There is an Italian link in the passion for horses that unites Kenya and our country and is reflected in the only racecourse in East and Sub-Saharan Africa (only in South Africa are there others) which is the 'Ngong Racecourse' in Nairobi, that is now becoming quite popular with residents and tourists, giving them a chance to see something quite unique for East and Central Africa. .
This link bears the name of one of the Italian coffee pioneers, Aldo Soprani, after whom the Trophy, staged next 17 March at the capital's racecourse, is named.
This will be a special Sunday for many fans, families and those who are still unfamiliar with the historic racecourse on Ngong Road, which was inaugurated in 1954 when it replaced the old Kariokor racecourse in the city centre and also added a 9-hole golf course, which even today provides an extra opportunity for entertainment.
But the history of horse racing in Kenya goes back as far as the arrival of the first Europeans on the coast. It is said that the first equestrian competition was organised in Malindi, when Sheikh Sheikh al-Bauri, organised a racing event to entertain Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama in 1498. However, the first recorded racing meeting took place in Machakos in 1839, while in Nairobi, racing began in the early 1900s.

For the past two years, thanks also to the new management by the 'Kivuli Creative' company, interest in the sport has grown exponentially, and participation in the races scheduled throughout the year (every fortnight) has also increased, not only for the insiders, horse owners, younger and younger jockeys and Kenyans, but also for spectators. Horse racing has become a very popular fashion centre in Nairobi which echoes the international reputation for racing to be at the centre of this fashion.
In fact, the public is involved not only by the competitions, but also by the whole outdoors, in the green and in a relaxing dimension, far from the chaotic Nairobi of the working week. There are those who book their place and table months in advance and those who repeat their superstitious rituals each time, there are businessmen and companies of friends, foreign residents and local couples with their children. A scene that highlights the multiethnic and harmonious nature of Nairobi.
With music, food, drinks, children's areas with various entertainment, markets with small Kenyan exhibitors (to give them a showcase for products and creativity) every Sunday becomes an event, in a healthy, wholesome environment suitable for families, young people and retirees. After the races there is also music, sundowners, and drinks followed with an afterparty that goes till late
One cannot overlook another great passion shared by Kenyans and Italians, that of betting. As horse racing is one of the most historically related sports, it obviously also attracts those who want to enjoy it.
But apart from hardened gamblers, or stable owners such as Lord and Lady Spencer, anyone can try their luck or simply enjoy a bit of suspense or to compete with friends, and can do so at affordable prices. 
Just like the admission tickets to enter the facility, betting on horses also starts from affordable amounts for everyone, because Kivuli Creative's goal is to bring out the desire to share a cheerful day among friends, why not, maybe even winning something. 
The first appointment to get enthusiastic or simply to experience a different and fun day is therefore for next Sunday, for the 'Soprani' trophy.

Upcoming events at Ngong Racecourse:

07 April The Delamere Gold Vase

21 April The Kenya Derby

05 May The Kenya Oaks 

19 May The Champagne Stakes

09 Jun The Kenya St Leger

23 Jun The Civil Service Gold Cup

14 Jul The Stewards' Cup

28 Jul The JCK/ Ali Bin Salim Day of Champions

Kivuli Creative also offers companies and individuals the opportunity to become partners or sponsors of the racecourse's initiatives, with the possibility of creating ad hoc events with prizes, trophies or dedicated days. For those interested in this kind of proposal, please contact Kivuli Creative 0703 548854, email production@kivulicreative.com, https://www.instagram.com/jockeyclubke/ 

Photo Courtesy Kivuli Creative