THE thunder of hooves, the roar of packed grandstands and the glamour that defines Zimbabwe’s biggest horse racing spectacle came alive at Borrowdale Park Racecourse, as Pocket Watch stamped his authority with a commanding victory in the 2026 Castle Tankard on Saturday.
The five-year-old gelding produced a polished performance in the prestigious 2 000 metre race as jockey Malesela Katjedi guided him to the finish line ahead of September Flower and Last One Standing in front of an electric crowd at the home of Zimbabwe horse racing.
Katjedi timed his run perfectly, guiding Pocket Watch to the finish line ahead of September Flower and Last One Standing in the country’s richest horse racing event.
The victory earned the winning connections a US$25 000 cheque to be shared among the owner, trainer, jockey and groomer Aunele Eyitime, whose preparation work played a key role in the triumph.
Pocket Watch’s victory earned his connections the winners’ cheque of US$25 000, while second-placed September Flower walked away with US$12 000 and Last One Standing pocketed US$7 000 for finishing third.
The 2026 edition of the Castle Tankard victory further strengthened Pocket Watch’s growing reputation on the local racing circuit. It was his second win in five outings and improved his overall career record to five wins and 12 placings.
For Mason, the Castle Tankard victory added another milestone to an impressive season, with the veteran trainer now boasting 12 wins from 70 runs.
Katjedi also celebrated a personal milestone, with the Castle Tankard triumph marking his first win from two rides this season.
The Castle Tankard once again lived up to its status as the crown jewel of Zimbabwean horse racing, attracting racing enthusiasts, fashion lovers and corporate guests for an afternoon of elite competition and entertainment at the country’s premier racing venue.
