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Harare Bureau
THE stable of defending Castle Tankard champion, Equina, are expecting a tough competition in this year’s race at Borrowdale Racecourse.

Stable trainer Amy Bronkhors believes the other horses will give Equina a tough ride.

The final acceptances for the race were revealed at Borrowdale Racecourse yesterday.

And, after reviewing the line-up for the iconic horse race, Bronkhors believes they will have a tougher challenge this year.

Fifteen runners were accepted for the 63rd edition of the country’s most prestigious horse race.

“We’re looking forward but it’s a tough field but, however, we’re going out there to win,” Bronkhors said.

Another trainer, Ghokhan Terzi, who had three entries in pre-race favourite Glorious Vet, Super Trouper, a hat-trick winner, as well as Rock the Country, said the race will be a tough one.

“We’ll give it our best,” Terzi said.

Delta Beverages general manager, Munyaradzi Nyandoroh, said they felt humbled to be part of the Castle Tankard.

“As the first ever sponsored horse race in Africa, the Castle Tankard remains a prestigious event in Zimbabwe.

“The event has left a formidable mark within our horse racing fraternity.”

Mashonaland Turf Club chairman Brian Black said the event had grown with each passing edition.

“In comparison to the inaugural 2,100 pounds in total stakes prize money, today’s $50,000 prize money makes an interesting parallel.

“That’s a reflection of the level of commitment that has gone into this race, a super brand in its own right.

“This is confirmation that we’re not looking back.

“I pay respect to Delta Beverages, our valued sponsors, for the association they afford us with the Premier Castle brand,” Black said.