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On Saturday, the Casa-Anfa racecourse hosted the third and final day of the African Grand Prix (GPA), the annual event that brings together African horse racing and lotteries. With eight races on the program, including the prestigious Grand Prix d’Afrique, this fourth edition, organized for the first time in Casablanca after three successful editions in Marrakech, delivered both excitement and high-level competition.
Organized by Morocco's Royal Society for the Encouragement of the Horse (SOREC) and the African Lotteries Association (ALA), this race day opened with the SOREC Prix, won by Omar Lakjal on Lity Hiro.
SOREC. / Ph. Said Mrigua
The momentum continued with the PMU Prize, which went to Kacem Faddoul on Boltril. The third race, the Premier Gateway International, brought another victory for Omar Lakjal, this time on Djerza Maamora. «Honestly, I feel great to win my second race on such a big day. This is a big victory for me», he told Yabiladi after lifting his second trophy.
The Grand Prix d’Afrique: A showcase of skill and spirit
In the fourth race, the Fraternité Africaine, the win went to another Faddoul, this time Abderrahim, riding Dunapolis. The highlight of the day, the Grand Prix d’Afrique, was fiercely claimed by Zouhair Madihi on Casa de Campo. «It’s a beautiful day, with great races and excellent organization. I’m very happy with this victory. You know it’s not just about the jockeys—many people put in a lot of effort, trainers and everyone working behind the scenes», he said after stepping off the podium.
SOREC. / Ph. Said Mrigua
Minutes later came the Cité du Cheval Prize, won by Khalid Jbilou on Iron Fal. The ALA Race followed, claimed by Redouane Bendia on Ejlale. Attending the event, the head of the Senegalese National Lotteries (LONASE), Toussaint Manga, said the Grand Prix d’Afrique is «a pride for Africa». He added: «We have seen that Morocco has made great efforts to ensure better organization of these races».
Young jockeys in the spotlight
The day concluded with the Ecoles des Jockeys Prize, featuring apprentice jockeys from Mauritania, Mali, and Senegal, who had benefited from a six-day training course with the SOREC Academy ahead of the race. The win went to young Mauritanian rider Mohamed El Mamy, first across the line on Ortens. Speaking to Yabiladi after the race, he said: «An amazing victory, and I owe it all to SOREC, who taught us how to ride».
SOREC. / Ph. Said Mrigua
Closing the event, SOREC’s General Director, Omar Skalli, told Yabiladi: «Horse races are broadcast live in several African countries and are known worldwide. Until now, the races in Marrakech were the reference, but today Casablanca is hosting them as well. People used to watch them on screen, and now they can see them live and worldwide».
In addition to the eight horse races, this edition of the Grand Prix d’Afrique also featured an exhibition for horse and lottery professionals, along with a full day of seminars exploring how African lotteries can better connect with their customers.
