Reviewed by Praise Dumi DhlakamaZimbabwe sports betting writer
Published 3 August 2026
Borrowdale Park remains the beating centre of Zimbabwean horse racing as the Mashonaland Turf Club rolls on with its 2026 programme in Harare. The historic club, the country’s sole racing operator, keeps the sport alive with regular meetings for local owners, trainers and punters. Its calendar gives the racing community something to look forward to each month.
The season’s showpiece has already been run. The 66th Castle Tankard, staged in May over a US$50,000 stake, brought elite horses and top jockeys to Borrowdale and drew a big crowd, with live music adding to the occasion. Musician Alick Macheso featured among the entertainment. That meeting set the tone for the months that followed.
Attention now sits on the middle of the campaign. The Mashonaland Turf Club stages fixtures roughly every few weeks, with cards of up to eight races, and the classic generation is building toward the Zimbabwe Derby, the final leg of the local Triple Crown over 2400m for three year olds. Fillies also have their own feature races through the year.
Racing in Zimbabwe has faced real economic pressure, yet Borrowdale keeps going through the commitment of its horsemen and loyal regulars. Every meeting is a small win for a proud club founded back in 1892. Prize money remains modest by regional standards, but the passion is real. Fans hope steady fields and fresh investment can carry the sport forward.
Where to bet: Zimbabwean racing fans can bet on Borrowdale Park cards at licensed local bookmakers such as Africabet and Betway, with markets settled in USD. Compare win, place and each way prices before every race. 18+. Gamble responsibly.
