Hajia wins Independence Cup
Horse racing activities were last Saturday revived at the Accra Turf Club at Adjirigano with Hajia, a seven-year-old trotter, winning the historic Independence Day Celebration Championship to lift the coveted trophy and cash prize at stake.
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Under the guidance of skilful jockey, Ismaila Musah, Hajia beat the challenge of her strong contender, Sly Mongoose (ridden by E Charwey), to win the race in an impressive time of 1.45 seconds over a distance of 1200 metres.
It was first runner-up Sly Mongoose, that set the early pace after the official start of the race, opening a small lead away from second runner-up, Mr K (ridden by E A Adjetey) and Hajia. However, around 300 metres to the end, Hajia accelerated and overtook Sly Mongoose to cruise to that thrilling win.
A total of eight horses lined up for the prestigious competition which was staged in front of about 500 spectators and they included Yoobibioo (R Amoah), Fresh Boy (J Mensah), Copta (J Lamptey), I Thank God (E A Mensah) and Who is Free (S T Madu).
The second race of the day was also contested between six horses, namely Sea Never Dry (O Lamptey), Ghana’s Pride (I Sakyi), Zaza (E A Dery), Bonanza ( S T Madu) and Avaro (J Lamptey).
Sea Never Dry finished in a time of 1.30 seconds to be crowned winner of the second race, while Ghana’s Pride and Bonanza came second and third respectively in the race sponsored by Sunbet, a sports betting company, and Nationwide Mutual Healthcare, a private mutual health insurance scheme.
The last race saw Fire Jet, ridden by J Mensah, finishing tops after beating competition from Young Man (E A Ampah) and Korley Gonno Boy (D Kotey).
Speaking at the event, Honourable Edwin Nii Lantey Vanderpuye, who represented President John Mahama as the Special Guest of Honour, said he was elated that members of the club had revived horse racing in the country and called on corporate organisations and philanthropists to come on board to sponsor and promote the sport of kingst.
