The South African horseracing industry has rallied in support of the plight of horses in the drought stricken areas of the country and various sectors have come to the party to aid the cause and create awareness.
As South Africa continues to battle the worst drought in living memory in certain areas, many South Africans are coming up with innovative ways to bring relief to those affected.
In the past few days, two of these initiatives, Operation Hydrate and Project Hope Grass, have called on the public and companies to donate much needed water. They also called on homeowners to donate any cut grass for desperately needed animal feed.
Former PE-based jockey and passionate horsewoman, Tellytrack presenter Nadine Rapson, contacted the Sporting Post with a plea to spread the word and to call on those who were willing and able to assist.
‘There is a major problem with horses in drought areas over the country and initiatives have been started by horse lovers all over who have heard of their plight. The generosity shown by so many people has been amazing. I approached New Turf Carriers and they were wonderful, offering to transport over 400 bales of donated fodder free of charge from Cape Town to Bloemfontein,’ she said.
Well-known Cape farrier Robbie Miller is another man to have rallied to help and through him all farriers nationwide are donating the cost of a full set of shoes to the fund with the encouragement of their professional body, the SA Association of Professional Farriers.
‘‘We love our horses and they are the reason we can earn a living and have such pleasure out of enjoying related sports. I want to issue a challenge to interest groups and all people in racing to get involved,”said Robbie earlier.
Nadine Rapson added that Equi-Feeds have designated accounts for donations and they are helping organise transport as well of the food.
If you are able to assist in any way, please contact:
Nadine via email: [email protected] – or inbox her on Facebook to Nadine Low Ah Kee
or
Vanessa Jantjies at Equi- Feeds Durbanville on Tel: 021 975 1910
