Kampala’s ultimate social gathering, the Royal Ascot Goat Races made their comeback and reclaimed their top spot on the social scene on Saturday.
After a six-year break, the event that used to be organised by tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia got renewed energy with daughter Sheena taking up the mantle in partnership with Tusker Malt Lager.
As is the tradition, the goat races are just a small facet of the event known for elaborate fashion displays and memorable partying.
The real fun was in the hospitality tents and the goat owners’ tent that was hosted by the Ruparelia family was the place to be. They went all out with an endless flow of food and all tribes of drinks on the house served by Speke Group of Hotels.
Kampala Casino in partnership with Johnnie Walker had the exclusive tent where Kampala’s high and mighty rubbed shoulders. But Johnnie Walker didn’t forget their growing clientele of mostly millennial yuppies and had another tent aptly called Malembe.
Silk Events being in charge of the event organisation had music from their tent blasting loud and clear but not to be drowned in all the noise, the event’s main sponsor Tusker Malt knew that silence is golden and went for a silent disco.
Those who made extra effort were rewarded, with the most stylish couple winning a return air ticket to Dubai. The best dressed male and best dressed female won a night for two at Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort and Serena Kigo respectively.
There were cash prizes for the winning goats but as the event has a charity facet to it, part of the proceeds went the benefit of the Tag Rugby Outreach programme that is held at Kyadondo Rugby Grounds every weekend.
The night ended on a high thanks to performances from Bebe Cool and Fik Fameica that left the crowds wildly excited before an elaborate fireworks display capped it all.
