In an effort to diversify the Eastern Cape’s reliance on the automotive sector, the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC) is looking at opportunities in horse-racing.
A recent agency-funded feasibility study looked at how horse-racing could be developed to grow the provincial economy.
Key findings showed that if the sector was developed, business opportunities would be created in h orse breeding, betting, racehorse ownership, training, jockey activity, sports tourism and leisure and associated industries.
ECDC CEO Sitembele Mase said two benefits of horse-racing were that it was labour intensive and had an extensive value chain.
“The feasibility report has specifically revealed the job creation prospects and business opportunities for the province. The value chain is extensive,” he said.
Mase said horse-racing in the UK and Australia were significant employers. In Australia, which has more than 300 race courses, the industry creates about 300 000 jobs, making it the third largest employer in the country. The UK has about 51 race courses and is the fourth largest employer.
The situation in South Africa, however, was very different and showed potential for growth.
“We have about 10 race courses but these numbers are in decline,” said Mase. “There are only two high-profile racing events a year, neither of which have international status .”
The only two tracks in the Eastern Cape – Arlington and Fairview – are both in Port Elizabeth.
Phindi Kema, a former Eastern Cape thoroughbred horse breeder who participated in the study, said they would look to use existing infrastructure in the province to build the industry. “I can’t say too much, but there is a deal on the table and we have received an offer from a property race course- owner to use a facility.”
However, she cautioned there were several challenges facing the province’s and country’s ability to hosting major international events, including the care needed when transporting horses across borders due to various diseases.
“Our quarantine capacity hinders growth and this needs to be addressed through government involvement,” she said.
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