The Renewed Hope Horse Race Tournament has commenced in Kano on Wednesday, with organisers promising a historic and competitive three-day event featuring 20 races, cash prizes worth nearly N50 million, and seven brand-new cars.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the National Coordinator of the Horse Racing Federation of Nigeria, Alhaji Mustapha Abubakar Bidda, described Kano as a historic centre of horse racing in Nigeria, noting that the state’s racecourse has hosted competitions since the era of former Governor Audu Bako.
Bidda said the tournament, running from June 25 to 27, will feature races across various categories, including the Arewa local breed and Nigerian breed, which the federation was promoting and developing.
A major highlight of this year’s competition is the introduction of the starting gate, a globally recognised racing standard being used in Nigeria for the first time. According to Bidda, the innovation ensures fairness by allowing all horses to start simultaneously and positions Nigerian horse racing for international recognition.
He said the development demonstrates Nigeria’s growing stature in the global horse racing community and will enhance the sport’s credibility and competitiveness.
The tournament opened on Wednesday evening with several races already concluded, while more events were scheduled throughout the three-day competition.
