The Not To Be Missed Kiwanis Charity Horse Race In Vanuatu

It's the biggest social event in the island nation of Vanuatu. It's the tropical version of the Melbourne Cup - the Kiwanis annual Charity Race Day. It stops the nation, as all roads (and free buses) lead to the unique race course, for eight heart stopping, lung yelling races.

The event attracts approximately 10,000 race goers from all over the world and is the commencement of the tiny nation's Independence celebrations. The race even attracts Aussie stewards and race callers. "Race day in Vanuatu beats Flemington's party atmosphere hands down", said one enthusiast.

Jockeys train fiercely to be the best of their ability. However, most of them have grown up riding only wild horses without bridles or helmets and most are bare foot. The race weekend commences with:

• A Gala Charity Ball Thursday 16th July 2009
• The Calcutta Dinner Friday Night 17th July 2009
• Finally Race Day on Saturday 18th July 2009

"I highly recommend attending every event, as a Port Vila race week survivor. It's a great way to meet the locals. It's also a fun way to raise funds for local schools", says Wendy Hargreaves.

Numerous locals and overseas visitors dress up in their top rigouts in the hope of winning prizes in the fashion parades, while other punters settle for shorts, shirt and thongs. The temperatures hover around the comfortable mid 20's. Of course if it has rained the night before you might have to sidestep the odd large patch of mud.

Punters are able to have place their bets on the eight races, at a tote operated by local bank clerks. Proceeds from the day assist local schools, who get very little assistance from the government.

A well known local personality, Peter Wilson, is race chairman and has been involved in the races since they started in 1985. All in the fun of a once-been-to-never-forgotten tropical island bush one-day charity horse race.


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Dr Wendy Stenberg-Tendys and her husband are CEO's of YouMe Support Foundation (http://youmesupport.org) providing high school education grants for children who are without hope. They would like to help you get a couple of tickets to the great event, the Kiwanis Race Day. Contact Wendy on admin@youmesupport.org. This offer is strictly limited.