As anticipation builds for the upcoming Ma-sa Easter Cup Horse Racing event, organisers have revealed a series of new additions and developments aimed at elevating this year’s spectacle at Samedupi near Maun.
Event Manager of the Ma-sa Easter Cup and Marketing and Public Relations Manager at the Botswana Horse Racing Association, Tico Otukile, has said this year’s edition will introduce exciting firsts for both participants and spectators.
“We will be having three additional Thoroughbred races for the first time, 1100m, 1300m and 2000m,” Otukile said. “Secondly, we have reserved two Tswana races specifically for local competitors, from Makalamabedi Gate up to Kuke and Gudigwa.”
In a major development for the sport, Otukile also confirmed that starting gates will be used for the first time, marking a significant step toward modernising horse racing standards in Botswana.
While previous editions have attracted regional competitors, this year’s race will see a more focused international presence. “We will only be having Namibian participants this time around, with 19 horses already registered. Overall, we have about 70 registrations so far,” he noted.
Despite comparisons to the Premier Champions Cup, Otukile emphasized that both events remain equally significant on the racing calendar. “They differ, but not much. They are both big races the difference is not that significant,” he said.
Beyond the racetrack, the Ma-sa Easter Cup continues to position itself as an economic driver for the region. Otukile highlighted that the event is expected to boost the tourism sector through increased accommodation bookings in Maun, while also creating opportunities for local employment.
“Food caterers and other locals are employed both before and after the race at the venue. Small businesses also benefit through VIP tent bookings, toilets, skip hire, security, music and sound services,” he explained.
This year’s prize money is expected to reach P270,000, further reinforcing the event’s growing stature within Botswana’s horse racing scene.
To ensure strong public engagement, organisers are rolling out a comprehensive marketing strategy. “We are sharing information through social media and print media, and will also be doing activations in Gaborone and Maun,” said Otukile.
Otukile also welcomed continued government support, noting its importance in building confidence within the private sector.
“The government has already supported us by procuring starting gates for the association, and the Ministry of Sports attends all races. This kind of support brings confidence to private investors,” he added.
With new race categories, improved infrastructure, and strong regional participation, the Ma-sa Easter Cup is shaping up to be one of the standout sporting and social events of the Easter calendar.
