The International Horse Racing competition, organized by the Kano Turf Club, reached its climax on Sunday as five horses emerged victorious in their respective categories, beating the competition to the finish line on the 1600 meters track.
Hundreds of spectators gathered at the Kano racecourse over the two-day event to witness their favorite horses in action, representing various regions including Niger Republic, Kano, Bauchi, Niger, Sokoto, and Kebbi.
In the Emir of Zazzau cup category, Inshallah, owned by Mohammed Jabo from Sokoto State, clinched victory, taking home the N300,000 prize money. The Etsu Nupe cup in the Naija breed category was won by Hanny, owned by Ibrahim Bandi from Kebbi.
Zabqa secured the N300,000 prize money and the Emir of Kano cup in the Arewa Nigeria Republic Open category. Lamido, from the stable of Alhaji Yusuf Bello from Niger Republic, claimed victory in the Gov. Abba Kabir-Yusuf cup under the Taloun open, while Nuclear, a horse from Burkina Faso, took home the Rabiu Kwankwaso cup.
Governor Abba Kabir-Yusuf of Kano State, represented by his Chief of Staff, Alhaji Shehu Sagagi, pledged to upgrade the racecourse to international standards and continue supporting the competition. He commended First Bank for its support and urged the bank to maintain its backing.
Alhaji Tajudeen Dantata, Chairman of Kano Turf Club, advocated for the renovation of the racecourse to attract more participants and generate additional revenue for the state. He also praised the participants for their sportsmanship.
Alhaji Abdullahi Ibrahim, Executive Director of First Bank Group, lauded the collaboration with the Kano Turf Club, emphasizing the bank’s longstanding commitment to promoting sports in Nigeria. He highlighted the bank’s aim to establish a legacy of excellence through partnerships and sponsorships in sports.
Horse racing has been a popular tradition in Kano since 1912, captivating fans across generations of residents.