Adrenaline was in no short supply as young jockeys and thundering hooves lit up Khenana Mountain in Ndwedwe on Saturday.

Hosted by the iLembe Umtelebhelo Association, the event brought together families, friends and neighbours for a thrilling exhibition of traditional racing at Ozwathini.

Fifteen horses from Mandeni and Ndwedwe took part, racing in the traditional umtelebhelo style – a trotting run rather than the fast gallop seen in mainstream horse races. Horses from other parts of KZN also joined the contest, but the spotlight remained on the local entries.

Clouds of dust rose into the air as the horses charged forward, blending with cheers from the crowd to create an atmosphere of pure energy and excitement.

“This is only the beginning,” said association secretary Thandeka Khuzwayo.

“We want to take the races to all four corners of iLembe, from Ndwedwe to Maphumulo, Mandeni and KwaDukuza. It is about bringing people together and keeping this tradition alive.”

The local race proved especially thrilling, with Daluxolo Shangase riding Ndluzela to first place. Philani Zuma bagged second on Sorry, and Seluleko Mthembu took third on Bill. Anathi Zikhali finished fourth on Big Boy.

The association currently has nine members and 15 jockeys, aged between 15 and 30. Khuzwayo said they hope more young people, particularly from Maphumulo and KwaDukuza, will get involved.

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