The race for the CastleBet Cup is taking shape after the Namibia Horse Racing Association held the official draw on Thursday evening at the Palm Hotel.

The draw determined the starting positions for horses competing in the upcoming CastleBet Cup race meeting scheduled for 4 July.

The Namibia Horse Racing Association conducted the official draw on Thursday evening, setting the starting positions for horses across the various race categories ahead of the CastleBet Cup.

The draw gives competitors their positions as preparations continue towards race day.

The preliminary race programme features 19 races, bringing together horses, owners, trainers and racing stables from across Namibia. NHRA Public Relations Officer Chantelle Mouton spoke highly of their sponsors.

"We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to CastleBet for their continued support of horse racing in Namibia. Their sponsorship plays a vital role in helping us grow the sport and create opportunities for our owners, trainers and jockeys. We would also like to invite all Namibians to join us on the 4th of July for what promises to be an exciting day of competitive racing, entertainment and family fun. Come and witness some of the country's finest horses compete for the prestigious CastleBet Cup."

The main race of the day is the CastleBet Cup, a 2,200-metre event featuring some of the country's leading contenders.

The winner will receive the largest share of the N$50,000 prize purse.

With the draw complete, trainers and jockeys will now focus on final preparations ahead of race day.