Online Reporter
Trust Khosa-Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Fun is in the air as perennial punters still carry high hopes of striking gold this time around.
The venue remains Borrowdale Race Course in Harare.
As expected, hordes of revellers and punters will be spoilt for choice as they hook up with friends.
Booze galore, great food and quality music will be shared tomorrow when the 66th Castle Tankard horse race roars to life.
The mammoth home-turf race festival, which has become a celebration of sport, betting and fun under one roof, hardly disappoints.
Running under the theme “Live It. Feel It. Share It,” regular attendees of this annual event can’t wait to set foot at the venue. In the afternoon, all the attention will be on punters trying their luck as 20 horses vie for honours. Those who understand this sport know where to place their bets.
What else can one expect, as event organisers—Delta Beverages—continue to raise the stakes for punters and runners?
Delta Corporation marketing director Irimayi Muzorewa recently assured attendees that they are set to meet regional standards.
“The prestige and passion draw elite horses, skilled jockeys and dedicated trainers from across the region to compete for a US$50,000 stake,” Muzorewa told journalists recently.
“Anticipation is already building as leading contenders prepare to chase one of the season’s most coveted trophies, which we are proud to be part of.”
After the afternoon showcase, attention will certainly shift to music. A star-studded line-up will once again alternate under one roof at the venue.
Led by sungura ace Alick Macheso, it really promises a fun-filled day, with Orchestra Mberikwazvo leading from the front.
To say Macheso is the major drawcard would be an understatement.
May torch-bearer—or simply father-figure aptly sums up the role Macheso will play as he leads an array of stars. Underrated yet talented Progress Chipfumo will also be making his debut at the festival. He has since promised fireworks as he returns the favour after this major recognition.
Red-hot female chanter Nisha Ts — Anisha Tashinga Shonhiwa — has been afforded yet another opportunity to shine even brighter.
After all, she is no stranger to big platforms, where she has dazzled fans with top-drawer performances.
Backed by an all-female backing band, Nisha Ts performs as if it’s her last day wherever she is invited to perform. Three Zimdancehall chanters — Madidiedo, Jah Master and Uncle Epaton — will also take part in the event. The trio, which recently competed in the Harare Cup Clash contest, is now used to bigger crowds. With Zimdancehall churning out a galaxy of stars in abundance, the trio’s inclusion is a triumph that proves the genre is in safe hands.
Largely appealing to young generations, the trio will be out to impress.
After all, the new crop of stars has been touring the sub-region, giving fans fun and leaving a lasting impression. However, it should be noted that this new crop of stars — who regularly tour Europe and SADC — will also come under the spotlight judging by their growing appeal.
Judging by the line-up, variety is guaranteed, covering both the old guard and the new school.
As it stands, Macheso will simply be there to put the icing on the cake, returning to his favourite hunting ground by public demand.
“I am only going there to give it all, and I am ever ready. It makes me happy to be sharing the stage with these youngsters, and I always learn from them.
“The trends are changing, and we are glad the music industry is the winner,” Macheso said ahead of tomorrow’s Castle Tankard horse race.
Mathew Masinge