This archive report was first published on 12 July 2019.
Teenage Horse Investors Take the Reins ¶
July 12, 2019
At just 17 and 18 years old, Mohamed Kishlaf and Tony Kuria are making waves in the horse racing industry. The two teenagers recently invested in the business, buying two horses at an auction for a combined Sh575,000.
According to Bruce Nightingale of Kenana Farm in Njoro, who was in charge of the sale, the auction was a success, with all 15 yearlings sold within minutes. The top-selling horse went for Sh660,000, while the lowest-priced filly fetched Sh150,000.
Mohamed and Tony, who have been riding professionally for four years, plan to train their horses and start racing them in March next year. They have already invested in a new barn that can accommodate 20 horses and hope to fill it soon.
The teenagers' love for horses has not only opened up job opportunities for them but also for others. They plan to hire jockeys and other workers to help them with their horses.
Joseph Muya, a seasoned horse breeder and owner, has also seen the positive impact of horse racing on employment. He has hired over 90 people, including trainers, sizers, vets, and jockeys, and has seen a significant change in the lives of those he has employed.
Research has shown that interacting with horses can have a therapeutic effect on people, particularly those struggling with trauma and substance abuse.
