Jockeys, trainers to be rewarded

There will be a get-together this Sunday to present awards in several categories for top achievers of the 2010 horse racing season.

Top jockeys, apprentices, sprinters, trainers, most improved young riders and owners will be rewarded at the ceremony which starts at 6.00pm at the Jockey Club.

Meanwhile, a photo finish camera has been donated to the Jockey Club by Gold Circle and is already in operation. Judges were given some stiff tasks deciphering short-head finishes in the past and the technological advancement is a major shot in the arm for Kenyan racing.

Holding Sh350,000 in pledges, the OBTS is keen to accept advise as to whether to plant hedges instead of rails, or service starting stalls with comfortable padding. The bathrooms at the Ngong Racecourse are currently under renovation to accommodate larger crowds at the venue.

On the track this Sunday, meanwhile, Nur Nuno could fire two arrows in an attempt to burst Martial Art’s bubble in the Jockey Club Stakes, round five of George Drew’s Challenge Series. Nuno has previous Derby striker Silverdale and St. Leger winner Chilulu in the mix.

It is a very serious finale with Kenya Airways and other major sponsors stepping in to make an indelible splash. Ibrahim Wachira’s disappointment of being sidelined after a horrific crash on Armstrong’s Girl in the Sales Race was punctuated by his being so close to handling the Championship title before disaster struck.

Fell awkwardly

Wachira fractured his ankle when Armstrong’s Girl was about to win the race. Suddenly hitting the front, Armstrong’s Girl tried to climb the stand-side railings, allowing Fair And Square (Lesley Sercombe) an easy passage to glory.

Wachira fell awkwardly and was rushed to hospital while his steed had stitches administered to open wounds. No blame was apportioned any of the other competing horses, but it was drama at its most gruesome for spectators in close proximity.

Readers will remember Wachira being assaulted by thugs at the close of last season when they slashed his pelvis. Again, then Wachira was close to seizing the Championship.