Diani's goat derby pulls huge crowd

Some of the Participants during the Annual Diani Goat Derby event held on October 10, 2021. [Maaruf Mohamed, Standard]

Although goats have been well known in the country for their sumptuous rib chops, they are becoming popular for sports on Diani Beach.

This was evident on Sunday afternoon when goats in various colours pulled crowds from as far as Mombasa, Nairobi and Tanzania to watch a rare racing competition.

Revellers and adventure lovers were treated to a show where goats accompanied by jockeys ran against one another in various categories, including fast-paced hurdles that thrilled many guests.

Dressed in their finest coloured attires with writings to identify them, the goats raced as guests cheered, shouted and even took photos as they placed their donations during the 23rd Diani goat derby held at the Diamonds Leisure Beach and Golf Club, Kwale County.

An estimated 1000 people attended the event, dubbed the largest and most colourful derby in many years.

The goats had handlers behind them with brooms to ensure they ran fastest in the race.

It started with a long race, and the goats covered the hurdles.

The goats had undergone training to keep fit ahead of the race. The event was fun-filled as the goats appeared determined to outdo one another amid cheers from the crowd.

The winning goats were awarded, and apart from the goat derby, there was also a category of fashion show where guests showcased their attires.

Some couples also carried their lovers in a wheelbarrow in a rare public show of affection and fun.

The event was organized by the East Africa Women's League (EAWL) to raise money for charity in the country.

EAWL president Susie Edwards said the derby was one of the many events held by her association to support the less fortunate in society and described it as a huge success.

She said the 106-year-old league was founded to ensure women get more votes and take up leadership positions.

Some of the Participants during an annual Diani Goat derby. [Courtesy]

“This is among the many events that women from all over Kenya hold to support charity groups. We raise funds to help those not so fortunate like us- children and women,” she explained.

NCBA bank deputy director Mr James Kariuki said they support EAWL for whatever course for the needy.

“We are here to support charity. We support EAWL for whatever course to help the less fortunate in society,” he said.

A trader, Ms Lilian Thom, said they were happy business had improved after visitors flocked Diani Beach for the goat derby from Mombasa, Nairobi and even Tanzania.

“We have received plane-loads of guests from various parts of the country and Tanzania for this event in the past days, and business has been good,” she said.

A German tourist, Mr N Mark, said he has been on holiday with his wife for the past two weeks and was happy to have attended the goat derby.