NAIROBI, Feb. 17 (Xinhua) -- Ivy Wangu soaked in the spectacle as sleek horses grazed on manicured lawns before being led to the track for a race on Sunday in Nairobi, Kenya's capital.
Brimming with excitement, she joined fellow youths cheering as the horses thundered past, their strides matched by deafening applause from a diverse crowd spanning nationalities, races, genders, and creeds.
The race, marked by pomp, family gatherings, and networking, was held to welcome the Chinese Year of the Horse on Feb. 17, underscoring the growing popularity of the Spring Festival in Kenya.
"I enjoyed every minute here. The horses were energetic yet calm, and the race was very interesting to watch," Wangu said. "With 2026 being the Chinese Year of the Horse, I wish the Chinese community in Kenya all the best. It is fun to see how they express their culture."
Dressed elegantly and full of youthful energy, Wangu braved humid weather that later turned into heavy rain to attend the packed event at Ngong Racecourse, located in one of the capital's upscale suburbs.
She said the celebration reflected deepening Kenya-China ties across culture, economy, infrastructure, and sports.
"China has brought a lot of development to this country," Wangu noted, citing projects such as Raila Odinga International Stadium, along with highways and job opportunities. "I would like to interact more with Chinese people."
As spectators filled the terraces and others sampled food while backing their favorite horses, trained architect Ayuma Sunguti shared the moment with friends. She won a pink dress inspired by traditional Chinese attire and said that she is training to become a jockey, given her love for horses.
"I am so happy to be here; it is a lovely event. I am so grateful to interact with the Chinese people, their culture, and all they are doing for our country, especially when it comes to construction," Sunguti said, expressing thanks to the Chinese people's contribution to Kenya's economic progress.
"It is a good thing to see what the Chinese government and the Chinese community are doing, especially when it comes to infrastructure. We are happy they are celebrating their New Year and wish them all the best," Sunguti said.
She added that Kenyan communities could draw inspiration from their Chinese counterparts when it comes to prioritizing social bonds, entrepreneurial culture, work ethic, food, and costumes.
A carnival atmosphere swept across the green tracks and viewing stands as horse lovers cheered an animal many cultures associate with royalty.
Athman Ndonga, a horse owner and trainer, said the race was a fitting way to welcome the Chinese Year of the Horse, which in Chinese culture represents vigor, strength, and resilience.
Marking the Spring Festival with a high-profile race and large turnout highlighted the rising appeal of Chinese culture in Kenya, he added. ■