It always rains at the Berlin November.
Nothing could dampen the spirits at the 10th annual traditional horse racing showcase in Ntabozuko on Saturday, as thousands of guests dressed to theme braved the wet, squelchy conditions for the bespoke Eastern Cape event.
The large grassy track and field had been transformed into a colourful mix of corporate banners, tight security and an impressive technical two-stage venue, with various VIP tents to keep guests out of the rain.
Berlin November founder Luthando Bara was elated and excited, despite the weather.
“The rain has now become part of this event, so we just plan for it, but it doesn’t dampen the spirit.
“This milestone of 10 years is just as important as the journey. Ten years is not child’s play.
“We have developed something that was originally not very well-respected and we’ve now developed a product out of traditional horse racing that takes place in rural areas.
“We are already looking forward to our 11th year.”
Sports, arts and culture minister Zizi Kodwa said: “[This event has made] significant strides from when it first started.
“If you look back, [it was] quite small. Now it’s become one of the national flagship events”.
“This is a 10th year and traditional horse racing is very important for the local economy.
“I’ve been to this race many times before, I’ve seen the opportunities.
“I look forward to getting some updates in terms of the economic impact to the economy of the city as well as the hosting area, Ntabozuko — it must also improve through the economic impact of hosting the event,” Kodwa said.
Performers and artists included Somizi Mhlongo, who hopped onto stage and addressed the crowd in the evening as the rain eased, the award-winning Vusi Nova, Mörda, the Jaziel Brothers, Azana, Zuko SA, Nkosazana Daughter, Dato Seiko, Big Xhosa, 047, and Umhlobo Wenene presenters Pastor Nozewu and Yarees.
Eastern Cape legislature deputy speaker Mlibo Qoboshiyane said: “This is 10 years of a good journey, an R8.4bn contribution to the GDP of the province.
“This is a huge event. It’s really an Eastern Cape signature moment.”
Local fashion designers brought their isiXhosa creations, funky leather shoes and one-of-a-kind fabrics.
Mrs BCMM 2023 Ayakha Mgqibi, who was attending the event for the second time, said: “This platform is exciting to be a part of.
“I’m looking forward to this year’s line-up and the people coming, it’s packed.
“I’m looking forward to rubbing shoulders with the big [names].”
But before some of SA’s hottest musical acts would hit the stage to celebrate the theme “Dance of the decade” — were the races.
In the afternoon under cloudy skies, seven races of varying categories had crowds whistling, cheering and running to the finish line — police often had to wave their arms and shout to clear the way for the impending clatter of hooves.
Boys as young as eight in the Amahashe oKwelo category — won by Ayabonga Hlali — whipped through the shorter distances.
Before the races, every horse was inspected by the NSPCA from the Buffalo City Metro, Qonce and Amahlati, who continued to monitor the event and the animals’ safety.
The SPCA East London Facebook page shared a post which stated: “All aspects of each race, from start to finish, were manned and controlled by members ...The necessary warnings were issued with regard to transportation and other welfare issues.”
The final “Wafa-Wafa” race was a frenzy of celebration when thoroughbred Konakelephi, ridden by jockey Sandile Xoza, took first prize.
In doing so, the horse owned by Ndevana’s Lopez Magongo defended its title for the second year running, winning R100,000.
Magongo, who was enveloped by the crowd, his luminous green cap a marker in the fray, told the Dispatch he was “overjoyed and overwhelmed” and happy.
Eastern Cape premier Oscar Mabuyane was in good spirits, enjoying the atmosphere in the Prime Lounge which he described as electrifying.
“I’m quite excited to see people enjoying themselves, people are glowing, it’s excellent,” he said.
“This event is growing in leaps and bounds — it’s going to be our hotspot [venue] for entertainment, not only the Berlin November but moving forward we will be hosting a lot of events here, it’s a big moment for our province.”
Buffalo City Metro spokesperson Samkelo Ngwenya said: “For us as a city the Berlin November is more than just a signature event that marks the beginning of the festive season and sets the tone for summer.
“It signifies hope and growth potential to the community of Ntabozuko and surrounding villages.”
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