In an atmosphere charged with excitement, music, and the rhythm of pounding hooves, the 65th edition of the Castle Tankard unfolded at Borrowdale Race Course on May 10, 2025, with a cinematic blend of high-stakes racing and celebratory spirit. The centrepiece of Zimbabwe’s horse racing calendar did not disappoint, as Action Zone, a five-year-old gelding many doubted could conquer the 2000m stretch, stormed past the finishing post to claim the crown in spectacular style.
This victory was not only a personal triumph for owner Craig Danckwerts and trainer Tom Mason but a profound chapter in Zimbabwe’s long and evolving horse racing story. The doubters questioned Action Zone’s stamina, with many noting that his previous wins came in races no longer than 1700m. But on the country’s biggest racing stage, he silenced all skepticism. Jockey Mathew Thackeray delivered a performance of timing and composure, guiding the son of Canford Cliffs (IRE) with strategic precision. With Jaeger Moon bearing down fast and conceding 4kgs, the final stretch was a masterclass in racecraft.
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For trainer Tom Mason, it was a repeat of glory. Having trained True Beauty to victory in 2022, Mason now joins the elite ranks of multiple Castle Tankard-winning trainers. His journey from assistant trainer to dominant force is emblematic of the evolution of Zimbabwe’s turf talent, quiet determination meeting historic opportunity.
But beyond the rails and the thunder of hooves, Castle Tankard 2025 represented something much greater than a horse race. It is the oldest sponsored horse race in Africa and the only Grade One event on Zimbabwe’s calendar. It’s a cultural institution. It’s a festival. And more than anything, it is a celebration of resilience, elegance, and tradition.
From 11 AM to sunset, Borrowdale transformed into a vibrant mosaic of Zimbabwean life. Music poured from the stage as Castle Lager flowed through ice-chilled glasses. Food vendors, fashion statements, and laughter turned the turf into a national amphitheatre. Alick Macheso, arguably Zimbabwe’s greatest sungura export, set the tone for an afternoon of electrifying performances. Enzo Ishall, Delroy Shewe, Nisha T, and Chillspot Family ignited the youthful flame, while breakout artist Oriyano stepped onto one of the biggest stages of his life, marking a symbolic torch-passing moment in the entertainment sphere.
This combination of culture and sport is no accident. It’s the result of deliberate, long-standing corporate partnership between Delta Beverages and the Mashonaland Turf Club. As Marketing Director Irimayi Muzorewa aptly put it, the Tankard is a legacy event that showcases “consistency, commitment, and shared passion.” Their investment in sport is an investment in national pride, social cohesion, and creative industry.
What also stood out this year was the strong emphasis on responsible drinking. Delta Beverages and its partners went beyond festivities to actively encourage safe alcohol consumption, especially considering the scale and diversity of the crowd. Security and hospitality staff could be seen guiding patrons, and responsible drinking messages were displayed throughout the venue.
In an interview with Positive Eye News, eventgoer Tsitsi Mupfumi said, “It’s great to see that even as we enjoy ourselves, there’s messaging everywhere reminding us to drink responsibly. I saw age checks at the bar and designated driver tags. That’s important, especially for a day like this.”
Another attendee, Tendai Mudzamiri, echoed similar sentiments: “I came with my older brother, and he decided to be the designated driver today. It’s good that Castle is reminding us that fun shouldn’t turn into tragedy. We don’t need to drink and drive to have a good time.”
Indeed, age restrictions were enforced at all bar points, with patrons required to produce IDs before being served alcohol. Underage drinking was strictly prohibited, and awareness campaigns targeting youth were visible in form of banners and announcements. The organizers ensured that entertainment and refreshments were inclusive, providing non-alcoholic options and water stations for families and designated drivers.
Delta Beverages, as part of its “Come Together Responsibly” campaign, also distributed branded merchandise promoting sober driving and safety first. It was a clear indication that the event, while festive and spirited, did not compromise on public health and safety principles.
What sets the Castle Tankard apart is its ability to unite Zimbabwe across class, age, and region. It is as much a family day out as it is a proving ground for world-class horses. It offers a rare stage where sport, business, entertainment, and heritage meet. And in 2025, that stage grew even brighter. The event reinforced its role in Zimbabwe’s social ecosystem, not just as an annual spectacle, but as a deeply cultural, economically beneficial, and symbolically potent moment on the calendar.
As the sun dipped behind the trees of Borrowdale and Action Zone was led to the winner’s circle, one thing became clear: this was more than a race. It was history in motion, and Zimbabwe, with all her challenges and triumphs, galloped proudly beside it.
