The big day on the calendar of Eastern Cape rural horse racing is around the corner and could deliver the final judgement, writes HENK STEENKAMP.

Alle eyes will be on the mare Final Judgement that will be aiming to become the first horse to win the annual main championship race for the third time.

The rural race day will be held on 24th October in Kentani, close to Butterworth, in the heart of the East Cape rural area.

“There is a race meeting every month but this is the big one of the year,” Mahlubi Puzi, who is involved with the organization, said.

“Nine races will be part of the meeting which will be held for the 16th time. The three championship races will be run over distances of 1000, 1200 and 1400 meters,” he added.

“This is the meeting where the champions will be crowned. It is also the place where future champions are developed and we are very proud of our achievers.”

The apprentice jockey Phila Mxoli who is regularly riding at the Vaal track in Vereeniging these days is one of the products of rural racing.

Puzi said the organisers are working with the racing operator Phumelela and it’s East Cape manager Luciano Passerini to ensure a successful meeting.

Anyone that want more information about rural racing in the Eastern Cape can contact Puzi on 082 990 5591.