PUNTERS will have their first opportunity to bet on a showjumping event at Kenilworth Racecourse this Saturday, 13th August.

In addition to the running of two Grade 3 races - the Final Fling and the Champagne Stakes - the Western Province Horse Society has sponsored the raceday and will raise funds for hosting this year’s National Children’s and Junior Equestrian Youth Festival in December.

The Six Bar Showjumping Challenge is carded as the 10th race on Saturday, and Saftote will be offering Win and Trifecta bets on the event. Two qualifying rounds have already been held to determine the final field of 12.

The international showjumping course builder, Paul Garlicki, will erect 6 fences which will be placed in a straight line, between 10 and 11 metres apart. The heights will start at 1 metre, and will be raised for the jumpers who go clear. Those not clearing the jumps will be eliminated, until a winner is declared.

The event promises to be an exciting one for spectators and for punters who want to try their hand at this new concept.