Racing gives back on Mandela Day

It’s a date the has become synonymous with charity and giving back and the sport of horseracing was one of many organisations who committed themselves to making a difference on Mandela Day.

A rallying call was put out on social media in the build up to the day, which coincides with former president and worldwide icon Nelson Mandela’s birthday, and on Tuesday several representatives made their way to various horse care units around the country.

The Johannesburg team from Racing. It’s A Rush made their way to the Highveld Horse Care Unit in Meyerton while the staff from Port Elizabeth headed to the East Cape Horse Care Unit.

In Cape Town, staff from Kenilworth Racecourse made their way to the Thoroughbred Rehoming and Rescue Centre in Philippi.

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While the horseracing industry makes significant contributions throughout the year, Mandela Day was a chance for staff to be a bit more involved in the process as they did their 67 Minutes.

“It’s great to see the passion and enthusiasm from everyone involved.

“A big thank you to everyone involved for contributing not only through donations but by also giving up their time.

“It’s a small gesture that goes a long way in showing interest and passion from within the industry,” said Racing. It’s A Rush brand manager, Jenna Potgieter.

At the Highveld Horse Care Unit it meant the chance to get up close with with equines of all shapes and sizes, spoil them with carrots and apples and even involved painting of the stable block used for medical purposes.

The Highveld Horse Care Unit currently houses 70 animals with a mixture of breeds including, donkeys, and plays an active role in assisting horses retiring from racing to find new homes and pursue second careers.

As a breed, the thoroughbred has proved adept not only at racing but also in disciplines like showjumping, dressage, cross-country and polo.