuberant with what he saw. “It’s the vibe of Nairobi and it’s the place to be when the races are happening. The crowd was awesome. They know what they want and how to have it. The
opportunity here is huge, especially for brands and sponsors. The growth is amazing,” said Munyi.
The races were an enthralling spectacle with close finishes and competitive times, buoyed by cheering crowds. Tony Kuria, Kenya’s youngest trainer in racing, took the day’s laurels with his charges winning three out of six races on the card, including the prestigious Uhuru Cup and the HV Pirie Kenya Guineas trial.
Kuria attributed his success to “the incredible horses under our care and a culmination of dedicated teamwork, unwavering commitment, and the cohesive
effort of an entire team tirelessly working behind the scenes that truly propels these victories.”
Kuria went on to acknowledge the “presence of the crowds is undeniably invaluable to the vitality and sustainability of the sport. Their enthusiasm and energy creates an atmosphere that fuels the entire race day as their presence plays an integral part to the racing community embodying the passion that drives the sport forward.”
The jockey riding for Kuria in the Uhuru Cup and HV Pirie, Michael Fundi, is also the youngest on the track. Speaking about his victories in two significant races against vastly experienced jockeys, Fundi said: “It’s a very unexplainable feeling, being the youngest and doing well. I don’t know what to say. I’m learning a lot, especially from Paul Kiarie who has been a mentor.”
Fundi also commented on the difference that the crowds make for him when he’s riding. “They give me great motivation, I can hear them. I know that all my friends come to watch me and are cheering, so I want to do well,” he added.
The other accolades for the day went to trainer J Karari, whose horses won two races and J Muya who locked out the last. The end of the races gave way to a magical Kenyan sunset and sundowners with an afterparty from Nairobi’s finest DJs playing long into the evening.