Leribe, June 05 - Queen Masenate Mohato Bereng Seeiso has expressed gratitude to Linare for celebrating her birthday, describing the act as both the honour and privilege.

Speaking during the commemoration of her 30th anniversary held at the Linare Race Course in Hlotse on Sunday, the Queen commended Leribe Horse racing Committee for demonstrating that Leribe like the southern districts, also has horses. 

She noted that they have made her proud hence she thanked them for the presents especially the Linare blanket which she said has been her need for long.

She however challenged women to get involved in horse racing noting that she might bring her own horse in the next year event.

Speaking at the same occasion, the Minister of Gender, Youth, Sports and Recreation Mrs. Mathabiso Lepono congratulated the Queen for her birthday wishing her many more years. She said that she is the pride of Basotho and exemplary of a child well-brought up.

Mr. Lepono also thanked the Linare Horse Racing Committee for having such a beautiful vision of celebrating the Queen’s birthday through horse racing, iterating that sports bring people together regardless of their religion, politics or culture.

She further expressed gratitude to business companies such as the Standard Bank, Nedbank, and Boliba for financially supporting the event describing the move as the challenge to all business community for development of sports in the country.

In an interview with LENA, the Leribe Horse Raising Committee-chairperson, Mr. Pitso Manesa known as Chibase described the event a dream come true as they have long wanted to mark this day in the district.

He expressed his appreciation over the support shown by the Ministry of Sports and business companies noting that the next year's event is envisaged to be more successful.

The event which was funded by over M40 000, attracted horse riders from Mokhotlong to Mohale’s hoek, participating in about seven horse races.

The event was organized by the Leribe Horse Racing Committee in cooperation with the District Administration Office and the Ministry of Gender, Youth, Sports and Recreation.